The first time Ayanna Releford visited Guatemala, she came as a tourist. The experience left a lasting impression—and when she later saw an opportunity to volunteer internationally, she saw a chance to experience Guatemala in a different way.
Ayanna already had experience teaching English virtually, but she wanted the opportunity to take her teaching beyond a screen and into a classroom. When she discovered the opportunity to volunteer with Natün, she brought her experience into the Education Program, where she taught English to youth and collaborated with Natün’s English teacher, Profe. Erick.
Her time with Natün was an opportunity not only to share her knowledge in the classroom, but to collaborate with the team on resources that can continue supporting youth through 2028.
Learning Goes Both Ways
From the beginning, Ayanna’s experience was grounded in collaboration.
Rather than arriving with a predetermined curriculum or approach, Ayanna worked alongside Profe. Erick to understand what students needed, build on existing materials, and contribute ideas and resources that could continue supporting English learning.
For Ayanna, that curiosity became one of the most meaningful parts of her experience. She saw students continually asking questions, engaging with new ideas, and pushing themselves to improve. That same spirit has influenced her own approach to teaching throughout the years, and being surrounded by students who were eager to learn pushed her to continue challenging herself as well.
Teaching in Natün’s partner communities also allowed Ayanna to experience the Education Program beyond the office. Moving between different learning spaces and meeting students where they were gave her a broader perspective on the communities Natün partners with and the importance of creating learning environments where students feel comfortable participating and asking questions.
Her work with the team also extended beyond classroom instruction. Ayanna contributed to reviewing and developing curriculum and resources that can continue supporting youth for years to come.
For Ayanna, the experience was not simply about bringing her skills to Guatemala. It was also about learning from the students, connecting with communities, and contributing to resources that can continue to support young people long after her time with Natün ended.
Beyond the Classroom
Ayanna’s experience wasn’t limited to the classroom.
During her time in Guatemala, she lived in Panajachel and had the opportunity to experience daily life in the community, get to know the people around her, and connect with Guatemala in a way that was different from her first visit.
She describes feeling welcomed and accepted throughout her stay, from the hospitality she experienced in Guatemala to the Natün team and students who made her feel connected to the community.
And while she came with skills and experience to share, the relationships she built and the moments she spent with her students became some of the most memorable parts of her experience.
Hear Ayanna’s Experience
What does it look like when teaching becomes an exchange of ideas, trust, and curiosity?
In the video below, Ayanna shares her favorite moments with her students, how trust created space for learning, and what made her experience with Natün so meaningful.
Watch Ayanna reflect on her experience teaching with Natün.
“I think that if anyone is interested in partnering with Natün, it would be an experience of a lifetime. Not only is the staff incredibly kind and helpful, but they’re also so eager to welcome fresh faces who are willing to contribute and support the community.”
Interested in contributing your skills?
Natün welcomes volunteers and interns who are interested in learning, collaborating, and contributing to community-led work in Guatemala. Opportunities can vary depending on program needs and the skills a volunteer or intern brings, with placements connected to our three programs in education, nutrition & health, and economic development.
Whether you are a student looking for an internship, a professional interested in sharing your skills, or someone seeking a meaningful way to contribute, there may be an opportunity to partner with the Natün team.
Learn more about our volunteer and internship opportunities and how you can become part of the work.
Email us at info@natunguatemala.org
