Volunteer
Volunteer with Trama Textiles
Join Our Women-Led Weaving Cooperative in Guatemala
Trama Textiles is a women-led Maya weaving cooperative based in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala. Our volunteer program supports cultural preservation, ethical fashion, community empowerment, and the continuation of ancestral textile traditions across Maya communities in the Western Highlands.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting the daily activities of the cooperative while participating in a meaningful intercultural exchange experience.
If you are passionate about ethical travel, Indigenous textile traditions, community-based work, and learning through cultural immersion, we would love to welcome you to Trama Textiles.
Volunteer Program Details
- Minimum commitment: 6 weeks
- Maximum stay: 3 months
- Volunteers usually support the organization approximately 4 hours per day
- All volunteer positions are unpaid
As a women-led cooperative working closely with Maya women artisans, we value respectful, community-centered, and culturally sensitive collaboration.
We welcome volunteers who genuinely connect with Trama’s mission, values, and commitment to ethical engagement and cultural preservation.
Introduction to Weaving & Cultural Orientation
All volunteers begin with an introductory week that includes:
- A weaving workshop
- An introduction to Trama Textiles
- Cultural orientation to Xela and the local community
This experience allows volunteers to better understand Maya backstrap weaving traditions and the work carried out by the cooperative.
Volunteers may choose to weave a scarf, placemat, or table runner. The weaving project fee ranges from 50–100 USD depending on the selected project and covers materials and program expenses.
Areas where volunteers may support
volunteers collaborate in different areas depending on ongoing projects, organizational needs, individual skills, and personal interests.
Areas of support may include:
Social Media, Content & Communication
Support photography, storytelling, content creation, social media planning, communication, and visual documentation of Trama’s activities and projects.
E-Commerce & Online Platforms
Assist with Shopify updates, product organization, online listings, digital platforms, and general support related to online sales.
Store & Workshop Support
Help support the physical store, weaving workshops, cultural activities, and visitor experiences while contributing to a welcoming community environment.
Cultural Storytelling & Visitor Experience
Engage with visitors, share Trama’s mission and cultural impact, and support experiences that connect guests with Maya textile traditions and community life.
Previous experience is not always required. We value motivation, adaptability, creativity, and willingness to learn just as much as technical skills.
We also encourage volunteers to share ideas, creative projects, workshops, or initiatives that align with Trama’s mission and values.
Accommodation
Volunteers may stay in Trama’s shared volunteer accommodation located next to the organization’s workspace and cultural center.
The accommodation cost is 50 USD per week and may include either a private or shared room depending on availability. Shared kitchen and bathroom spaces are available for volunteers.
Other volunteers have also chosen to stay at local homestays or nearby accommodations within Xela.
Living in Xela
Quetzaltenango (Xela) offers a rich cultural environment with local markets, cafes, Spanish schools, cultural events, and strong Maya identity.
Daily expenses vary depending on lifestyle, but budget travelers may spend around 15 USD per day, while those who frequently eat out or travel may spend more.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining our volunteer program, please complete the application form so we can learn more about your interests, skills, availability, and goals.
We kindly ask applicants to answer sincerely and take time completing the form.
📩 Questions?
Email: volunteer@tramatextiles.org
We look forward to welcoming you into the Trama community.