The Ohtli award is administered by the
Secretariat of Foreign Affairs. It is given once annually by the embassies and consists of a medallion, silver
rosette and a diploma. The name of the award comes from the
Nahuatl word which means "road" or "path." The medal depicts an
Aztec god cutting grass with a
machete. The symbolism of the name alludes to the idea of opening a path for others. The first award was given out in 1996. The award is one of the highest honors given to citizens living outside of Mexico. The Ohtli Award recognizes individuals who have aided, empowered or positively affected the lives of Mexican nationals that reside abroad. Between 1996 and 2016 the award was given to 601 individuals and organizations. == Notable recipients ==