Think Creative Spring 2022

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Proyecto Tejiendo Paz By Sara Barker, Chief of Party Shared cultural traditions unite and harmonize communities. I recently attended a meaningful cultural activity organized by 48 Cantones—a highly respected group of indigenous authorities in Totonicapán, Guatemala—as a part of the USAID-funded Peacebuilding Project ( Proyecto Tejiendo Paz ). 48 Cantones is a multigenerational assembly charged with community duties, such as protecting natural resources, resolving local disputes and preserving the historical memory of the town. Observing their depth of respect and connection to their Mayan ancestors was incredibly moving. The event included traditional music and the presentation of historical relics

to 48 Cantones for safeguarding, including a 200-year-old silver staff representing integrity, authority and responsibility. Indigenous authorities like 48 Can tones are key partners in retaining traditions. They also serve as critical partners in peacebuilding by le veraging their ancestral knowledge and deploying effective dialogue, mediation and negotiation skills. The event was part of a training process led by Tejiendo Paz ’s local partner, the Center for Research and Projects for Development and Peace (CEIDEPAZ). Our partnership builds upon Tejiendo Paz’s goals of conflict mitigation and peacebuilding in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. n

Giovani Rosales, President of 48 Cantones, holds a 200-year-old silver staff presented to group. “With our staff, we feel the strength of our ancestors. … When I hold the staff and speak, I feel supported by past generations.”

In this Issue

West Africa Trade Hub In Focus 12 p.

07 Dispatches

Vamos Ler! By the Numbers 10 p.

Updates from around our world

08 // A NewWave of Learning 09 // • From IDP to Star Teacher

Bringing Curriculum to Life 14 p.

• Strengthening Governance Worldwide • Field Notes

10 // Vamos Ler! By the Numbers 12 // In Focus: West Africa Trade & Investment Hub

14 Cover Package Bringing Curriculum to Life: Improving Arabic Literacy in Morocco

ON THE COVER: A classroom full of eager learners benefiting from Morocco’s revised Arabic language curriculum. Photo taken by Erick Gibson for Creative Associates International.

Photos by Karen Chang (Snap Shot), Erick Gibson (Bringing Curriculum to Life); Aniebiet Bassey (West Africa Trade Hub); Erick Gibson (Vamos Ler!)

4 | Think Creative | Spring 2022