AFP takes the podcast to a remote Mayan village in Guatemala where we hear from Alejandro. Alejandro shares his story about growing up in rural Guatemala and his take on culture, language, and how important it is as a global citizen to experience other places around the globe first-hand.

Music by: Mato Wayuhi

Song: “Where Do We Go Now?”

Link: https://soundcloud.com/matoaster

More info & view slideshow at http://www.afaceproject.com/podcasts/ep18-alejandro/

NOTES:

• [01:25] Natalie talks about being on the road the last couple of months & the mic set-up
• [05:20] On speaking his native Mayan language--with a sample phrase
• [06:30] The decision to go to a better school as a child for a better life
• [07:50] Learned most of his English from living with Americans who changed his life
• [09:40] Basic needs vs. luxury/United States vs. life in Guatemala
• [11:00] Patzun and life
• [12:00] Culture of undermining the Mayan people
• [13:40] On valuing his language and culture
• [14:30] On speaking his native language in public
• [15:10] On forgetting language & culture
• [15:45] The benefit of speaking Mayan/Kakchiquel
• [16:15] Be proud of your heritage
• [16:45] His wish to see more proud Mayan people
• [17:20] On practicing non-judgement
• [18:12] Do the fieldwork, get out and see the world
• [21:14] “Where Do We Go Now?” by Mato Wayuhi