Internships


Academic Internship Program (4–12 Months)

Be an international intern at Trama Textiles and gain hands-on experience in ethical fashion, cultural preservation, community-based work, and intercultural exchange in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala.

At Trama Textiles, interns become part of a women-led Maya weaving cooperative that supports more than 150 artisans across 17 communities in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. Our internship program combines professional development with meaningful cultural immersion and collaborative community engagement.

What to Expect

Interns support ongoing projects and daily activities across different areas of the organization depending on their interests, skills, academic background, and Trama’s current needs.

Rather than fixed positions, the program encourages collaborative learning, flexibility, and active participation within the cooperative’s dynamic environment.

Areas where interns may support include:

  • Social Media, Content & Communication
    (photography, storytelling, social media, visual content, communication support)
  • E-Commerce & Online Platforms
    (Shopify updates, product organization, digital platforms, online store support)
  • Store & Workshop Support
    (supporting the physical store, cultural workshops, and visitor activities)
  • Cultural Storytelling & Visitor Experience
    (sharing Trama’s story, engaging with visitors, and supporting cultural experiences)

Internship Commitment

Internships require a minimum stay of 4 months and may extend up to 12 months depending on academic requirements and project availability.

Interns collaborate with the organization throughout the week while participating in ongoing cultural, educational, and community activities.

We welcome applications from universities, students, researchers, and recent graduates interested in socially engaged and community-centered learning experiences.

Life in Quetzaltenango (Xela)

Interning at Trama is both professional and cultural. Located in the heart of Xela, interns experience daily life within a vibrant city rich in Maya identity, textile traditions, historic architecture, and community life.

Interns may experience:

  • Cultural immersion in Guatemala
  • Opportunities to practice Spanish
  • Direct learning through artisan traditions
  • Participation in workshops and community activities
  • Meaningful connections with local people and fellow volunteers

Affordable volunteer accommodation is available for USD $160 per month and includes access to a shared community environment near Trama’s workspace and cultural activities.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome students and recent graduates interested in:

  • Marketing, Communications & Graphic Design
  • Fashion, Photography & Visual Arts
  • Business, Administration & E-Commerce
  • Anthropology, Sustainability & Latin American Studies
  • Human Rights, Gender Studies & International Relations

We value applicants who are respectful, adaptable, collaborative, and genuinely interested in ethical engagement with Indigenous communities and cultural preservation.

Interested?

Please fill out our application form.

📩 For questions or additional information:
Email: coordinator@tramatextiles.org

 

Let your academic internship share communitary /administrative work —from Guatemala to the world.