Archive: Colombia Amparo Maya

Amparo Maya Guerrero has lived for nearly four decades at her family’s Finca Las Mangas in Chachagüí, Nariño, working alongside her brother, Cesar, from a century-old home built by their grandfather. The land, inherited from an aunt, was once used primarily for stables and long believed unsuitable for agriculture. When it was divided among family members, only Amparo and Cesar chose to remain and cultivate it.

Despite being advised that coffee would not succeed at this elevation, they planted their first trees more than 30 years ago. Today, Las Mangas produces multiple coffee varieties alongside citrus, feijoa, cherimoya, and avocado trees for export. Amparo studied economics in Pasto and operated a small restaurant before redirecting her earnings and focus back to the land.

Her approach is rooted in long-term commitment through both abundance and hardship. Early on, she faced demanding work, long walks into town before dawn, and periods of regional instability, remaining firm in her refusal to compromise her values. This lot reflects that approach, delivering a clean, structured cup shaped by place, patience, and resolve.