My name is María Aguja Maulhardt, and I am honored to serve as the coordinator of Trama Textiles.
With a background in Education, Administration, Human Rights, and International Relations, I have always been passionate about giving lectures and connecting with people from different cultures. My heritage spans Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Germany, offering me a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for my roots. At Trama Textiles, every day is an opportunity to work alongside foreigners who are eager to support our association and the incredible indigenous women who are its foundation. These women exemplify strength and resilience, overcoming daily challenges simply because they are indigenous. Sharing their stories, talent, and determination with the world is a privilege.
It saddens me, however, that many Guatemalans don’t recognize the value of our textiles. Without firsthand experience in weaving, it’s hard to understand the dedication, effort, and love behind every creation. At our weaving school, students begin their journey under the guidance of master weavers Amparo and Oralia. While the process is challenging at first, the pride and joy on their faces when they complete their first piece are unforgettable. Many students return, captivated by the culture, artistry, and history woven into every thread.
One of my favorite aspects of my role is hearing Oralia speak Kaqchikel and Amparo speak Mam, often interspersed with cheerful "hellos" for our international visitors. Sometimes I translate conversations, but over the years, both Oralia and Amparo have learned essential English terms like “main color” and “push and pull” for weaving. These moments beautifully illustrate the power of communication across languages and cultures, fostering connections that transcend borders.
The vibrant colors of Trama Textiles tell the story of the Maya people, who have endured centuries of struggle since the invasion of their lands. Despite this painful history, they continue to weave a future of hope and strength. Each piece represents not only beauty but also the resilience of a culture that refuses to be forgotten, reminding us all of the importance of working together for a better Guatemala.
Trama Textiles is much more than a business—it’s a second family for volunteers and visitors. Many discover us while exploring Xela or through word of mouth, quickly becoming part of our community. Here, they support courageous women, many of whom face barriers like illiteracy, limited Spanish proficiency, and lack of formal education. Despite these challenges, these women carry the legacy of our Maya ancestors, preserving and celebrating cultural heritage through their craft. Working alongside leaders like Amparo and Oralia has been a gift, teaching me lessons that have shaped me both professionally and personally.
As a teacher by profession and someone passionate about helping others, I am committed to creating meaningful opportunities for the children and teens connected to our weavers. Our scholarship programs are designed to provide access to education, opening doors to brighter futures while honoring the weaving tradition.
Finally, I am grateful to learn from our volunteers, who bring their diverse skills and stories to Trama Textiles. Their contributions enrich our work and help us overcome challenges together. Thanks to the trust and support of so many, we have made remarkable progress, but there is still much to do. Every donation, technical contribution, or purchase directly strengthens our mission, ensuring Trama Textiles thrives and Maya culture remains vibrant.
I invite you to join us in this journey. Your support empowers indigenous women and helps preserve the art of weaving for generations to come. Thank you for being a part of Trama Textiles!
Photo: Analissa Barbolini-Volunteer (2024-2025) and Italian Architect
Location: Quetzaltenango