Presented by Friendship Bridge

Event Recording: How Maya Women are Responding to the Economic Landscape of Guatemala

About This Event

Guatemala is the largest economy among the Central American countries in terms of population size and economic activity; however, widespread inequality continues to leave indigenous communities, especially Maya women, with limited access to opportunity.

We invite you to join us for this recorded virtual seminar bringing together development advocates to explore Guatemala’s economic environment and the essential role of women in building a more inclusive future. Together, we will examine economic challenges for women globally, the importance of international development efforts and NGOs like Friendship Bridge, and more.

About This Event

Guatemala is the largest economy among the Central American countries in terms of population size and economic activity; however, widespread inequality continues to leave indigenous communities, especially Maya women, with limited access to opportunity.

We invite you to join us for this recorded virtual seminar bringing together development advocates to explore Guatemala’s economic environment and the essential role of women in building a more inclusive future. Together, we will examine economic challenges for women globally, the importance of international development efforts and NGOs like Friendship Bridge, and more.

Hosted by Friendship Bridge and Angelica Docog of the San Antonio Friendship Circle

Confirmed Speakers Include:

Gabriela García

Gabriela García
Minister of the Economy of Guatemala

As Minister of the Economy of Guatemala, Gabriela García brings over 25 years of experience in economic development, trade promotion, and foreign investment. She holds degrees in Development Project Management and International Relations from American University in Washington, D.C., and has worked with organizations such as the AMBI Foundation, CIRCULA, and Mujer Emprende. Her career spans leadership in both governmental and nonprofit sectors, with a strong focus on gender equity, child protection, and economic opportunity.

Dan Alonso

Dan Alonso
CEO of Ten Thousand Villages®

Dan Alonso has served as CEO of Ten Thousand Villages® since 2022, following a decade of volunteer work with the organization. Previously, he spent 20 years at The GIANT Company, a subsidiary of Ahold Delhaize, where he held leadership roles in brand strategy, business development, operations, and technology.

Logo for Pequeños Ángeles de Maria – Little Angels of Mary

Sister Martha Kirk
and Darlene Jasso

Little Angels of Mary

Sister Martha Kirk and Darlene Jasso work with Little Angels of Mary, an organization serving indigenous communities in the rural highlands of Guatemala. Their efforts focus on combating childhood malnutrition and improving access to education through hands-on programs while honoring and supporting the cultural traditions of the Maya people.

Angelica Docog

Angelica Docog
Leader of the San Antonio Friendship Circle

Angelica Docog leads the San Antonio Friendship Circle, a volunteer group supporting Friendship Bridge’s mission through community engagement, fundraising, and education. Angelica brings an understanding of the complex social and economic challenges women face in Guatemala, and she is particularly passionate about the role of NGOs in empowering women through microcredit, fair trade, and culturally rooted opportunities for economic growth.