Roger Bardales
MOKANRANKO
Roger Mokanranko Bardales, of the Shipibo-Konibo people, is an internationally recognized healer and vegetalista with extensive experience in the use of medicinal plants. Having traveled to numerous countries, he continues to bring visitors to the Ucayali region who seek healing and wish to learn about Shipibo traditions.
Through his knowledge and international network, he has long been engaged in supporting Indigenous communities and promoting environmental conservation.
Since his official appointment as Ambassador of the Indigenous Peoples, he has further strengthened his commitment to these efforts and to the advancement of Indigenous rights, culture, and territorial protection.
A life dedicated to traditional medicine from an early age
Roger was born in 1983 in a small community in the mountains of Canchawaya and grew up in the traditional way of the ancient indigenous people in peace with nature.
At age 8, he was called to follow his grandfather on the path of shamanism. He spent the next 15 years on the diet in the jungle studying the medicinal plants of the Amazon. He completed his studies as 'Banco', the highest level of native healing skills, and received the name of the plants "MOKANRANKO".
Traveler and teacher in Europe
In 2007, he began to bring the medicine of the Amazon to the world, traveling to numerous countries in Europe and the United States. There he gave ceremonies in the Shipibo tradition, gave lectures on their culture, songs and healing knowledge and established a wide network.
Through him and his students, countless people have come into contact with Amazonian medicine in the last 15 years. Many international guests followed his invitation to the Ucayali region to experience indigenous healing and culture.
Active in politics as Ambassador
The experience of modern development observed in Western countries inspired him to promote similar progress within his own country.
Following his first travels to Europe, he became increasingly engaged in political and community advocacy, working to improve the living conditions and strengthen the rights of Indigenous populations.
Among his initiatives, he contributed—through personal commitment and private resources—to the development of basic infrastructure in his community, including access to electricity, water, and lighting, while also promoting tourism and cultural activities.
His efforts were highly valued by the local population, who elected him President of the Santa Martha de Pucallpa Community in 2021. His work subsequently gained broader regional recognition, leading to his appointment in 2022 as Ambassador of the Indigenous Peoples of the Ucayali region.
Hope for a better future for the Amazon Region
With this official title, he aims to strengthen and further develop his ongoing initiatives, making more effective use of his institutional position. He maintains a broad network of contacts in both political and business sectors, which he seeks to leverage in support of Indigenous rights and environmental protection.
For a better future for our children and generations to come.
