My name is María Aguja Maulhardt, and I have the privilege of serving as the coordinator of Trama Textiles. With a studies in Education, Administration, Human Rights and International Relations, I have always been passionate about giving lectures and connecting with people from diverse cultures. My roots span Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Germany, and this multicultural heritage has given me a deep appreciation for the richness of my background. Each day at Trama Textiles is an opportunity to work with foreigners eager to support our association and the indigenous women who are at its heart. These women embody resilience and strength, overcoming challenges daily simply because they are indigenous. It is an honor to share their talent and determination with the world.
Unfortunately, it saddens me that many Guatemalans don't value our textiles as they should. For those who have never woven, it’s hard to comprehend the dedication, effort, and love behind every piece. In our school, students often begin their weaving journey under the guidance of our master weavers, Amparo and Oralia. At first, they struggle with the process, but their faces light up with pride and satisfaction when they complete their first creation. Many of them return, captivated by the culture, art, and history woven into each thread.
Furthermore, one of the most delightful aspects of my role is listening to Oralia speak in her native Kaqchikel and Amparo in Mam, often mixed with a cheerful Hello for our foreign visitors. I sometimes translate conversations, though over the years, both Oralia and Amparo have learned to express themselves in English with essential terms like main color or push and pull for weaving. These moments highlight the beauty of communication across languages and cultures, creating meaningful connections that transcend borders.
The colors of Trama Textiles tell a powerful story—a story of the Maya people, who have endured centuries of struggle since the aggressive invasion of their lands. Despite this painful history, they continue to weave a future filled with hope and resilience. Each textile piece symbolizes not only beauty but also the strength of a culture that refuses to be forgotten, reminding us of the importance of working together for a better Guatemala.
Trama Textiles is more than just a business; it’s a second family for our volunteers and visitors. Many find us on while exploring Xela or through word of mouth, and they quickly become part of our community. Here, they support courageous women, many of whom lack formal education and face barriers such as illiteracy and limited Spanish proficiency. Yet, these women carry the legacy of our Maya ancestors in their hands, crafting textiles that preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage. I feel fortunate to work alongside inspiring leaders like Amparo and Oralia, who have taught me invaluable lessons and allowed me to grow both professionally and personally.
As a teacher by profession and someone deeply passionate about helping others, I am committed to creating meaningful opportunities for the children and teens who are relatives of our weavers. Through our scholarship programs, we aim to provide them with access to education, opening doors to brighter futures while preserving the weaving tradition.
Lastly, I feel privileged to learn from our volunteers, who bring their diverse experiences and professions to Trama Textiles. Their stories enrich our community and help us tackle challenges together. Thanks to the trust and support of countless individuals, we have made significant progress. However, there is still much work to be done. Every donation, technical contribution, or purchase directly supports our mission, ensuring that Trama Textiles continues to thrive and that our Maya culture remains vibrant.
I invite you to be part of this story. Each contribution helps us empower indigenous women and preserve the art of weaving for future generations. Thank you for supporting Trama Textiles!
Photo: Analissa Barbolini-Volunteer (2024-2025) and Italian Architect
Location: Quetzaltenango