Maria Rodriguez

Maria Rodriguez is an experienced professional dedicated to empowering women and supporting community development in Guatemala. Currently serving as a Grants Consultant for Fundación Junkabal and a Grants Coordinator for Friendship Bridge, Maria focuses on project design and development that aligns with both organizations' missions to uplift vulnerable populations. As the Founder and Managing Director of Byoearth.com, Maria promotes vermicomposting to enhance living conditions and address food security and environmental concerns. Previously, Maria co-founded and served as President of Chamba, fostering the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Guatemala, and directed Eco Arte de Junkabal, facilitating income generation through handicrafts for women in impoverished areas. Maria holds a Master’s degree in Sustainable Rural Development from FL Wageningen University and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a minor in tourism from Universidad del Istmo.