Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes, July 1, 2026.— The Universidad Panamericana Aguascalientes campus experienced a day brimming with talent, creativity, and enthusiasm with the holding of UP TALENT 2026, the university arts competition that brought together more than 110 participants and 1,200 attendees, cementing its place as one of the most iconic cultural events in university life.
In this edition, the stage welcomed representatives from three categories: high schools, current UP students, and UPalumni and staff, who participated in the disciplines of singing, performance, and ensemble, demonstrating the high artistic level that characterizes the university community and the invited institutions.
The high school talent that marked the beginning
The High School category brought together students from schools such as Colegio Triana, Real de San Luis, Lomas del Real, and Iuventus, who gave performances brimming with creativity, technical skill, and passion.
Through singing, performance, and musical ensembles, the participants showcased the artistic talent that characterizes the younger generations, putting on a high-quality show.
In the singing category, Mía Álvarez took first place, followed by Mariana Nieto in second place and Valeria Malacara in third place. The performance category was won by Geraldine Hernández, followed by Natalia Archundia and, finally, Andrea Jiménez.
In the ensemble category, first place went to BULLETS; second place went to NOVAKANE; and MOTHMOUTH took third place.
In the Special Awards category, BULLETS received the award for Best Concept; Geraldine Hernández won the award for Best Image, while Natalia Archundia was honored with the award for Best Audience Response.
The UP community showcased its talent on stage
Students from the School of Performing Arts ( Universidad Panamericana ) took center stage in one of the event’s most anticipated categories, with musical and theatrical performances that showcased creativity, discipline, and teamwork. First place in the singing category went to María Fernanda Rojo; second place was shared by Mariana Guerra, Ana Camila Gallos, and Goretti Calvillo; and Jacqueline Hernández took third place.
In the performance category, Katia Fragozo took first place, followed by Sebastián Ponce in second place and Diego Mendevil in third.
In the ensemble category, STARLET FEMMES took first place. Second place went to CIGARROS SUELTOS, and third place went to AFTER EN MI CASA.
In the special awards category, STARLET FEMMES was honored for Best Concept, CIGARROS SUELTOS received the award for Best Visuals, and AFTER EN MI CASA was recognized for Best Audience Response.
Alumni and staff shared their passion for art
The category of Alumni and Staff category demonstrated that artistic talent extends beyond the college years. Through musical performances and ensembles, the participants shared their experience and passion for the stage.
In the singing/performance category, Andrea Mancha took first place, followed by Víctor Álvarez Pato in second place and Emmanuel and Rafael Villalpando in third place.
MARTÍN QUEMÓ UNA CUERDA took first place in the ensemble category; LOS ESTRENGERTINGS took second place; and AMIGOS DE HAKUNA took third place.
The performances were evaluated by a jury composed of renowned specialists in the fields of the arts and communication: Salo Loyo, Oscar Zalazar, Alex Flores, Lulú Tafoya, Mónica Holague, Adalya Puente, Ángel López, and Edna Navar, who recognized the participants’ interpretive skills, creativity, and stage presence.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of staff, students, and participants, this year's event established itself as one of the most representative artistic gatherings of the university community.
UP TEMPO made its long-awaited debut
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the official debut of UP TEMPO, the new pop-rock band representing the Aguascalientes campus of the Universidad Panamericana , made up of students from the music ensemble and directed by Salo Loyo and Lalo Hernández.
Their debut showcased the high level of musical and performance skill among its members, establishing the group as a force that will strengthen the University’s artistic presence on future stages.
Art and Culture as Pillars of a Well-Rounded Education
At the Universidad Panamericana, art and culture are an essential part of students’ well-rounded education, as they foster skills such as creativity, sensitivity, teamwork, discipline, and the confidence to express their ideas.
Spaces like UP TALENT foster the development of these skills, strengthen a sense of community, and provide opportunities for young people, graduates, and employees to share their talents in an environment of camaraderie, inspiration, and growth.
