Meet the Talent
Efrén D. Robles Álvarez is an entrepreneur, community builder, and advocate for sustainability, born and raised in Manatí, Puerto Rico. He is the co-founder of Frutos del Guacabo, a Culinary Agro-Hub Farm, and President of Horizon Solutions LLC, a company specializing in advanced water purification technologies and technical services across multiple industries.
In 2010, alongside his wife Angelie Martínez, Efrén founded Frutos del Guacabo as a small hydroponics project. What began as an experiment quickly evolved into a movement centered on food sovereignty, sustainability, and local economic development. Today, the farm connects over 50 small farmers with more than 200 restaurants, hotels, and chefs, producing specialty crops such as edible flowers, micro-sprouts, herbs, leafy greens, and artisanal dairy products.
Beyond agriculture, Frutos del Guacabo operates as a living classroom—offering agro-tourism experiences, culinary events, and educational programs that inspire a deeper connection between people, food, and land.
In parallel, Efrén leads Horizon Solutions LLC, providing engineering, consulting, and technical support in water purification systems for Puerto Rico's pharmaceutical, healthcare, laboratory, and agricultural sectors. Recognizing the essential link between water and life, Horizon Solutions has become a trusted partner in delivering reliable and sustainable water solutions.
Efrén's leadership has been especially impactful during times of crisis. Following Hurricane María, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic, he strengthened farmer networks through Frutos del Guacabo while reinforcing Horizon Solutions' role in protecting critical infrastructure.
He has collaborated with leading organizations such as Para la Naturaleza, Fundación para Puerto Rico, World Central Kitchen, Hogar Niñito de Jesús, Fondita de Jesús, Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico, and the Schusterman Foundation's Reality Journey.
His contributions have been recognized with the Top Management Award (2016). Additionally, he has served as a judge for "Master of the Craft" at Dorado Beach, Ritz-Carlton Reserve for two consecutive years.
Through food, water, and education, Efrén Robles continues to shape a more resilient and sustainable Puerto Rico.
