Minority Majority 023: Latino Duo Fighting Climate Change, 'Talking Sabor' on Hulu, & HECHO's Camilla Simon

INTRODUCTION
¡Saludos! Welcome to the 23rd edition of the Minority Majority newsletter.

This week, we delve into the inspiring entrepreneurial spirit of Diego Saez Gil and Tomas Aftalion, the founders of Pachama, a leading Climatetech startup in the U.S. We also savor the flavors of Latino heritage with Chef Aarón Sánchez in his new Hulu series “Talking Sabor,” and spotlight Camilla Simon's impactful work with HECHO, promoting Latino involvement in conservation efforts. Each story celebrates the remarkable achievements and profound influence of our community.

So, grab your afternoon cafecito, settle in, and if you enjoy, please forward the newsletter to friends or share it on social media! With your engagement and support, we continue to shine a light on these compelling narratives each week. ☕️

BUSINESS
The Latino Duo Spearheading Environmental Change using AI & Technology

On Monday, April 22nd, as communities worldwide celebrated Earth Day, we want to take today (a few days late) to focus to the remarkable achievements of Diego Saez Gil and Tomas Aftalion. These visionary US-based Argentinian co-founders have made significant strides in the Climatetech arena with their groundbreaking startup, Pachama. As one of the first Latino-led startups in the Climatetech space to secure significant funding and success, their story is not just one of innovation but also of profound impact and representation in the fight against climate change.

Diego Saez Gil, Co-Founder and CEO of Pachama, born at the foothills of Argentina's Yungas forests, began his journey influenced by his rich heritage of indigenous and immigrant descent. His career across Europe, the USA, and China equipped him with cutting-edge tech expertise, but it was the loss of his home to a California wildfire that turned his professional path into a personal crusade against climate change. This transformative experience fueled his determination to dedicate his life to nature's protection and restoration.

Parallel to Diego's story, Tomas Aftalion, Co-Founder and Head of X, harnessed his big data acumen, developed at Carnegie Mellon University, to pioneer significant social impacts—from facilitating microloans in Kenya to revolutionizing the transparency of carbon credits. His analytical prowess and visionary outlook culminated in the co-creation of Pachama, where he leads ambitious projects to verify and enhance the integrity of forest conservation efforts globally.

As leaders in the Climatetech field, Pachama leverages AI and satellite data to revolutionize the way forest conservation and restoration projects are verified and monitored. Their innovative approach has not only attracted recognition from prestigious entities like Fast Company and Forbes but has also secured Pachama a place as a trusted partner for major companies committed to sustainability.

Pachama's client roster reads like a who's who of global corporate leadership in climate action, including names like Salesforce, Nespresso, Airbnb, Duolingo (which is also Latino-founded and we covered here in edition 012), Shopify, and Boston Consulting Group, among others. These partnerships underscore the reliability and efficacy of Pachama's technology in aiding companies to make substantial and verifiable contributions to the health of our planet.

As Pachama continues to expand, its Series B funding extension in December of 2023 to $64 million, and their total funding of $88M, highlights the growing confidence in its mission and methodologies. This funding will propel further advancements in AI and geospatial analytics, crucial for scaling up efforts to restore forests and biodiversity worldwide. Partnerships with significant entities like Mercado Libre to restore forests in Latin America and Ducks Unlimited in the US, underscore Pachama’s role in larger, impactful environmental initiatives.

Diego Saez Gil and Tomas Aftalion's vision for a sustainable future where technology and nature restoration go hand in hand is more than an entrepreneurial success story—it's a vital chapter in our global environmental narrative. As we reflect on Earth Day, their work reminds us of the powerful role innovative leadership can play in addressing the planet's most pressing challenges.

CULTURA
Chef Aarón Sánchez's 'Talking Sabor' Debuts on Hulu, Celebrating Latino Cuisine and Culture

Celebrity chef Aarón Sánchez's new series "Talking Sabor," which premiered on Hulu yesterday, April 24th, is more than just a cooking show—it's a vibrant journey through the heart and soul of our Latino cuisine. In this innovative series, Sánchez travels to Latino-owned restaurants across key U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, Houston, and Miami, exploring the rich tapestry of flavors and stories that define our Latino culinary traditions.

"Talking Sabor" is not only a showcase of mouthwatering dishes but also a platform for the voices of the Latino community. Each episode features Sánchez alongside notable guests such as singer Justin Quiles, Olympic boxer Marlen Esparza, and chef Wes Avila. Together, they explore menus that celebrate the depth and diversity of Latino flavors, aiming to transform palates and perceptions alike.

Sánchez, known for his roles on "Chopped" and "MasterChef," brings his culinary expertise and Mexican-American heritage to the forefront, making each dining experience a narrative of cultural pride and culinary excellence. The show hails from a collaboration between Sánchez's production company Cocina, Pepsi, and Disney Advertising, underscoring a significant commitment to elevating Latino culture through media.

Each episode of "Talking Sabor" serves as a heartfelt tribute to the perseverance and passion of Latino restaurateurs who embody the American dream. Sánchez's journey is deeply personal, reflecting his own experiences growing up in a family that ran a restaurant for over 30 years and valued culinary heritage as a cornerstone of community and identity.

The series also addresses the vital role food plays in connecting generations of Latinos, with Sánchez noting, "Food is the language that all of us speak." This sentiment resonates throughout the show as viewers are invited to discover and appreciate the nuanced flavors of Latino cuisine.

"Talking Sabor" is a celebration of Latino heritage, a testament to the enduring spirit of neighborhood restaurants, and a call to recognize and support these vital cultural hubs. As the series unfolds, viewers are encouraged to explore and embrace the rich diversity of Latino culinary traditions, making "Talking Sabor" a must-watch for food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

IMPACTO
Camilla Simon: Championing Latino Voices in Outdoor Conservation

Also in the spirit of Earth Day earlier this week, it's crucial to spotlight the efforts of individuals and organizations like Camilla Simon and Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO). As the Executive Director of HECHO, Camilla has dedicated her career to amplifying Latino voices in conservation and public land management, a mission that resonates deeply with the Latino community's long-standing connection to nature.

Since assuming her role in 2014, Camilla has transformed HECHO into a pivotal platform for Hispanic and Latino Americans to express their unique perspectives on conservation. Her leadership has redefined what it means to be a conservationist, stressing the importance of Hispanic generational ties to the land. These ties not only enrich public policy debates but also ensure that outdoor spaces remain accessible and preserved for future generations.

Under Camilla’s guidance, HECHO has thrived through strategic partnerships, like the significant alliance with the National Wildlife Federation in 2018. This collaboration has been instrumental in bolstering the conservation movement, aiming to engage a diverse array of communities in the safeguarding of our natural world. Through these efforts, Simon has elevated Hispanic and Latino conservation leaders, providing them with the resources and visibility to drive change.

HECHO's mission extends beyond leadership and advocacy; it encompasses a deep-rooted connection to the land known as "Querencia y Herencia" — a familial bond to nature passed down through generations. This connection is vital for many Latino families, who view public lands as arenas for recreation and cultural expression, engaging in activities like fishing, hiking, and camping.

As we reflect on Earth Day, the work of Camilla Simon and HECHO underscores the importance of inclusive conservation practices. Their efforts ensure that Latino communities are not only represented in public land decisions but are also front and center in shaping the policies that will define the environmental legacy for the next generation. This engagement is crucial in fostering strong, culturally-rich communities that are connected to nature and to each other, embodying HECHO's vision for a sustainable and inclusive future.

EN LA COCINA

How to Make: Chilean Pastel de Choclo

Pastel de Choclo, a beloved Chilean corn pie, is a hearty dish that layers flavors of meat, corn, and spices, perfect for a satisfying meal. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

• Salt to taste

For the Corn Topping:

• 6 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6-8 ears of corn, depending on size)

• 1/2 cup milk

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon basil, finely chopped (optional)

Other:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for more moisture)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat Filling:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the oil and sauté the onion until translucent.

2. Cook the Meat: Add the garlic and ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned.

3. Add Flavors: Stir in cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for a few more minutes until well combined.

4. Mix in Extras: Add the olives and raisins, and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Set aside.

Make the Corn Topping:

1. Blend the Corn: In a blender or food processor, pulse the corn kernels with milk until the mixture is semi-smooth with some chunky bits.

2. Cook the Corn Mixture: In a large pot, melt the butter. Add the blended corn, salt, sugar, and basil. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).

Assemble the Pie:

1. Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread the meat mixture evenly. Layer the sliced eggs over the meat. Pour the thickened corn mixture over the top, spreading it to cover all the meat and eggs.

3. Add Moisture: If desired, drizzle chicken broth over the corn layer to keep it moist.

Bake:

1. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Serve:

1. Let the pastel de choclo cool slightly before serving. This dish is traditionally enjoyed hot, often accompanied by a fresh salad or pebre (a Chilean condiment made with cilantro, chopped onion, olive oil, garlic, and chili).

Pastel de Choclo is a rich and flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of Chilean culinary traditions, making it a wonderful treat for gatherings or a family dinner. Enjoy your cooking!

NUESTRO TRIVIA: Last Week’s Answer

Last week, we asked: Who was the first Latina to win an Oscar?

The correct answer is: Rita Moreno

The first Latina to win an Oscar was Rita Moreno, who achieved this historic milestone at the Academy Awards in 1962. She won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in the musical film "West Side Story."

Moreno's win was not only a significant achievement for her career but also a breakthrough moment for Hispanic representation in Hollywood. Born in Puerto Rico, Moreno's success paved the way for future generations of Latino actors in the entertainment industry.

Her Oscar win remains a symbol of progress in the ongoing push for diversity and inclusion in cinema.

NUESTRO TRIVIA: This Week!

Question: Which Uruguayan city is known as the 'Monaco of South America'?

Reply with your guess! Answers will be revealed in the next newsletter!

RIEGA LA VOZ

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