Faces of Na'atik: Teacher César

For nearly a decade, César has been helping students discover that learning a language is about much more than grammar and vocabulary. Whether teaching English to local students or Spanish to visitors from around the world, he believes every class is an opportunity to build confidence, create meaningful connections, and celebrate culture.

We sat down with César to learn more about his journey, his passion for teaching, and what makes Na'atik such a special place.

How did your journey with Na'atik begin?

I first came to Na'atik in 2016. At the time, I was still in university and was looking for a summer job teaching Spanish. What I thought would be a temporary opportunity quickly turned into something much bigger. In 2017, I officially joined the team, and I've been here ever since.

Did you always plan to teach both Spanish and English?

Not at all! I originally came to teach Spanish, but during my first week, one of our English teachers had to leave unexpectedly. I stepped in to help with those classes, and before I knew it, I was teaching English to local students as well.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of teaching hundreds of students from our community—children, teenagers, adults, and even members of our host families. It's amazing to see so many familiar faces around town and remember that we once shared a classroom.

You've seen both Na'atik and Felipe Carrillo Puerto grow over the years. What changes stand out to you?

When I arrived, Na'atik looked very different. There wasn't a second floor or the rooftop terrace we have today. We had just a few classrooms and even taught lessons outside under the palapas.

Felipe Carrillo Puerto has changed too. There are more cafés, restaurants, and opportunities for visitors to experience the town. Tourism has grown, but what I appreciate most is that the town has kept its authentic identity. People come here looking for something real, and that's exactly what they find.

What has been the most rewarding part of teaching local students?

Watching them grow.

Some of my former students were very shy when they started learning English. They doubted themselves and weren't sure they could succeed. Today, many of them have become engineers, teachers, professionals, and community leaders. They've traveled abroad, presented sustainable projects, and represented the Maya region internationally—all while staying proud of where they come from.

Knowing that I played a small role in that journey is incredibly rewarding.

And what do international students take home after studying at Na'atik?

I think they leave with much more than Spanish.

They discover a side of Mexico that many people don't know exists. They experience everyday life, nature, Maya culture, and genuine connections with local people. They realize that Mexico is much more than the stereotypes they may have heard before visiting.

I like to think that somewhere in Australia, New Zealand, Poland, France, or anywhere else in the world, someone remembers learning Spanish here in Felipe Carrillo Puerto and shares that experience with others. They take a little piece of our community with them.

What do you enjoy most about teaching languages?

Languages create opportunities.

For local students, English can open doors to better education, careers, travel, and friendships around the world.

For international students, learning Spanish allows them to connect with people, understand another culture, and experience Mexico in a much deeper way than they ever could as tourists.

The best part is that both groups learn from each other. That's what makes immersion so powerful.

If someone is thinking about learning a new language but feels nervous, what advice would you give them?

Don't be afraid to make mistakes.

That's how we learn. Every mistake teaches you something and brings you one step closer to your goal.

And don't be afraid to connect with people. Sometimes we're hesitant to start a conversation or try something new, but those moments can completely change our lives. You never know what you'll discover about yourself until you take that first step.

At Na'atik, teachers like César remind us that language learning is about more than communication—it's about confidence, curiosity, and connection. Through authentic immersion and meaningful cultural exchange, every student becomes part of a story that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Whether you're learning Spanish in the heart of the Maya region or building English skills within the local community, every conversation creates new opportunities to learn, grow, and connect.

To learn more about Na’atik’s English language program for local and Indigenous students in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, visit our Impact Page. We are only able to provide this much needed program thanks to the support of generous donors and the funds raised from our award winning Maya and Spanish Immersion Program. If you would like to support our mission please consider donating today or take a look at our immersion programs and online class packages.