Photo: Ellen learning backstrap weaving at Trama Textiles in Xela
Ellen (19) is taking a gap year before starting a Fine Art Degree at Newcastle University this autumn. After A-levels and a year of Art Foundation in the U.K., she wanted to do something completely different. The Language Gap arranged a 5 month stay in Guatemala, immersed in the language and culture in historical Antigua and then staying with a local homestay and volunteering with a fantastic organisation in the vibrant city of Quetzaltenango, known locally as Xela. She has thrown herself into the whole experience with positivity and enthusiasm and her feedback reflects the love she feels for this small country with a big heart:
"I have spent nearly 3 months in Xela, Guatemala, volunteering with Trama Textiles, an amazing organisation that helps to preserve the art of traditional Maya backstrap weaving and support Maya women across the region. Over the last 3 months, I have been doing graphic design for the organisation, and also learning to weave, which has been an amazing experience. I also took Spanish lessons in Xela and Antigua which were intense, but now I am endlessly grateful to have a better grasp of the language! At Trama, the school, and around the city, I have met so many amazing people, and made friends from all over the globe. With friends, I have climbed volcanoes like Acateriango and the Santiaguito Mirador, and seen otherworldly views and huge eruptions! Visiting the colourful, bustling markets in Salcaja and Chichicastenango has been amazing too, browsing gorgeous textiles and trying local street food including tacos, pupusas, dobladas and chuchitos. Now I'm leaving Xela to travel around Guatemala, but Xela is such a special place and I already know I want to return one day." ¡Felicidades, Ellen!
Photo: Ellen up Acatenango Volcano with Fuego in the background.