Mijas is a unique and dynamic town that strives to strike the perfect balance between progress and tradition. Ana Mata works tirelessly to set an example of innovation, sustainability, cutting-edge thinking and development, whilst remaining true to its roots and customs.
Q: Tell us what Mijas is like
Mijas is a unique place in the world, a town with soul. We have everything; from a white village nestled in the mountains, to an urban area, as well as a coastal community. Strong contrasts that make Mijas exceptional. Added to all this is the open and welcoming character of its people, which makes us a cosmopolitan municipality—proof of this is that people from 130 different nationalities live together here.
Q: What is your main motivation for being mayor?
I understand politics as a public service, and being mayor is an example of that. My motivation is to make Mijas a place that brings happiness to each of us who live here, and a municipality where all our aspirations can be fulfilled. My goal is always to help the people of Mijas, to grow and move forward as a city until we consolidate ourselves as the benchmark we already are. Mijas is no longer a small town—it has become a large city with a broad vision.
Q: What would you like your residents to see in you as mayor?
That I am approachable, accessible, and always there to respond to their needs. For me, my residents and their well-being are a priority. For me, Mijas comes first.
Q: What projects or improvements has the Town Hall undertaken during your term?
I always say that we have put our internal affairs in order, and that will be reflected externally. We have implemented improvements in the Town Hall’s internal management to be more transparent and efficient in handling public resources. Externally, we have many ongoing projects, such as the expansion of the Las Lagunas Sports Complex, improvements to sports infrastructure, also of a social nature, and the milestone of the high-resolution healthcare center that will be built for all Mijas residents… We are working on many fronts to continue progressing.
Q: Is the Town Hall currently involved in any projects underway or planned for the future that you would like to highlight?
There are many. As I mentioned, one of the most important projects is the expansion of the Las Lagunas Sports Complex due to its social importance. Also, the aforementioned healthcare center. But we are not stopping there: we are going to renovate and expand the La Cala football field, and replace the turf at Osunillas and the Las Lagunas annex. We continue building the Coastal Path, which, by the way, has been affected by storms in one of its sections. We are also continuing with our parking plan to improve mobility in Mijas. We are already taking care of our mountains, with constant maintenance ahead of wildfire season to try to minimize risks. There are many exciting projects that will make Mijas an even better place than it already is. Our residents deserve nothing less.
Q: What makes Mijas an ideal place to live?
I could talk about the climate, its natural surroundings, its culture, gastronomy… Mijas has everything. Life flows here, and everyone who visits notices it—many choose to stay, which is something we are very proud of.
Q: What does it offer young people, children, and seniors?
As I mentioned before, we are an open city where everyone has a place. Every segment of the population plays a leading role, and we develop initiatives designed for them. I prefer to think and act in a cross-cutting way, so that all the attractions of Mijas can be enjoyed by all ages. This is true in sports, as Mijas is a municipality with sea, mountains, and very diverse facilities, offering activities for all ages. We offer everyone a great place to live, with a good climate, urban and rural areas, enviable natural wealth, and an excellent location in the heart of the Costa del Sol, very close to Málaga International Airport… Everyone enjoys life here.
Q: What are the most important festivals in the municipality?
Without a doubt, its three fairs, especially the Virgen de la Peña fair held in September. Its Andalusian charm makes it unique, and the procession of the patron saint is full of unforgettable moments. I also don’t want to forget Holy Week, an event that blends devotion with tradition and is especially meaningful in Mijas. I invite everyone to experience it.
Q: What would you like Mijas to be like in the future?
An open, accessible, and forward-looking city where everyone wants to settle, whether to live or to start a business. A hub for investment, but with a high quality of life and the greatest levels of well-being. What it is now—but even better.
Are you someone who sees the glass as half full or half empty?
Always half full. Life is full of opportunities to seize every day, and it’s always better to do so with optimism.
How would you define yourself?
I am a perfectionist, very demanding of myself, and always committed to helping others.
What are you good at, aside from your work?
As I said before, I care deeply about others, and perhaps my role is that of a protector. I am good at taking care of people.
Your main hobby?
I love practicing sports, and even more so if it’s near the sea. I also love reading.
Do you count to 10, or not even to 3?
It depends on the moment and the circumstances. Everyone can be very patient one day and less so another. I am passionate, which is not incompatible with being rational, but if I had to place myself on a scale from 1 to 10, I would probably say 8. I understand that everything in life takes time. The important thing is to enjoy the moment.
Where do you go to disconnect?
I love the sea, and walking along the Coastal Path is a great way to unwind. The rural areas of Mijas are also magical.
What do you value most in a person?
Loyalty and sincerity.
Do you admire anyone?
I admire the people who raised me—my parents—because they taught me the values that guide my life: hard work, effort, solidarity, and sincerity. I also admire all those who give without expecting anything in return, who help those in need, and who strive to make this world a better place.
Who would you go have a good glass of wine with?
With any friend who enjoys a good conversation.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Happy.
Tell me a childhood memory.
Any summer day with my family, at the beach, by the sea, is a wonderful memory for me.
Claudia Cruz / What-son
