At the heart of Urubamba, a quaint town nestled within Peru’s Sacred Valley, lies a unique restaurant that has become more than just a place for dining. Founded by Julio Chemi Sanchez Hernandez, AMA is a beacon of hope and support for single mothers, offering them a nurturing environment where they can work while their children play nearby. This innovative concept has not only transformed the lives of these families but also provided travelers with an authentic experience that goes beyond mere meals. Through partnerships with organizations like Intrepid, visitors can engage directly with the women who run this special establishment, learning about their stories and the inspiration behind Julio’s vision.
Nurturing Single Mothers in a Supportive Environment
The creation of AMA stemmed from Julio’s desire to address the challenges faced by single mothers in the region. Recognizing the lack of supportive spaces, he envisioned a place where these women could thrive both professionally and personally. By providing employment opportunities and a child-friendly atmosphere, AMA has become a lifeline for many. The restaurant allows mothers to balance their work responsibilities with family life, ensuring they never have to choose between earning a living and caring for their children.
Julio’s personal connection to this cause runs deep. Raised by a single mother himself, he understands firsthand the importance of love and support in overcoming adversity. At AMA, this philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the operation. For instance, Lupita Castro Arias, the head chef, shares how her life changed when she joined the team. After separating from her husband, Lupe struggled to find employers willing to accommodate her need to care for her son. AMA offered her not just a job but a community that embraced her and her child. “Because Julio allowed us to bring our children here, I was able to spend more time with my son,” she explains. This inclusive approach has made all the difference for Lupe and countless others.
Building a Thriving Community Through Collective Effort
AMA’s success lies in its ability to foster a sense of belonging among its staff and patrons alike. The restaurant serves as a testament to the power of collective effort and mutual support. Visitors are welcomed into this vibrant community, where they can witness firsthand the positive impact of Julio’s vision. Through guided tours and interactions with the single mothers, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these families and the resilience that defines them.
Julio’s commitment extends far beyond the walls of the restaurant. He views each of the 45 single mothers working at AMA as part of his extended family. “That’s 45 families,” he emphasizes. “I have 45 kids. That’s a lot of responsibility.” His dedication to empowering these women is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a chance to succeed. As the son of a single mother, Julio learned early on the value of perseverance and self-belief. “If you have something in your mind, you have a dream or you have something to do… continue believing in yourself,” he advises. This message resonates deeply within the walls of AMA, inspiring both its staff and visitors alike.
The allure of Peru's ancient wonders draws countless visitors, but it is the people and their stories that truly capture the soul. Our journey through the Sacred Valley revealed a rich tapestry of culture and resilience. Upon arrival in Cusco, we immediately felt the high-altitude charm of this historic city. After a bumpy landing at the airport, we ventured into the bustling streets, eventually finding ourselves at Nuna Raymi, a restaurant dedicated to preserving indigenous Andean ingredients. Here, we indulged in a culinary experience that not only delighted our taste buds but also educated us about the region’s agricultural heritage.
A day later, we continued deeper into the valley, stopping at AMA Restaurant in Urubamba. This unique establishment, founded by Julio Chemi Sanchez Hernandez, provides employment opportunities for single mothers while offering a nurturing environment for their children. The heartwarming stories shared by Julio and Lupe Castro Arias, a head chef who has transformed her life through her work at AMA, highlighted the power of community and perseverance. Their narratives underscored how such initiatives can create lasting generational change, empowering women and their families.
Our adventure culminated with a visit to the Quechua community of Huilloc, where we were welcomed with traditional songs and dances. The women here have formed a tourism association, allowing them to earn income while preserving their weaving traditions. Interacting with Claudia Quispe Medina, a young mother who has found financial independence through her craft, was particularly inspiring. As we boarded the train to Aguas Calientes, we carried with us not just souvenirs but also the profound impact of these encounters.
Machu Picchu, shrouded in mist upon our arrival, gradually revealed its majestic beauty under the morning sun. The energy of this ancient site, combined with the vibrant communities we had visited, left an indelible mark on us. It became clear that the true essence of Peru lies not just in its historical landmarks but in the enduring spirit of its people. This journey instilled in us a deep appreciation for cultural preservation and the importance of supporting local communities. Indeed, as Lucho remarked, there is something spiritually uplifting about this land—a feeling that lingers long after one leaves.
In this captivating narrative, we follow Danielle Marie Lister, an adventure photographer whose career is as thrilling as the landscapes she captures. Her journey from a young photography enthusiast to a Canon Canada collaborator is both inspiring and instructive. This piece explores how Danielle's passion for outdoor adventures and her skill with a camera have led her to some of the most breathtaking locations on Earth. Through her experiences in places like Patagonia, Danielle has not only mastered the art of capturing nature but also discovered new perspectives that enrich her work.
A Journey Through Wild Landscapes
In the heart of a crisp winter morning, Danielle finds herself in Whitehorse, Yukon, where fresh snow blankets the ground. Growing up here, she developed a deep connection with nature, which later fueled her passion for adventure photography. Recently, Danielle embarked on an Intrepid small group adventure in Patagonia, collaborating with Canon Canada. During this trip, she was particularly inspired by the lesser-known views that offered unique photographic opportunities.
Danielle’s love for photography began in childhood, sparked by her father’s enthusiasm and his collection of Canon cameras. By the age of ten, she was already documenting family trips and exploring various styles of photography. Over time, she realized her true calling lay in adventure photography, a genre that combines storytelling with diverse photographic techniques. At 21, she joined Canon’s FUTURES mentorship program, which paved the way for further collaborations.
Patagonia, with its limitless adventures, provided Danielle with the perfect setting to hone her skills. She emphasizes the importance of using a dedicated camera to capture the essence of a place, noting that smartphones can be distracting. The Canon EOS R100, lightweight and versatile, became her companion throughout the journey. Its portability allowed her to document every moment, from wide-angle landscapes to intimate portraits.
Traveling with a small group added another dimension to her experience. Interacting with people from different backgrounds enriched her perspective, allowing her to capture unexpected moments. Local guides Rosario Wevar and Camila Sepulveda shared invaluable insights into the region’s history and geology, enhancing the overall experience. One of the highlights was witnessing multiple glacier breaks in the French Valley, reminding Danielle of the raw power of nature.
Reflections on Adventure Photography
From a journalist’s perspective, Danielle’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of photography. It shows how a simple hobby can evolve into a fulfilling career, driven by passion and dedication. Danielle’s approach to adventure photography—focusing on storytelling and emotional connections—offers valuable lessons for aspiring photographers. Her experiences underscore the importance of being present and open to new perspectives, whether through a camera lens or simply with one’s senses. Ultimately, Danielle’s journey encourages us to explore the world around us and capture its beauty in our own unique way.