James Sarria
James’s educational background includes a B.S. in Natural Resource Conservation & Urban Agroecology from the University of California, Berkeley, and he is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Sustainable Agriculture with a focus on Urban Agroecology at Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina in Lima, Peru. James is a visionary leader deeply committed to agroecology and sustainable food systems. As the Founder & Managing Director of Instituto Perucano, a Peruvian non-profit organization nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, he dedicates his efforts to elevating society through education and participatory action, with a strong emphasis on fostering positive social and environmental impacts on a global scale. With over two decades of diverse and global experience, James skillfully leverages his expertise in community organizing, fundraising, communication, and organizational management to establish innovative partnerships and programs aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. James established the Center for Innovation in Sustainable Food Systems (CISAS), a flagship initiative offering certification programs and exchange opportunities for youth and young Peruvian professionals in the fields of sustainable agriculture, human development, and agroecology. James’s extensive experience is predominantly centered in the United States, particularly in New York and California, along with a significant footprint in Latin America. He has notably been active in countries such as Honduras, Mexico, and Peru, where he has garnered substantial exposure to the realms of agroecology and sustainable food systems. His global perspective and expertise have been broadened through training experiences in various regions, encompassing Bangladesh, Costa Rica, and Kenya. In his role as Managing Director of Instituto Perucano, James is not only at the forefront of efforts to advance sustainable food systems but also strategically guides and steers the organization. His focus extends to expanding the team, fostering a culture of collaboration within both the educational and sustainable agriculture communities, and refining operational processes to fulfill the organization’s mission. James’s profound experience and unwavering commitment position him as an effective driver of participatory action, dedicated to enacting lasting, positive changes and harnessing his knowledge in sustainable food systems to contribute to the eradication of poverty.