Why Guatemala
Guatemala faces significant challenges, with poverty affecting over half of its population. In 2023, it was estimated that 55% of the population lived in poverty. The situation is even more severe among indigenous communities, where approximately 75% live in poverty. Rural areas are particularly impacted, accounting for 91% of those living in extreme poverty.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions. At Empowered Guatemala, we are committed to addressing these disparities by empowering communities through education, scholarships, and mentorship. Our goal is to create opportunities that foster self-sufficiency and strengthen the social fabric of the regions we serve.
Board Members
100% Volunteer Driven
Who We Are
Empowered Guatemala is a 100% volunteer-driven organization led by a dedicated board of directors. Our team includes members who regularly travel to our partner communities in Guatemala multiple times each year. We collaborate closely with local leaders who actively engage in their own fundraising efforts to complement our initiatives. By working hand-in-hand with community councils, we ensure that our programs are locally led and culturally resonant.
Our Staff
Eduardo Aquino Lara
English Teacher
Eduardo was born and raised in Antigua, Guatemala. He was educated from K-12 grades at a bilingual school. After university he moved from Antigua to Chichicastenango with his wife. He works for a US company remotely and has years of experience teaching English. He teaches our intermediate learners.
Zila Ordóñez
Librarian and Director
Zila Ordoñez is a lifelong resident of Chichicastenango, Guatemala, and a deeply respected member of her community. A trained teacher and passionate advocate for children, Zila brings both professional experience and cultural understanding to her role as librarian for Empowered Guatemala.As the library’s local representative, Zila plans and leads educational and enrichment activities for children, teens, and adults of all ages. Her strong connection to local traditions, beliefs, and families makes her uniquely qualified to support Empowered Guatemala’s mission.
Juan Carlos Xirum
Juan Carlos was born and raised in Chichicastenango, the youngest of eight children. He has always been driven to succeed and was a distinguished student in diversificado. He is currently attending university on a full scholarship to study systems engineering and works part-time in the library coordinating projects and assisting the director.
Haydee Chuc Xon
English Teacher
Haydee lives in Chichicastenango, Guatemala. She graduated as a bilingual secretary (English and Spanish). This is when she started her journey to being bilingual in English. She has been studying English for nine years and continues to study to keep her skills sharp. For the past five years she has been offering her services as a bilingual translator for medical and mission groups all over the country of Guatemala. She brings her hard working spirit and kind soul to her teaching of beginner English students.