The project was born from the dream of Fidencio Cruz, a resident of El Naranjo, licensed tour guide of the UNESCO archaeological site and founder of Fidel Tours agency. 

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Concerned about the loss of culture, values and traditional skills amongst the new generations, Fidencio partnered with Cinzia Sarigu , permaculture designer and Mayan cosmology expert from Ixchel Healing Arts, to create an educational program that would weave ancient and modern Mayan wisdom. The project was launched in February 2022, and it's been going strong since, thanks to the incredible work and dedication of both the volunteers and the children. There have been many challenges but also many miracles along the way. The land and the spirit of the ancestors are supporting the project, and the children are thriving. 

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At the moment, Children of the Sun is run entirely by volunteers, and so far, the children have attended ongoing classes and ad hoc workshops in the following subjects:

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• Music, poetry and improvisation

• Poc ta poc ( the prehispanic ball game)

• Mayan cosmology storytelling

• Mayan cosmology: science, mathematics, ecology and spirituality 

• Mayan prehispanic art and music

• Flute-making workshop utilising bamboo harvested from the jungle

• Herbal medicine identification and remedies preparation

• Traditional weaving

• English classes

• Dreamcatchers making workshop

• Mandala making

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Fundraising so far has come entirely from Ixchel Healing Arts and the generosity of people who attend Cinzia's shamanic retreats, courses and events. The long-term plan is for the project to be self-reliant by diversifying the fundraising opportunities with volunteering programs, fair trade commerce, eco-tourism in the area and more. 

Children of the Sun is a work in progress, an initiative for the children which is creating community amongst the adults, building bridges between cultures and age groups, and facilitating learning and healing for the people who visit. Held by the forest, waterfalls, hummingbirds and ancient temples, the project opens a rare window into a world of mysticism and deep ecology for anyone who becomes involved, either for a day, a week or a lifetime.

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VOLUNTEERING 

We have volunteering opportunities in different areas and incredible perks to offer our gratitude. 

If you volunteer in the village, you receive full board accommodation with a Mayan family and free temple and nature tours.

If you volunteer online, you receive online Shamanic Sessions and Mayan Cosmology readings.

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