Cultural Leadership Fellowship Stories

Guatemala 2024

Our last winter cohort embarked on an extraordinary journey to Guatemala, accompanied by 19 DACA recipients, where we explored the wonders of Lake Atitlàn, Antigua, and Péten! At Lake Atitlàn, we were humbled by our visit to a women’s cooperative, diving deep into the realms of indigenous fabrics, beekeeping, and the artistry of artisanal chocolate.

In Antigua, we were captivated by the story of volcanic ash enriching the soil, nurturing the world-renowned Guatemalan coffee, while indulging in the flavors of traditional cuisine and immersing ourselves in local customs.

Our last stop was in Péten where we got to explore the magical Mayan ruins of Tikal, this was an unforgettable experience as some of us hiked into the jungle to watch the sunrise from a Maya temple.

The Cultural Leadership Fellows and Scholar Fund staff in Guatemala.

Kicked off in Tikal, one of the largest protected archeological sites in the world. Tikal was the most powerful kingdom in ancient Maya and has numerous pyramids and temples, including over 80% that have not been excavated.
We visited Antigua, Guatemala, the former capital of the country until natural disasters destroyed and destabilized the city. Currently, it is still a city blooming in culture, arts, and history, and has a splendid view of the Volcan de Agua.
Lago Atitlan is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, surrounded by three volcanos and inhabited by many indigenous communities. We traveled across the lake, in a lancha, from one town to another and were immersed in the arts and music that have lived in these communities through generations.


Kevin and Zayda's Experience

Image of Jose in Guatemala

Kevin: “When accepted into the CLF program, I was filled with excitement followed by a mixture of emotions. I’ve always wanted to explore my country and visit all the beautiful places my father always spoke of. A privilege I knew not even my own family back in Guate has had or maybe will never even have the opportunity to do.I took something away from every destination and tour that was planned out for us by the program and with the guidance of our kind leaders Renata and Rossio who were always so patient and willing to answer any questions we might have.But of all the beautiful destinations we visited, Tikal was the destination that filled me with the most joy and sadness at the same time (a weird feeling to experience such a high and low at once). My father often spoke of the wonders of Tikal, expressing it as his beloved destination in Guatemala. Even though we couldn't explore it side-by-side, his spirit seemed to be with me with every step I took.Overall, I experienced a mixture of privilege, happiness, and a touch of sadness, but I am mostly grateful for the opportunity to experience mi bella Guate with such an amazing group of people.”

Zayda: “My experience with CLF was truly life changing. Not only I was able to reunite with my grandparents after 20 years, but I was also able see the most beautiful places in Guatemala. The whole trip itself was so memorable and I am so thankful that I was able to experience it with a wonderful group of people.”