A female sponsor who helps support a quinceañera is commonly called a madrina.
Madrina literally means “godmother,” and in quinceañera customs it can describe a woman who helps provide a traditional item, service, or financial contribution. Depending on the family, sponsors may support the dress, cake, flowers, music, religious objects, or another part of the celebration.
The related masculine term is padrino, meaning “godfather.” A madrina is not necessarily the celebrant’s biological relative, and the role does not always carry the same religious meaning as a baptismal godparent. Families often choose respected relatives, friends, or community members.
The term should not be confused with dama, which usually identifies a female member of the court of honor. Sponsor arrangements are flexible, so not every quinceañera has madrinas or padrinos.