Celebrating MAIA Girl Pioneers on the International Day of the Girl
Today, October 11th, we join the global celebration of the International Day of the Girl, honoring the potential and vision of girls everywhere. This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” highlights the bold dreams and aspirations that young women are shaping for themselves, their communities, and the world.
At MAIA, we witness the transformational power of education and empowerment firsthand through the Girl Pioneer graduates, who are charting bold new trajectories in higher education, professional careers, and social activism. Their stories demonstrate what can happen when young women are given the tools and opportunities to lead. As we celebrate this day, we are proud to share the inspiring journeys of Azucely, Yesenia, and Ana Miriam, three Maya Kaqchikel young women from Sololá, Guatemala, and Girl Pioneer graduates whose futures are as bright as their visions.
I feel a sense of social responsibility, and while it can be overwhelming, I know I have a purpose that I must pursue. I want to be a voice for change, showing that education is not just a privilege but a right that should be accessible to all women.
Yesenia has transformed her journey from feeling uncertain about her future to embracing a path of growth and empowerment. In 2023, she completed her internship at Intercop RL as a management assistant and is currently thriving in the same role.
After graduation, Yesenia felt hesitant and unsure of her next steps. However, the support and unique training she received from MAIA’s staff through the Launch Year program played a pivotal role in her transformation. Through workshops and hands-on experiences, Yesenia gained confidence in her abilities and realized the potential she had to succeed.
But that is not all of her story. Yesenia is also pursuing a degree in business administration, where she applies her skills and fosters critical thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
My goal is to prepare myself professionally to help society and prove that we can achieve our dreams with determination and resilience. Every day, I strive to overcome challenges in my studies and work. I feel grateful for the support of my parents and especially MAIA, which has helped me recognize my abilities through various courses. I aspire to empower more girls to reach their goals just as I have.
Her journey is a powerful reminder that with determination and support, anything is possible.
Ana Miriam has overcome countless challenges with courage and resilience. In 2023, she won a full scholarship through the AFS Exchange Programs and completed her senior year of high school in Ontario, Canada—an opportunity she had dreamed of since she was a little girl.
Though adjusting to life in Canada was challenging due to language barriers, Ana Miriam persevered. She improved her academic performance, shared her Guatemalan culture with classmates, and delivered a speech on The Power of Language, which earned the admiration of her peers.
Today, Ana Miriam is back in Guatemala, working at Cemaco in Quetzaltenango through the Guatemala government’s Beca Mi Primer Empleo (My First Job Scholarship).
I am a woman with a strong desire to care for others and create a more transparent world. I want to motivate the new generations to become agents of change in their communities and countries.
The stories of Azucely, Yesenia, and Ana Miriam are powerful testaments to what is possible when girls have access to education, mentorship, and the opportunities they deserve. They are not just dreaming of a better future—they are building it. Their visions extend far beyond personal success; they are shaping a more equitable, inclusive world for everyone.
As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl, we are reminded that investing in girls’ education is investing in the future. These Girl Pioneers prove that when we empower young women, we unlock their potential to transform their own lives and the lives of others.
Let’s continue celebrating and supporting these bold trailblazers who are creating a brighter future for all.
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:
1031 33rd Street, Denver, CO 80205
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.
