We are an organization led by Indigenous women for Indigenous girls. At MAIA, we maximize
and amplify the transformative power of women to create a society of equity and opportunity.
Our name comes from Maia: one of the brightest stars in the sky, a symbol of knowledge and wisdom and holds meaning in all three languages we work in (Kaqchikel, Spanish and English).
In Guatemala, education is still a privilege, not a right, for most Indigenous women. We exist to change that—because when a woman has access to quality education, she empowers herself, breaks cycles of poverty, and creates an impact that ripples across generations.
At MAIA, we don’t just provide education, we create opportunities through a unique impact model that includes:
We call our students Girl Pioneers because they are forging a new path towards opportunity and equity. They are Indigenous girls who live in rural areas and in poverty in Guatemala. All Girl Pioneers receive a full scholarship to attend the MAIA Impact School.
When Indigenous girls are given the opportunity to learn and lead, the impact extends far beyond the classroom. It can be seen in stronger families, more resilient communities, and a growing generation of women building futures on their own terms.
MAIA graduates complete an average of 15 years of education.
Indigenous women in Guatemala, on average, receive only 3 years of education.
MAIA graduates graduates secure formal jobs with stability and independence, earning salaries above the national average.
In Guatemala, 93% of Indigenous women work in the informal economy.
MAIA graduates delay marriage and motherhood until after the age of 25, choosing to achieve a stable situation to support their families. Currently, 57% of young Indigenous women in Guatemala are married or have become mothers by the age of 20.
MAIA graduates are leaders and reach their full potential.
Guatemala has the lowest level of female political participation in the hemisphere. We are working to change this by promoting women’s leadership at all levels of society.
Our goals are the pillars of creating a better future for all!
At MAIA, all of our programming and innovation are aligned with four goals for Girl Pioneers. Each goal is monitored through incremental growth measured annually to ensure that each Girl Pioneer is on a trajectory to reach her true potential.
At MAIA we have organizational values, that guide the organization and the staff members:
An organization centered on girls & their families
Perseverance
Ethic
Respect
Team work
Responsability
Every year at the MAIA Impact School, we welcome a new generation of Girl Pioneers. It is a transformative journey that changes the trajectory of the future of their lives, families, and the broader community.
With your investment, these remarkable young women will break cycles of poverty and build a brighter future.
