In loving memory of our founder, Sharon Ann Smart

Sharon Smart came to Guatemala in 1986 as a buyer for a Canadian ethnic shop. What began as a business trip became a lifelong love affair with the colors, the textiles and, most of all, the people of Guatemala.

She was captivated by the warmth, resilience and creativity of the communities she met. Over time she opened her own business exporting handcrafts to Australia, working closely with indigenous artisans and seeing the hardships they faced every day.

Her heart was always bigger than business. After Hurricane Stan devastated the Sololá area in 2005, Sharon, alongside her husband Dwight and dear friend Patti Mort, worked tirelessly to bring immediate relief to families whose lives had been shattered. The need went far beyond emergency aid, and she gave the rest of her life to meeting it.

Sharon was more than a founder or an executive director. She was the heart and soul of Fundamaya. Her dedication, compassion and tireless spirit touched countless lives. She believed in the power of generosity, in the dignity of every human being, and in the profound impact of even the smallest act of kindness.

Though she is no longer with us, Sharon's spirit continues to guide our work. Every child we educate and every family we support carries forward her vision and her love. May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts, and forever alive in the work she so passionately built.