UPC graduate Estefanie Renteria has embarked on a career journey driven by her passion for social impact. She has diverged from corporate life to dedicate herself to transforming the lives of Peru’s most vulnerable communities.
As Partner and Chief Marketing Officer of the nonprofit organization Perú Pendiente (Pending Peru), Estefanie has overseen the design and management of social projects that improve the quality of life for Peruvians experiencing entrenched disadvantage. This includes implementing over 800 projects and initiatives, helping 650,000 families across 21 regions in Peru, and positively impacting 3.86 million people. Perú Pendiente programs include community support, humanitarian aid, entrepreneurship, and education.
One of Estefanie’s proudest achievements is the development of Alimento Pendiente (Pending Food). This program supports impoverished communities by providing food and cooking equipment, such as stoves, gas cylinders, pots, and kitchen utensils for 'common pots' cooking. Common pots or communal kitchens are essential for many Peruvians, where meals are prepared in large quantities for entire neighborhoods. Alimento Pendiente has provided essential food supplies to over 37,700 individuals in community kitchens, fostering self-sustainability and resilience. Community leaders, mainly women, receive management, entrepreneurship, and nutrition training, enhancing their skills to manage these communal kitchens. The program started in Lima and now operates in nine states. It has delivered over 10 million food rations and essential products.
Estefanie’s dedication to social impact stems from a profound belief in the potential of community-driven initiatives to create lasting change. “My passion lies in empowering communities to become self-sufficient and resilient,” she said. “Through Perú Pendiente, while we aim to provide immediate relief, we also build long-term solutions that empower individuals and strengthen communities.”
In recognition of her work, Estefanie received the UPC Protagonistas del Cambio award in 2022, and was recognized by the Ministry of Education of Peru for her contributions to education. She is an active member of the Global Shapers Community (Lima hub), an initiative of the World Economic Forum where young global leaders work collaboratively to address the needs of their local communities (related to the environment, mental health, and education, among others).
Reflecting on her career change from the corporate world to a social enterprise, Estefanie said, “I realized my true calling was in making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Each project we undertake at Perú Pendiente reinforces my belief in the power of collective action and community resilience.”
Estefanie highlights the importance of holistic community development, integrating education, entrepreneurship, and sustainable practices into Perú Pendiente's initiatives. “Our approach is not just about providing aid but empowering communities to thrive independently.” This approach has enhanced livelihoods and fostered a sense of ownership among community members.
Looking ahead, Estefanie remains optimistic about the future of Perú Pendiente and the communities it serves. While she is committed to continuously adapting and expanding the organization’s programs to ensure long-term sustainability and empowerment for vulnerable communities, her dream is that the issues the organization tackles no longer exist.
In the meantime, Estefanie’s commitment to driving social change will continue to pave the way for a more equitable and resilient future for all Peruvians, showcasing the power of focused and compassionate leadership.
