Who We Are

Who We Are

Sheera Duerigen and Joaquín Estrada created Alma Semillera (originally named Tortillas de la Tierra) in 2013.

Joaquín is originally from Guatemala. He grew heirloom corn and worked on his family ranch growing up. He believes one of the greatest pleasures in life is eating a fantastic meal, and a meal for him isn't complete without fresh tortillas.

Sheera is first-generation, and living with a genetic disability called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. They are multiracial; their mother is from Hong Kong and their father is from Germany. They were inspired by Joaquín to learn about Mesoamerican cuisine and its long, rich history. They're passionate about cultural revitalization and preservation, social justice, ecological agriculture, and making the world a better place.