Anthropologist and specialist in the indigenous communities of the Alto Mayo valley (Peru)
Trained in anthropology and specialising in Latin America, Hélène Collongues worked on development projects in the Awajun communities of the Alto Mayo valley in Peru, measuring the impact of the market economy on these forest societies, the scale of the destruction, impunity and revolt. It was at this time that she met Albertina, with whom she worked to help the often isolated Jivaro communities, forging a deep bond of friendship that lasted almost twenty years. Thanks to her help and knowledge, Hélène Collongues was able to help set up a wildlife reserve and tackle wildlife trafficking. She also founded an association, Ikamaperou, which works in the upper Amazonas with the Kukama kukamiria people.