The Na’atik family: past and present

Since it’s the month of love and friendship, we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate virtually than reconnecting with some of our former Na’atik staff members who have given to our wonderful community over the years. Whether it be in the form of donations, sponsoring a student or giving up their time to volunteer with us, we are so thankful to each and every one of them for their continuous support. Here is what a few had to say about why they’ve stayed connected to Na’atik since leaving Carrillo.

Kerri & Lewy Griffiths - Comms and Fundraising Manager & English Teacher (2012-13)

Na'atik is more than just a school, it's a community and one that we feel part of no matter how long since we have visited. We know that the children who join the school will go on to have so many experiences thanks to Na'atik. Catherine's vision and determination has always been so inspiring you can't help but want to be a part of it!

Everyone should have access to education and, in Mexico, speaking English is a deal breaker. Every penny raised by Na'atik is maximised and scrupulously prioritised so we know our donation is going to where it is needed most. We also love our little letters from Perla, our sponsored student, and are so proud of how much she has learned!

Molly Cooper - English Teacher (2012-13)

Na’atik played a huge role in my young adult life because it was my first ESL teaching job as well as the setting where my own bilingual abilities grew. I’ve chosen to stay connected because I love that it’s a place that fosters learning through an immersive experience and that culture is shared along with language.

Deciding to become a donor was easy. I saw firsthand how much students benefited from English classes at Na’atik. So when one of my best and brightest former students (who has now studied English at university level and has gone on to become an English Teacher at Na’atik!) was in need of sponsorship, I was grateful to be able to help.

Molly Touger – Comms, Fundraising & SAY Coordinator (2014-15)

I stay connected to Na'atik because my year in Carrillo was really special. I learned Spanish (I didn't know it before), loved the people of the town and loved my colleagues and the kids. I miss marquesitas and agua frescas.

I decided to become a donor because I really do believe language learning opens doors of opportunity. I believe in creating warm, safe spaces for kids to learn. Na'atik gives kids the gift of language and support. It's important work.

Poppy Damon – Comms, Fundraising & SAY Coordinator (2015-16)

I moved to Carrillo with my then boyfriend and now husband, Pete, in 2015. It was one of the most fun and exciting experiences of our lives and I look back on it very fondly. We arrived with no Spanish and not knowing a soul and left with lifelong friends. Na’atik is a very special place and that is because the community is so warm. A part of me never left!

Since my first day arriving at the school, I’ve always known that I would like to sponsor a student. I saw firsthand how fantastic the local language classes are and am thrilled to give that opportunity to someone. Catherine and the team don't just offer classes but so much more: access to a community, events, trips and their fantastic library! Pete and I hope we get to meet the student one of these days, and wish them luck on their language learning journey.

Blaiqe Allshouse - English Teacher (2015-17)

Since leaving Na'atik, I have been fortunate to continue my relationships with many people I met at the school. It definitely felt like we were part of a family working and living in Carrillo. And because of that, I don't think I choose to stay connected to Na'atik, but it's just the natural thing to do after getting to know and spending so much time with all the wonderful people I met there!

Leonie Jarrett - Fundraising & Comms Manager (2016-17)

Going from living and working in London to Carrillo Puerto was about as big of a culture shock as you can get. But I fell in love with the magic mix of the people, history, culture and pace of life. I learnt Spanish with Na'atik and the community became my family. On top of that, the kids at the school won my heart, which made being a part of the school and having a meaningful impact on their lives incredibly rewarding.

Paul Allen – English Teacher (2017-2018)

The main reason I have stayed connected with Na’atik is due to how influential it was on my life at the time and how much I admire it as a place of work. Catherine gave me an opportunity and I took it by the reins. I believe I will always have a home there at Na’atik and in Felipe Carrillo Puerto. It has brought nothing but joy, inspiration and great memories and I hope one day I can repay that through working with Na’atik and Catherine in the future.

John Pope – Fundraising & Comms Manager (2017-18)

Language learning is hard. You make mistakes, you get confused, and you have to be vulnerable. Na'atik creates an environment where that's not only ok but it's celebrated and made into some fun. When that happens, you can move beyond language learning toward learning how to build empathy and understanding - even across cultural or language boundaries. We need more of that in the world, which is why I always hope to stay connected to Na'atik.

Besides the good work that Na'atik does on its own terms, it also acts as a connection for all of us from afar back to Felipe Carrillo Puerto. That magical sleepy little town of clear skies, talking crosses, and friendly people is a special place. I know when I donate to Na'atik, I'm not only helping out the school, I'm helping out that entire community.

Jenny Kennedy – Fundraising & Comms Manager (2018-19, 2020-21)

I have stayed in touch because I really enjoyed my time working at Na’atik and living in Carrillo. I learned so much about Maya culture and it was great to work for an organization that is an integral part of the community. I also love hearing how the local students are progressing in their English studies, and seeing how much they've grown!

If you would like to read more about Mexican culture, history, cuisine and language, check out our blog page for our latest monthly articles. You can also sign up to our newsletter to receive these straight to your inbox along with the latest news about our non-profit school for local and Indigenous students in Felipe Carrillo Puerto. 

The best way to experience the Mexican lifestyle is in person, with a Na’atik Immersion experience. Not only do you live with a local Mexican-Maya family, sharing home-cooked meals and free time, but also receive expert instruction in your chosen language at our school. Best of all, every immersion experience helps fund our subsidized and free local education program, helping local students to access opportunities and make their own futures.