Between Two Waters: Peer-to-Peer Learning Peru–Italy

Julio López and Josué Abad, artisanal fishermen from El Callao, had the honor of representing Peru at the Terra Madre International Fair, held in the Puglia region of Italy. Through their participation, they shared knowledge, traditions, and experiences with local fishermen and international experts in artisanal fishing, aquaculture, and even bakery.

Promoting the Cultural Heritage of the Chalaco Sea

The participation of the Peruvian fishermen was made possible thanks to the support of the Patronato por la Cocina del Callao, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)–Peru, and the Decentralized Directorate of Culture of Callao, who worked to highlight the cultural and economic richness that the Chalaco Sea represents for local communities.

As part of their involvement, both fishermen led a Peruvian Ceviche Dinner, accompanied by chef Andrés Ugaz, where Peru’s most iconic dish was presented as a symbol of the country’s culinary heritage.

Building Bridges Through Networks

The Biocultural Diversity and Territories Platform was part of a network of more than 15 institutions created between Italy and Peru. One of the organizations that supported this process was Fundación Capital, which contributed $2,000 through crowdfunding to help make the trip possible. Other major contributions came from the Fundación Sarañani and the Patronato por la Cocina del Callao itself, which organized awareness-raising and fundraising events in the lead-up to the Fair.

Before their journey, both fishermen were trained by Erika Stigler, cultural manager of the DDC Callao, on themes of heritage, Chalaco identity, and the history of ceviche as a World Heritage dish. This preparation enabled them to carry a strong and meaningful representation of Callao’s fishing culture to Italy.

Cultural Exchange and New Opportunities for Collaboration

One of the most remarkable activities was their visit to the sustainable aquaculture facilities of Cariglia in Manfredonia, where López and Abad learned firsthand about production methods that integrate environmental sustainability with economic viability.

These encounters, facilitated by Slow Food Puglia, allowed not only the exchange of technical knowledge but also planted the seeds for future collaborations between Peru and Italy on marine sustainability and the promotion of artisanal fishing.

A Fusion of Flavors and Life Projects

The trip was also marked by an unforgettable dinner at the restaurant Il Cappero, where the Peruvian fishermen shared their stories and projects with an international audience. The evening, featuring a fusion of artisanal fishing products and aquaculture, was the perfect setting for López and Abad to express their dreams and challenges.

The warm yet professional environment fostered an exchange of ideas about the future of artisanal fishing and opened the door to new alliances aimed at inclusive development for fishing communities on both sides of the Atlantic.

A Promising Future for Artisanal Fishing

The journey of Julio López and Josué Abad to Italy not only showcased the importance of artisanal fishing as an economic and cultural driver but also opened new doors for Peru and its coastal communities to gain international recognition.

With the promise of future collaborations and a firm commitment to sustainability, the Chalaco fishermen return to Peru with a renewed vision and strong determination to continue advocating for the recognition and strengthening of their heritage.

This peer-to-peer exchange has been a valuable opportunity to build closer ties and explore, together, how to face the challenges affecting artisanal fishing in the context of climate change and increasing pressure on natural resources.