A Migrant’s Sweet Dream: Bringing Parisian Pastries to Bolivia

Santa Cruz, Bolivia – In the heart of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, a charming little pastry shop is delighting locals with a taste of France. Les Petits Macarons, the dream come true of Honduran migrant Zamantha, has quickly become a beloved spot for anyone craving the satisfying taste of macarons.

Stepping into the shop, customers are enveloped in the irresistible aroma of freshly baked macarons. These delicate, meringue-based treats are brightly coloured and elegantly displayed against a backdrop of soft pastels and graceful chandeliers, evoking the enchanting atmosphere of cozy Parisian patisseries. "Each bite takes you on a journey to romantic Paris," Zamantha says with convincing enthusiasm.

For Zamantha, 31, running this entrepreneurship means more than a business, it is a dream blossomed during her travels across Europe. Her journey from Honduras to Bolivia was sparked by love – a serendipitous romance that prompted her to embark on a gradual process of starting anew in a new land in 2019. Since opening her pastry shop in 2023, she has devoted herself into sharing the joy of macarons with her new community.

Juggling the demands of raising two young children while nurturing her growing business, Zamantha’s arrival in Bolivia also meant navigating unfamiliar customs and culture. “It is not always a walk in the park, but it is so rewarding,” she says. “I want my children to understand that no matter where you come from, hard work can help you build the life you dream of.”

Zamantha’s menu features a range of flavours from timeless raspberry to unique seasonal specialities crafted with local ingredients, adapted to local taste. With Christmas around the corner, she is preparing festive macarons shaped like miniature Christmas trees, adding a touch of holiday magic to her offerings.

The response from customers has been overwhelmingly positive, as locals eagerly embrace these sweet confections. "They are absolutely delicious. I haven’t tasted anything this good in ages," raves Teresa, a Bolivian customer who has become a regular.

Zamantha’s creations showcase her culinary talent and are an introduction to many who may be new to these French delicacies. “I love showing to them the real thing,” she smiles, highlighting the differences between macarons and similar treats like Argentine alfajores.

Still, Zamantha’s journey has not been without its bumps. As a migrant starting from scratch, she has faced many challenges but tackled each one with determination and positivity. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has played a crucial role in her success, helping her navigate her entrepreneurial path. "The potential of migrants is truly limitless," says Pamela Fernandez, IOM Head of Office in Bolivia. "Their talents can be a significant lift to local economies."

IOM supported 117 migrants in Bolivia to establish and strengthen their businesses in 2023 and 2024. This initiative includes business management and soft skills, technical support for business plans, and essential equipment. “By fostering sustainable livelihoods, we empower migrants to integrate into the workforce and contribute to the socio-economic development of their host communities,” adds Pamela. 

At FEXPOCRUZ, South America’s largest international fair, Zamantha enthusiastically shares her macarons with a global audience, eager to seize every opportunity for growth. "Every conversation is a precious opportunity, every event a chance to share my vision," she says. Thanks to the new partnerships with local businesses, her sales have recently jumped by an impressive 30 per cent.

Through Les Petis Macarons, Zamantha has successfully introduced a taste of France to Bolivia, creating a community for fellow sweet lovers with the universal language of food. “This shop is my way of saying that I am here, and I am proud to call this place home,” she affirms, highlighting her commitment to both her roots and her new life.

This story was written by Gema Cortes, IOM Media and Communications Unit, Office of the Special Envoy for the Regional Response to the Venezuela Situation.