
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
CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY
“One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.”
— Malala Yousafzai
Education is a human right, but one that’s impossible to embrace without literacy. For this, the world comes together every year on September 8th to celebrate International Literacy Day. Literacy is fundamental to providing individuals with relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies, transforming education, and shaping more sustainable and peaceful societies.
Approximately 496 million women worldwide cannot read and write – making up 2/3 of the illiterate population. This is especially true in Indigenous communities. Barriers such as geographic isolation, cultural differences, and economic hardships have prevented countless Indigenous girls from attending school. This lack of access perpetuates poverty cycles and threatens the preservation of their rich cultural heritage.
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS – PROJECT IMPULSO
The advent of COVID-19 has further impacted girls’ literacy development and has exacerbated the challenges girls in rural Guatemala already face.
For this, MAIA designed Project Impulso. After elementary school and before entering the Impact School, Girl Pioneers complete a yearlong full-time academic preparatory program to reinforce key areas like English, technology, math, reading and language arts, vocal empowerment, and mentorship. In 2023, 36 girls entered Project Impulso.
PRESERVING CULTURAL HERITAGE
At MAIA, we believe in the importance of cultural identity, and education is a tool for preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Indigenous communities. By integrating the Maya Kaqchikel language and traditional knowledge into the curriculum, we ensure that Girl Pioneers grow up with a strong sense of self and an appreciation for their cultural roots.
EVIDENCE FROM THE MAIA IMPACT SCHOOL
The long-term impacts of investing in girls’ education and literacy are staggering. They gain the skills and knowledge to advocate for their rights, contribute to their communities, and access better economic opportunities. Literacy also gives girls more control over their own futures – including when, whether, and whom they marry.
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:
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.