Vision
Indigenous leadership and participation with autonomy across local, regional and national levels in Guatemala, enabling Maya communities to live a just and dignified life.
Purpose
Catalyze ethnodevelopmentA development model driven by Indigenous people and based on respect for, and strengthening of, Indigenous cultural identity, forms of community organization, and a harmonious relationship with nature. with community organization and leadership - rooted in Indigenous values and knowledge - through holistic strategies to strengthen Maya communities.
Indigenous autonomy:
Indigenous communities not only participate in, but also lead, the processes that affect their lives, recognizing and exercising individual and collective rights in an environment of equity, justice, and equality.
Ethnodevelopment:
A development model driven by Indigenous people and based on respect for, and strengthening of, Indigenous cultural identity, forms of community organization, and a harmonious relationship with nature.
Our objectives
Read our full strategic and Impact Report 2026-2030
Strategic Threads
Natün's commitment is centered on the ethnodevelopment of communities. This path is guided by six cross-cutting strategic threads that weave the programs together in the loom of development - closely aligning with the importance of weaving in the Maya culture.
Each of these threads runs through and intertwines the education, economic, health, and nutrition programs, connecting knowledge and practices. By weaving them together, a strong and colorful fabric is formed, where equity, justice, and inclusion are not just ideals, but living realities that are strengthened day by day to achieve systemic, long-term impact.
1. Cultural Relevance
Recognize, respect, and promote the knowledge, practices, principles, and values of Indigenous communities.
2. Leadership & Advocacy
Strengthen local leadership capacities to advocate for and build more just, resilient, and dignified Indigenous communities.
3. Partnerships for Systemic Change
Connect and reinforce efforts between communities, institutions, and local leaders to strengthen ethnodevelopment.
4. Indigenous Rights
Contribute to the exercise and full realization of Indigenous communities’ individual and collective human rights.
5. Gender Equity
Reduce gender gaps in social, economic, and political spheres, grounded in the Maya principle of duality and complementarity - recognizing women and men as distinct, equally valued, and interdependent, contributing in balance to collective harmony. Since then, Natün has transformed into an organization led by Indigenous leaders, focused on systemic change for the ethnodevelopment of Maya communities.
6. Environment
Promote the conservation of Mother Nature based on Indigenous ancestral values, principles and practices to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Our Programs
Nutrition & Health Program
Improves the nutrition and health of women and children through a holistic approach that strengthens prevention, self-care, and the availability of healthy foods.
Education Program
Fosters the personal, community, and social development of children and adolescents by strengthening their leadership, communication, identity, science and technology skills, through culturally relevant curricula and the active participation of families.
Economic Development Program
Improves community economic autonomy, through capacity building in entrepreneurship and business skills, with technical and financial support.
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Summary of Strategy
This pyramid illustrates our theory of change, inspired both by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and by the design of Maya temples, which rise step by step toward greater wisdom and autonomy. Its triangular shape also reflects the Maya understanding of balance between the three essential corners of life: Humans, Nature, and the Universe.
At the base, our programs meet fundamental needs by providing resources and access to services that support children and youth as they grow. As the pyramid rises, we strengthen security and stability through prevention, training, and capacity building.
Higher levels represent our strategic threads, which strengthen cultural relevance, rights, equity, and partnerships; followed by participation, recognition, leadership, and advocacy. These layers address deeper collective needs and create the conditions for long-term change.
At the summit is our vision: Indigenous autonomy and ethnodevelopment, achieved when all three corners of the triangle are in balance and communities have the power to shape their own futures.
Our Core Values
Cooperation
We work as a kind, effective and supportive team in collaboration with the communities.
Reciprocity
We believe in dignified, equitable relationships with communities, fostering agency, active participation and service to others.
Humility
We recognize our role as facilitators, centering and valuing local expertise. We evolve based on constant learning and self-improvement.
Respect
We treat all people kindly and fairly, with dignity and empathy.
Transparency
We have reasonable, justified and clearly communicated processes and use of resources.
Accountability
We thoughtfully and responsibly manage our resources to ensure both efficient use and intentional impact.
Integrity
We act honestly and ethically, thereby earning the trust and confidence of both communities and supporters.
Our Partners
Where We Work and Why
Natün works in the department of Sololá, in the Western Highlands of Guatemala, where 96% of the population is Indigenous and the region is rich in Maya culture. Despite this strength, generations of historical exclusion, underfunded systems, and deep inequities have limited opportunity – particularly for Maya women and youth – and 76% of the population lives in poverty. That’s why we work alongside rural Indigenous communities as they lead efforts to build opportunity, equity, and dignity.
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Natün Guatemala is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization. EIN 20-8433997.
