Global Workshops: GUATEMALA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who will teach the Global Workshop?
Maiensy Sanchez and Jennifer Geist have worked for The Language Link since its inception in 2002. Having been born and raised in Cuba, lived in Mexico and the US, Maiensy is a true global citizen. Author of several cross-cultural communications curricula, Jennifer has over 15 years of experience creating global education opportunities for young people. Both are fluent in Spanish and English, and bring unique skills to meet the needs of students and their families. Feel free to request references and resumes.
What is the ANIA Youth Garden?
This beautiful Children’s Land concept was developed in Peru by Joaquín Leguía of Mundo ANIA (The Association for Children and the Environment). Like most indigenous people, the Incans understood their interdependence with the earth. They knew they needed the earth’s bounty to live, but were also responsible to guard and share the earth with other beings. ANIA is devoted to teaching these concepts and skills to children, and there are now 
ANIA Children’s Lands in Peru, Chile, India, Brazil, Columbia and Scotland! Global Workshop will create the first ANIA Garden in the United States AND support our friends in Guatemala to do the same!
How does photography and movie making fit in?
With the amazing advances in digital technology, we can now narrow the gaps that separate us from the many amazing cultures around the world. Our youth now have the opportunity to share who they really are with their global peers. These skills are the beginning stages of owning the media messages that arrive in other countries well before we do. Using technology communication tools to communicate our real selves is essential for global cooperation and true problem solving to take place, starting now.
Do we have to go on the trip in order to participate in Global Workshop?
The Spring and Summer 2011 Workshops are designed for students to begin learning about Guatemala and to build their commitment to making the trip during mid-winter break. Fall 2011 and Winter 2012 sessions will be largely devoted to preparing for the trip and will be open only to families who are able to make a commitment to travel. The Language Link will offer an alternative workshop for students who are unable to travel in February.
How much will it cost for session four which includes the 10 day trip to Guatemala?
The estimated cost is $1800 per student and $1400 per chaperone/parent. The session includes 13 two hour workshops to prepare for the trip and follow up afterwards (students only), 2 family orientation nights (all travelers), all in-country travel, all instruction in Guatemala, accommodations, most meals, excursions and a donation to support our partners in Guatemala. The estimated cost will be reduced as students succeed raising money for their travels. International airfare is not included. One parent per student is required unless special arrangements are made.
How will families be included in the trip planning and preparation?
Each Session will include a Family Night in which parents and siblings can join their middle school student to learn more about our partners in Guatemala and the culture we are exploring. In late fall, we will begin a series of family nights dedicated to preparing family members with basic language and culture lessons, in addition to trip logistics and preparations.
Who are the partners in Guatemala?
We will partner with students from Amigos de Santa Cruz and Fotokids along the shores of Lake Atitlán. In addition, we will partner with Probigua, an NGO in Antigua dedicated to increasing literacy in Guatemala. Between these three organizations, students will come to know a Guatemala that is forward thinking, progressive and ready to join with others to improve life on the planet. More information about the trip, itinerary and activities, will be available in our April Information Sessions.