Due to stereotypes and cultural norms, numerous misconceptions exist around women’s and girls’ access, participation, and success in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics). However, STEAM education has many benefits for girls, from building confidence in their STEAM skills and abilities to developing problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
At the MAIA Impact School, we are implementing an innovative curriculum designed to promote and boost the academic preparation of Girl Pioneers around science, technology, and art disciplines with a focus on creating knowledge and know-how.
Additionally, the school is equipped with an advanced science laboratory where girls can deepen their knowledge and get hands-on experience through practical learning.
Equally, we consider arts education fundamental to Girl Pioneers’ academic preparation. It improves creativity, motivation, and concentration and is associated with gains in math, reading, cognitive abilities, and verbal skills.
We know that to succeed in the formal economy and university, Girl Pioneers need to hone the competencies, skills, and knowledge needed in the 21st century. For this reason, with coaching from Team4Tech and the Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, we are redesigning our technology curriculum with the goal of strengthening key competencies and skills and integrating technology into additional academic areas such as literature, mathematics, science, and social studies.
A key strategy that guarantees the success of this academic model lies in the concept that “if she can see it, she can be it!” The ethnicity and gender mirroring ensures critical empathy and cultural relevance at every juncture. We are not only opening up concrete opportunities for Girl Pioneers to fully explore their talents and live choice-filled lives; we are also demonstrating that reversing the status quo is possible.
When girls and women lead in innovation and arts, they make them more inclusive, impact a larger population, and act as role models for more girls to get involved in these fields in the future!
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.
