Mentoring a Rising Generation of Leaders in Guatemala

Mentorship is one of the cornerstones of our work and is key to our success. It’s an investment in the soft skills that aren’t normally a priority in traditional schools. Centered their model around empowerment, MAIA’s mentors support Girl Pioneers to build resiliency, overcome challenges, achieve goals, learn about their rights, become active members in bettering society, and implement routines that are vital for healthy youth development. MAIA’s mentorship programs instill confidence in students and improve their interpersonal skills. Youth development is especially important in Guatemala where almost half of the population is under age 18.

Mentors at the MAIA Impact School wear various hats—most comparable to a mixture of teacher, guidance counselor, school psychologist, and friend. They lead their mentorship group through a curriculum that delves into topics that wouldn’t otherwise be discussed at school or at home. Mentors don’t just impart lessons; they listen, give advice, challenge, and encourage Girl Pioneers to reflect upon their own lives. Their job is to help the girls in whatever capacity is needed so they can achieve their goals.

Becoming a MAIA mentor is a rigorous process. The qualities we look for when hiring mentors is the ability to listen and offer encouragement, adapt to a variety of situations, find solutions, and, above all, demonstrate empathy. Five of our six current mentors are former Girl Pioneers. They understand the challenges their mentees are facing because they come from the same communities, speak the same Mayan language, and understand the local context.