Mothers Who Inspire: Community Leadership

Tierra Nueva, Guatemala

In Guatemala, more than 20% of children repeat first grade, a figure worsened by the lack of access to preschool education in rural areas of the Western Highlands.

In response, the organization Tierra Nueva is strengthening early childhood development through early stimulation and preschool readiness, with strong community involvement.

The program partners with 150 trained volunteer “guide mothers” who support 1,140 other mothers in caring for 1,744 children aged 0 to 6.

Through community-run Early Stimulation Centers, equipped by the organization, in-person sessions are held to support children’s motor, cognitive, sensory, and social-emotional development.

This initiative has helped children arrive at first grade better prepared and confident in basic school tasks—reducing repetition rates to just 10% in participating communities.

Beyond improving access to early education, the project empowers women as community leaders and key agents of childhood development.

The experience shows that investing in early childhood with a community-based approach leads to meaningful and lasting impact.