In 2012, Virgilio Martinez and his sister Malena founded the Mater Iniciativa organization. The scientific approach to surveying Peru’s endemic species has evolved into a broader project involving understanding indigenous cultures without “appropriating” them, and working to respect the environment. In Lima, but also from his new Mil restaurant in Moray (3,800 meters above sea level), products are catalogued and tested for culinary application. Partnerships are set up with local communities to generate income while maintaining their traditions (Mater Sostiene).
An anthropologist, his wife Pía Leon, herself a chef, and other food and beverage professionals joined the team. Their mission: ” Promoting megadiversity without borders. To be a source of information for the world on food, to educate, raise awareness and pass on knowledge. Designing culinary experiences that convey values such as connectivity (with nature and between people), cultural identity, respect and care for the environment around us “.
