Women who are innovative entrepreneurs: Learn about Verónica Rodríguez's story

Posted on 10 March 2025

The sun barely peeks over the horizon when Verónica Rodríguez López is already on her feet. Her day begins at the artisanal fishing landing site in Los Órganos, a place where the sea and the community are intertwined in a constant back-and-forth of hope and hard work. With her attentive look and her hands ready, she waits for the arrival of the vessels that bring the fruits of the fishing work. That fresh fish is the basis of her livelihood, the first link in a process in which she has found her passion and strength.

As a fish filletter, Verónica invests every morning to purchase fish. She knows that behind every product, there is an opportunity for growth, a chance to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. But her story goes beyond the routine at the fishing landing site. She is a mother of three children, a woman of firm convictions who has learned to row against the current and sustain her home with her hands and the love for her community.

Some time ago, her journey and the paths of other enterprising women in Los Órganos crossed with an unexpected opportunity: to transform fish waste into an innovative product. What used to end up in the sea or as waste in the community now comes to life in the form of Challwamino, a venture born out of necessity, but also out of creativity and determination.

Challwamino is not just a product, it is a symbol of resilience and sustainability. It is proof that with teamwork and commitment, positive changes can be generated. Verónica and her colleagues have turned a problem into a solution that nourishes their families and protects the ecosystem they love.

“I am proud to prepare Challwamino because with this biofertilizer made from fish waste, we are taking care of the environment to have a positive impact on our community,” she says with a smile full of hope.

On Women's Day, we want to highlight Verónica and so many other women who, like her, defy imposed limits. Real change begins with those who, like the waves of the sea, never stop moving, insisting, transforming.

Como filetera, Verónica invierte cada mañana en la compra del pescado. Sabe que detrás de cada insumo hay una oportunidad de crecimiento, una posibilidad de transformar lo ordinario en algo extraordinario.

© WWF-Perú