Supporters of the Month: UTEP visitors
As part of its commitment to international education and cross-cultural understanding, a group of students and faculty from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) recently visited Na’atik Language and Culture Institute in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo. This collaboration marked a meaningful milestone for both institutions and offered a transformative educational experience for the visitors and the local community alike.
Meaningful Exchange and Experiential Learning
During their stay, the UTEP group participated in a wide range of activities designed to promote language immersion and cultural connection. The students, many of whom are studying education and bilingual studies, attended intensive Spanish classes with a strong focus on the regional context, including the historical, social, and linguistic richness of the Maya culture.
In addition to their academic work, participants lived with local host families. This experience provided them with a firsthand look at daily life in a Maya-Mexican community. It helped strengthen their Spanish language skills and gave them the chance to form meaningful relationships while gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural traditions of the region.
Community Engagement and Educational Impact
UTEP students also interacted with local English learners at Na’atik. Through informal conversation sessions and classroom support, they helped students practice their language skills while sharing aspects of their own cultural backgrounds. These exchanges created a lively and reciprocal learning environment where everyone involved could grow and connect.
The group also explored cultural and historical landmarks in the region, expanding their understanding of the importance of Indigenous heritage and language preservation. The experience highlighted the value of cultural sensitivity and the role of education in promoting empathy across borders.
Amazing story
One visitor, Jayla, was especially moved by her time in Carrillo Puerto and at Na’atik. So profound was her connection to the community and experience that she chose to commemorate it permanently by getting a tattoo from a local artist. The tattoo features the word “Na’atik”, accompanied by a flower native to Carrillo Puerto — a lasting symbol of her deep bond with the region.
“I really enjoyed the meaning. I understood the word as: we learn — not just about ourselves, but about other cultures — and we accept them for the differences. I like this because I enjoy learning different cultures, especially in the time we’re living in. We need to understand that not everybody is the same, and that it’s okay to welcome and accept the differences we grow around. It’s something beautiful.”
Her connection to Carrillo was so strong that she decided to act on an idea she had considered before the trip:
“It was something I had talked about before coming, but it was a spontaneous day after class — we made an appointment and the next thing I know, I was getting a tattoo.”
When asked if she would recommend Na’atik to other students, Jayla had no doubt:
“Yes, I would recommend it. This experience allows outsiders to understand a new culture — not just the aspects of religion and language, but the differences in communities and what brings meaning and life to others. For me, this experience allowed me to take a break from my life and appreciate learning and experiencing a new expression of community. I loved to see how connected and welcoming everyone was.”
Looking Ahead
The visit from UTEP to Na’atik represents more than an academic trip. It reflects the beginning of a growing partnership that supports intercultural dialogue and bilingual education. As both institutions continue to collaborate, there is great potential for further student exchanges, community projects, and academic research.
At Na’atik, we believe in the life-changing power of language and cultural exchange. The presence of the UTEP group brought that belief to life and left a lasting impression on our students, our team, and the broader community.
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.