Ixchely Saloj: Leading through Resilience and Education
From facing barriers in her own education to becoming a role model for young indigenous women, Ixchely transforms every challenge into an opportunity to inspire.
August 11, 2025
Transforming realities through quality education
This October 11th, 2025, the world celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child, and for us at MAIA, it’s a double celebration: our anniversary!
In 2026, we are celebrating 18 years of transforming realities through education and empowerment. Together, we have built opportunities and accompanied generations of young Indigenous women who now inspire others to believe in their own power.
Eighteen years ago, we emerged from a powerful question:
That dream became reality with the creation of MAIA. Our first steps took shape through mentoring programs, which later evolved into scholarships. Yet we knew that wasn’t enough. We dared to dream bigger and innovate until we made it happen: we developed a unique holistic model—a space where every girl can discover her potential and transform her life.
Today, the Girl Pioneers are the reflection of that dream come true. They lead with empathy, vision, and commitment—in their classrooms, families, and communities. Meet some of the young women who are leading change:
Sandra, MAIA Girl Pioneer: “I’ve taken on leadership roles in my family, school, and church, where I’ve organized different activities and supported my group by offering guidance, motivation, and ideas. Leadership is not just about directing—it’s about inspiring, encouraging others, and listening.”
Eleany, MAIA graduate: “Through student leadership, I’ve influenced other youth to embrace a spirit of collaboration and participation. In the future, I see myself leading a program focused on mental health, helping people find emotional balance through connection with nature.”
Ángela, MAIA graduate: “Through my Instagram account, I invite young women to participate in digital activities. We build alliances and join monthly meetings with the Tejiendo Redes de Infancia organization. I love inspiring other young women to become leaders, to believe in themselves and not be afraid to face challenges—always seeking to learn and grow.”
Linda, MAIA Graduate: “MAIA gave me guidance and safe spaces where I lost the fear of raising my voice and could share my opinions. I received valuable tools for my personal growth. Now, I lead youth activities, and I feel proud that people trust me to guide them. I’ve been able to influence the role of women in education and local activism.”
These are just a few examples of the many Girl Pioneers who through quality education, mentorship, and empowerment have transformed their own realities.
Over the past 18 years, we have grown as an organization and impacted more than 2,000 people across 40 communities, including the Girl Pioneers, their families, and our team. Our work has been recognized globally: MAIA was named among the Top 10 Schools in the World for overcoming adversity, was recognized by the Obama Foundation, and has had our graduates and team members represent Guatemala and Indigenous women on international stages.
Today, we celebrate every success story, every step forward, and every voice raised—a reminder that change doesn’t just happen; we lead it together.
From facing barriers in her own education to becoming a role model for young indigenous women, Ixchely transforms every challenge into an opportunity to inspire.
This new Strategic Plan 2025-2029 clearly outlines our strategies for achieving long-term impact and systemic change in the communities we serve.
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
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.