How I Put My Marketing Skills to Meaningful Use in a Female-Led Weaving Co-operative
What inspired you to volunteer in Guatemala?:
After studying Spanish with Spanish Marks for several years, I wanted to experience real-life Spanish immersion while giving back. Volunteering in Guatemala felt like the perfect way to combine language learning, cultural exchange, and meaningful travel. It gave me the chance to explore a beautiful country while contributing to a local community project.
How did we support your volunteer journey?:
The team at Spanish Marks made the entire process seamless. They arranged a volunteer placement with Trama Textiles, a women-led weaving cooperative in Xela (Quetzaltenango). The cooperative was looking for help with marketing, social media, and website updates, which matched my background perfectly. It was an amazing opportunity to use my professional skills to support a sustainable, female-run organisation.
What was your experience volunteering with Trama Textiles?:
It was incredibly rewarding. The women at Trama Textiles were so welcoming and passionate about preserving traditional Mayan weaving. I also got to meet other international volunteers and learn about their experiences. Every day felt meaningful—whether helping promote their work online or simply sharing stories with the artisans in the workshop..
What’s it like living and volunteering in Xela?:
Volunteering in Xela (Quetzaltenango) offers a truly authentic experience. It’s less touristy than other parts of Guatemala, so you get to see real everyday life. On weekends, there’s so much to explore—from volcano hikes around the city to trips to Lake Atitlán and other scenic spots. I stayed with a local host family, which made it easy to practice Spanish daily. It was total language and cultural immersion, and my Spanish improved dramatically in just a few weeks!
Would you recommend volunteering in Guatemala through us?:
Absolutely! Rustom and Sandy were wonderful hosts and always available for advice, support, and recommendations. As a solo traveller, it was reassuring to have local contacts who genuinely cared about my experience. Volunteering in Guatemala through Spanish Marks was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made—an inspiring mix of travel, community engagement, and Spanish learning that I’ll never forget.
