How Aromática Blends Tradition and Innovation: A Venezuelan Entrepreneur’s Journey

Maria Alejandra

Admissions Manager & Master's Degree Learner

Building a sustainable Venezuelan food business in Miami

Tomorrow University MBA learner María Alejandra Rivero grew up watching her mother, María Elena, turn her Venezuelan heritage and love for the earth into a meaningful business. From Miami, María Elena shares not only traditional flavors but a vision of resilience and sustainability that has inspired her daughter’s path. This is the story of how family and purpose shape careers that make a difference.

From farming to flavor: a journey of resilience and sustainable entrepreneurship

María Elena’s mission goes beyond building a business. After relocating to Miami, she adapted to a completely new culture and lifestyle, leaving behind Venezuela’s rural landscapes. With Aromática, she not only brings the flavors of Venezuela to her community but also connects her clients to the healing, nourishing qualities of aromatic plants and traditional cuisine.

Connecting with tradition: how Aromática preserves Venezuelan culinary heritage

What inspired Aromática? Initially, María Elena focused on creating mini-gardens with aromatic plants, encouraging others to grow their own herbs and reconnect with nature. But as the pandemic reshaped the economy, she pivoted. She now offers frozen Venezuelan dishes made with traditional recipes—like corn arepas, black bean hallacas, and mango ceviche—evoking her homeland and culture.

Cooking became more than a business; it was a way to preserve her roots and share her culture, reminding us that food can build community. Today, each dish she prepares introduces clients to Venezuelan flavors while promoting health and sustainability.

Innovating Venezuelan cuisine for health and sustainability

María Elena proves that innovation doesn’t require abandoning tradition—it can enhance it. She incorporates local ingredients and even superfoods like chia and quinoa, aligning with Miami’s health-conscious market while staying true to Venezuelan heritage. For example, she adapts arepas with cassava or sweet potato, offering a nutritious alternative.

Finding organic, agroecological products can be challenging in Miami, but María Elena has developed partnerships with local suppliers to source quality ingredients. Her approach highlights the importance of supporting local agriculture and fostering connections between consumers and the land.

Empowering future generations through education and sustainable practices

Education is central to María Elena’s mission. She offers workshops on aromatic plants, legumes, and biodiversity in cooking, collaborating with organizations like Circulars 4 the Future. Their latest project is a story series for children and young adults on sustainability—a powerful initiative she believes can inspire the next generation toward positive change.

As she often reminds me, transformation requires collective effort. Her work envisions a future where farmers, chefs, teachers, and children all contribute to a sustainable world, showing that entrepreneurship can be a force for meaningful impact.

Lessons in resilience: overcoming obstacles to create a purpose-driven business

My mother’s journey with Aromática reminds me of the importance of resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship. From navigating Miami’s urban food supply to finding sustainable ingredients, she has faced many challenges. Yet her commitment has never wavered. Her story has shown me that building something meaningful is a process that demands dedication, innovation, and an unwavering connection to what matters most.

As I reflect on her journey, I am inspired by the balance she maintains between honoring her roots and embracing new possibilities. María Elena’s story is more than a business journey; it’s a reminder that success isn’t measured by profit alone but by the positive change we bring to our communities and the legacy we create.

Conclusion

María Elena’s journey reminds María Alejandra of the power of heritage, resilience, and community impact. Now, as a Tomorrow University Master's degree, Sustainability, Entrepreneurship and Technology learner, she’s shaping her own path with those same values. Inspired by her mother, she’s committed to creating a legacy of purpose and change. Inspired to make your own impact? Discover Tomorrow University’s programs today.

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