Chi Tz'unun Choy
Culture Center
The Community Center is the hub of educational, cultural, economic, and
social strength for the citizens of Tzununá.
Welcome to the special
Maya lands of Tzununá!
The Community Center is the hub of educational, cultural, economic and social strength for the citizens of Tzununá.
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It includes a workspace for indigenous leadership groups and entrepreneurs, a library and classroom for children and adult education programs, a café, and a co-working space for partnering NGO's.
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The vision for the center has come to life through decades of cross-cultural collaboration between former United Nations workers and the local Kaqchikel community.
It continues to be the birthplace of initiatives that will benefit the future generations of Tzununá, while also setting an example for respectful cross-cultural collaboration
that preserves the values and identity of the indigenous community. ​
Biblioteca
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Our goal is simple:
to create learning success stories one student at a time.
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Since we opened our doors in 2007, the library has been helping students fulfill their potential.
We do this by collaborating with local schools and partnering with educational organizations across
Lake Atitlán. We are committed to helping the young people find joy in the learning process and supporting adult learners in creating economic strength and
joyful lives.
The library is open Monday to Friday.
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Kids Day!​
Each month, we host a kids day for children to learn about topics related to caring for their land and community while engaging in fun activities with volunteers. ​​​
Sports Academy​
Tzununá sports academy was inspired by Nacho, the president of Chi Tz'unun Choy, who recognized the need for a sports program
to engage local children, support local talent, and to strengthen the community through healthy activities.
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The program is a collaboration between volunteers and the teachers at Tzununá Telesecondario School who say, "There is so much talent in Tzununá! We want to see it flourish!"
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Due to a lack of school funding for sports programs, independent fundraising provides the equipment to keep the program in motion.​​
Women in Leadership​
This initiative was inspired by Chi Tz'unun Choy board member and Alicia Chara, a local Maya healer and business owner. The goal is to invest in the traditional skills of the women of Tzununá by hosting workshops focused on leadership and business education.
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We are in the process of partnering with various indigenous-led organizations across Lake Atitlán to promote the creativity, economic power, and autonomy of Maya women.
Tzunun Cafè​
Petrona Santos Tepáz is the chef and manager of the café connected to the community center, which attracts
a multi-cultural clientele, including members of the Kaqchikel community, foreign tourists, and ex-pats.
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The café serves high quality Guatemalan coffee, spectacular herbal teas, and breakfast and lunch options.
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Petrona specializes in baking, barista, and cooking, and is an aspiring pastry chef. ​
Visiting groups can book private meal events to experience Petrona's specialized gastronomy talent, and learn about ways to support community projects in Tzununá.
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Contact us to inquire about booking Petrona for a private chef event.
