Ixcan - seeing a piece of Guatemala's complex history

I had the opportunity to go to Ixcan, an area that was very affected by the 36 year long conflict. I went there with the instituto and we were trying to gather information to measure the impact their programs were having in the area. It was incredible to witness the bravery, perseverance and strength of the people who live and work there. It is a very difficult region with an abundance of problems, but also one with many people actively trying to improve conditions and making the best with what they have.

A group of community leaders from Mayalan. We interviewed them to see what types of conflict they witness in their community and how they deal with them.

The community radio station - For many people it's the only communication they get. There are many educational programs to let people know about their rights.

A turquoise river that runs right by Primavera, one of the communities in resistance that fled into the jungle to escape the violence during the conflict.

The road that leads to Primavera. We drove over 2 hours on a rocky, unpaved roads. I could hardly walk when I got out of the car. I can't imagine having to do that type of journey every day or even just once a week to get to the closest town.

Pueblo Nuevo - a community of returned refugees. They have no running water and only get electricity for 3 hours a day. But the community itself is very organized.

Sunset in Playa Grande, the biggest town in Ixcan. The sun went down so quickly you could actually watch it move.