On October 29, we celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Wayak Community Center with an event that brought together the Mahahual community. Since its founding in 2014, Wayak has become a cornerstone for the region’s social, cultural, and athletic development, significantly impacting the lives of children, youth, women, and community members.
Special Recognition
Among the attendees was Verónica Lezama Espinosa, President of DIF Quintana Roo, who highlighted Wayak’s importance as a model for community development. During her remarks, she announced her commitment to establish a new community center following the Pilares model, extending Wayak’s positive impact to the heart of the municipality.
A Celebration Filled with Highlights
In addition to celebrating Wayak’s legacy, the Director of the Wayak Community Center, Senaida Gómez, recognized and thanked the individuals and organizations that have contributed to its success. Teachers, parents, businesses, donors, and civil associations came together to enjoy a rich program of activities that included:
- Mayan Ceremony: A tribute to the cultural roots of Mahahual, marking the start of the celebration.
- Musical Laboratory Performance: Children and young people delighted the audience with their artistic talents, guided by their music teacher.
- Folkloric Ballet: The “Sabor y Baile” group captivated attendees with a display of tradition and culture.
- Recreational Activities: Participants joined a collaborative mural, enjoyed local food, and explored regional crafts and handmade products.
Wayak’s Impact in Numbers
Over the past decade, Wayak has achieved remarkable milestones:
- Organized more than 1,000 workshops focused on the community’s holistic development.
- Positively impacted 90% of Mahahual’s children.
- Built a network of 60 active volunteers.
- Established partnerships with organizations like Mares Center, Proyecto Akk Mahahual A.C., and Menos Plástico es Fantástico A.C.
In 2024, Wayak annually benefits over 1,500 people through innovative programs such as:
- Adult education and training will be provided by Quintana Roo, the Secretary of Public Education.
- Musicalizamos Mahahual, promoting artistic growth among youth.
- Amora Mahahual, which drives the local economy by supporting regional artisans.
- Wayak Near You is a flagship program bringing community center activities to Vicente Kau Chan Elementary School, increasing the participation of children and mothers in safe environments.
A Legacy in the Making
Mariana Perrilliat, the founder of Wayak, reflected on the center’s beginnings:
“Wayak was born as a dream to reclaim a space where children, youth, and women could grow and thrive. It started with nothing but a desire to transform our community.”
The event also introduced the 2035 Strategic Plan, a roadmap aimed at ensuring the center’s sustainability and resilience and guaranteeing that it remains a beacon for Mahahual and nearby communities.
A Promising Future
Wayak’s 10th anniversary honored its past and marked the beginning of a new chapter. Wayak is more than a community center; it is a symbol of what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared purpose.
This milestone reaffirms Wayak’s mission to transform lives and build a stronger, more inclusive, and resilient Mahahual for future generations.