Padrino is the Spanish term traditionally used for a male sponsor or godfather-like supporter of a quinceañera.
A padrino may help the family with expenses, ceremonial items, organization, or religious participation, depending on local custom. The feminine counterpart is madrina, and a group of sponsors may be described with the plural padrinos or the combined phrase padrinos y madrinas.
A padrino is not the same as a chambelán. A chambelán is generally a young male attendant in the court of honor, while a padrino is an adult sponsor or supporter. Families may ask relatives, family friends, or other trusted adults to fill the sponsor role.
Customs differ widely, so a quinceañera does not require a padrino. Some families retain a formal sponsor system, while others fund and organize the celebration themselves.