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AK' TENAMIT means "New Village" in Q'eqchi',
a Mayan language spoken in Guatemala.

How We Do It: Mayan Community-Led Development

The Guatemalan Tomorrow Fund supports the work of Ak’ Tenamit, which operates on a powerful, holistic model. Our approach is rooted in the belief that lasting change must be indigenous-led, ensuring the path to development is defined by the Q’eqchi’ people themselves. We do not treat poverty as a singular problem, but address the vital, interconnected dimensions of culture, economy, and well-being.

360° Vision: Rooted in the Mayan Worldview

When Ak’ Tenamit was conceived, it was in direct response to a request from indigenous leaders seeking a sustainable way forward. Our innovative core is built upon the profound respect and validation of the Mayan Cosmovisión (Worldview) and Ancestral Knowledge.

The community’s vision addresses every dimension of life—but critically, it grounds these modern development concepts in tradition:

  • Interdependence of Health and Culture: We frame topics like reproductive health and disease prevention within the context of traditional values and cultural identity. This approach ensures that essential public health solutions are embraced by the community and are never dismissed as “external” ideas.
  • Education as a Life Practice: Our innovative Modalidad de Aprendizaje Tutorial (MAT) model extends education far beyond the classroom. Students continuously return home to replicate and apply their vocational training (in sustainable tourism, community development, etc.), directly connecting their learning to the immediate improvement of their family and village life.
  • Sustainability and Resource Management: Our work recognizes the vital connection between the community and its natural environment. We promote sustainable practices alongside income generation—such as fair trade and eco-tourism—ensuring economic activity protects the protected forest areas they call home.

360° Participation: Empowering Agents of Change

We achieve lasting change by shifting the focus from external aid to internal empowerment. We believe that every community member holds the solution.

  • Leaders as Essential Resources: Ak’ Tenamit rejects traditional development models that view poor communities as the “problem.” Instead, we systematically identify and empower villagers as the essential resources who will drive their own development.
  • Focus on Women and Youth: We prioritize the identification, training, and continuous education of community leaders, especially women and youth. Our students become proven agents of change who lead the long-term, self-sustainable growth of their villages.
  • True Community Ownership: The association is formally and legally led by a Q’eqchi’ Maya Board of Directors, elected directly by the beneficiary communities. This structure ensures that all institutional decisions are made by the people we serve, embodying the principle of self-determination.