Leadership Transition at MAIA
At MAIA we celebrate the journeys of Lidia Oxí and Andrea Coché—two remarkable Indigenous women whose leadership is driving impact across Guatemala and beyond. As Lidia transitions to a
November 4, 2024
There are many perspectives when it comes to educating future generations. MAIA’s innovative educational model integrates high-quality academics with family engagement and support.
“The presence and involvement of parents, both mothers and fathers, in the educational trajectory of each Girl Pioneer is very important. It is about the emotional attention they give to their daughters and the motivation to continue working toward their dreams and goals,” shares Isabel de la Cruz, Director of Socioemotional Development. “The involvement of parents has a great impact on each girl. When the family becomes their network of support, these brave young women are encouraged to be more resilient and perseverant,” continues Isabel.
The norm is to see mothers as the ones primarily involved in children’s education and development. At MAIA, we are challenging the status quo by “affirming, since the very beginning, the importance of the physical and emotional presence of both parents (or caretakers) to their daughters with their schooling, the transition to adolescence, the support during challenging times, and the celebration of achievements,” affirms Isabel. MAIA’s mentors are the ones who keep families motivated and connected to ensure they continue working towards a new shared vision of their future.
Since Ana became a Girl Pioneer and joined the MAIA Impact School, we have seen her father transitioning and adapting to a new ideology of a father’s role: one where both parents have shared responsibilities. Initially, he was not participating as frequently. Today he has been closer to his family, actively participating in visits and activities concerning Ana’s well-being and academic progression, and demonstrating unconditional support for her to achieve her goals and dreams. This has strengthened family unity.
For this family, the change of roles has been significant. Amanda’s mother has a business to take care of from their home, so her father’s support has been fundamental in her growth and evolution. He has shown openness to many topics that enhance participation and highlight the importance of girls’ education. He encourages his daughter to achieve her goals, demonstrating his role as her ally and advisor.
At MAIA we celebrate the journeys of Lidia Oxí and Andrea Coché—two remarkable Indigenous women whose leadership is driving impact across Guatemala and beyond. As Lidia transitions to a
Today, October 11th, we join the global celebration of the International Day of the Girl, honoring the potential and vision of girls everywhere.
As we celebrate this day, we are proud
At MAIA, education goes beyond the confines of traditional academics. The Socioemotional Mentorship and Family Engagement Program is central to MAIA’s educational model. It is a unique initiative designed to
MAIA USA
Tax Identification Number (EIN) 68-0652444
Asociación MAIA
Tax Identification Number (NIT) 6896913-9.
Guatemala Office:
Km. 137, Caserío Xolbé,
Cantón El Tablón, Sololá, Guatemala
US Office:
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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.