My Nonprofit Reviews

Maya Traditions Foundation was a wonderful company to work for during first experience volunteering abroad. I volunteered as a designer with Maya Traditions for six weeks. In that time I created an advertising e-book and designed products for their collection. I had hands on experience with fair trade production and the additional programs of Maya Traditions. As an extremely basic Spanish speaker I felt comfortable in the office and the community of Panajachel.

The Maya Traditions Office is located in Panajachel on the breathtaking Lake Atitlan. Pana was an excellent community to work in during my first time in Central America because of its interaction of local culture, tourism, and NGO work. It is a colorful bustling town with easy access to many adventures around the Lake and Guatemala. Although I traveled alone to Panajachel, I quickly met other volunteers and friends of people in the office. The office is English friendly but also promotes Spanish and the Mayan Languages. The staff of Maya Traditions are hardworking and passionate which contributes to a supportive work environment. Maya Traditions encouraged me to experience Panajachel and Guatemala. They helped connect me with a language tutor and a host family. I stayed with a host family within walking distance of the office.

Maya Traditions helped set clear project goals for my volunteer experience. We worked effectively to find the connection between my interests as a textile design student and their needs as an NGO. I created an advertising e-book for Maya Traditions and worked on product design. As part of the e-book I helped with a photo shoot of products. I participated in visits to the jewelry and shoe suppliers. I also learned the basics of back-strap weaving, a traditional weaving process promoted by Maya Traditions products. I toured Maya Traditions medicinal plant garden and attended a literacy class for the weavers of Maya Traditions. I also spent a weekend working with the youth education program of Maya Traditions in San Juan La Laguna. Maya Traditions Foundation has many opportunities for volunteers from a variety of career backgrounds. Maya Traditions Foundation is a remarkable company that promotes culture and sustainable business practices. I was impressed by the integrity Maya Traditions and their genuine passion for their work.

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