The GuateMaya Service and Immersion Trip, led by Erin Beezley, Hope Ignites’ Director of Experiential Learning and Youth Development, is more than just sightseeing, it’s a deep dive into culture, connection, and service.
The 2025 trip brought scholars from across the U.S. to Guatemala, where they quickly bonded with one another and connected with team members from Esperanza Juvenil in Guatemala City. From the moment they arrived, the experience encouraged them to expand their perspectives, starting with a warm welcome and an eye-opening conversation with Lucas Pinzon, Executive Director of Esperanza Juvenil, who shared the unique challenges and triumphs of students in Guatemala, particularly the importance of educational equity for girls.
Enrichment Through Service
Over the course of the trip, scholars immersed themselves in daily life at both the elementary and high school campuses, shadowing students, leading classroom activities, and forming real connections. They also gave back through service in the rural village of Tecpán, working alongside the community on a school improvement project and even camping overnight on-site to fully embrace the spirit of teamwork and shared purpose.
Scholar Reflections
Our scholars Breezy and Nancy, and alumni and staff member David, were among those given the opportunity to travel to Guatemala this summer. For many, the most memorable moments came from building relationships. “The best part of the trip was being able to spend time in the school, especially with the elementary schoolers that were so welcoming and kind,” shared Breezy. Nancy added, “When we said goodbye, it was incredible to see the impact we made because they wrote letters for us and did a traditional dance.”
David reflected on the value of shared service: “My favorite part of the whole trip was being able to spend time doing meaningful service that not only helped the community but also allowed us to learn from them. The food was a close second.” He also noted how it shifted his perspective: “It never crosses your mind to ask yourself: what if my shower only runs cold or is my drinking water safe for me. Being grateful for where I am and who I have become in memory of our hosts’ soothing words: no pasa nada.”
For Breezy, the experience was deeply personal: “Being Guatemalan, it hit harder for me, seeing my people and how hard they worked. It made me realize how lucky I was to have opportunities like Hope Ignites Phoenix also made me want to give back even more. Those kids deserve the world.”
Carrying It Forward
Each scholar came home with a renewed sense of gratitude and growth. “From time to time, you will experience things you aren’t necessarily prepared for,” David shared. “But that is where growth happens and being there for each other is key.” Breezy summed it up best: “It is truly a perspective-altering experience. Do everything with an open mind and heart. Please do it, take that chance. I promise you will not regret it.”