Volunteer
Volunteer with Trama Textiles
Join Our Women-Led Weaving Cooperative in Guatemala! Our volunteer program is a vital part of our organization and plays a key role in supporting Indigenous Maya women weavers and preserving ancestral textile traditions.
Trama Textiles is a women’s weaving cooperative; therefore, we primarily welcome women volunteers. If you are a highly motivated man who strongly aligns with our mission, your application may be considered, but we kindly ask that you contact the coordinator first.
Minimum commitment: 6 weeks
Maximum stay: 3 months
All volunteer positions are non-paid and fee-free.
Here at Trama Textiles, there are various opportunities available to volunteers. We have roles in content creation and social media, administration, communications, and fundraising. We highly value initiative and creativity, so any ideas from our volunteers on activities or projects are more than welcome!
All volunteers spend the first week learning how to weave! This gives them the opportunity to understand the weaving process and be better able to assist in the school. They can choose to weave a scarf, placemat, or table runner. The cost of this ranges from 60-120USD to cover materials and program expenses.
If you are passionate about ethical fashion, Maya backstrap weaving, community empowerment, and meaningful travel, we would love to welcome you to our community in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala.
Areas of Support
Our volunteer roles are structured around two main shifts, working closely with our coordinators.
Morning Shift (9:00 am – 2:00 pm)
This shift focuses on digital platforms, communication, and customer support.
1. Donations Assistant - Help raising money and donations campaign.
2. Marketing Assistant - Assist with content planning, scheduling, and posting across our social media channels. Help strengthen Trama’s voice and storytelling online. Support Trama’s online presence through digital marketing tasks and assistance with online platforms, including Shopify, product listings, and sales support.
3. Administrative Assistant - Support customer service through email and WhatsApp inquiries, assist with internal organization, and help maintain smooth daily operations related to sales and communication.
Afternoon Shift (1:00 pm – 6:00 pm)
This shift focuses on cultural programs, in-person experiences, and creative production.
1. Weaving assistant - Assist weavers with thread procedures, textile organization, and coordination related to weaving processes and custom orders. This role requires patience, attention to detail, and respect for traditional practices.
2. Physical Store Administrator - Attend visitors at Trama’s physical store, support daily store operations, and help keep the space organized and welcoming for customers and community members.
3. Graphic Designer & Content Creator - Support graphic design, photography, and video creation. Assist in documenting Trama’s work and participating in community visits and cultural activities.
4. Cultural Textile Experience Host - Work alongside the Creative Program Coordinator to support workshops, visits, and cultural textile experiences for guests and students.
Learning & Creativity Welcome
If you do not yet have experience in these areas, please let us know which role you are interested in learning. Motivation and openness are just as important as technical skills.
We also welcome creative projects, proposals, and new ideas that align with Trama’s mission and values.
Accommodation
Trama Textiles provides accommodation to their volunteers for 50USD per week. The house is right next door to the office making for an easy commute! There are four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen for volunteers to share. Volunteers are expected to follow a chore rotation to make sure shared spaces stay clean.
Other volunteers have found accommodation at Yoga House located a ten minute walk from the office or with home stays through various Spanish schools.
Day-to-Day Costs
The average cost of living in Xela can vary depending on your budget. It is a city with no shortage of delicious cafes and restaurants, as well as cheaper street food options and markets to buy fresh produce. Budget travelers can get by on less than Q80 (10USD) per day, while those who enjoy eating out regularly may want to allow for Q150 (20USD) per day.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining us, please fill this form which will help us get to know you better and understand how your skills, interests, and availability align with our current needs.We ask all applicants to answer sincerely and take the necessary time to complete the form.
For questions, contact us at volunteer@tramatextiles.org
We are happy to tailor your experience based on your skills, interests, and learning goals.
✨ We look forward to welcoming you into the Trama community.