By Yassira Huarcaya
It’s been a few weeks since we started our adventure to Guatemala with the Pumas Ascend. I remember last year when Inés told me about the trip and asked me to come along. I said yes right away.
As the months went by, I kept asking about the trip, until, just a few weeks before, I discovered we would be hiking a volcano. Since I’m not the type to do sports, I was worried. Then, a bad bike fall added to my concern. Everything was ready, so I focused on recovering quickly and taking precautions. I tend to overdo it a bit, but it helped.
On the day of the flight, I arrived with a backpack, a color-coded organizer (yes, I told you I can overdo it), filled with super important documents for the 6 Pumas, and a 23kg suitcase. I thought that was all, but no—I was also carrying a bonus load: excitement, fear, questions, and worries. I met families who were proud and happy but, like me, might have had a bit of fear inside. We said our goodbyes, and I promised to return their Pumas safely to them (their belongings were another matter) .
Our journey began.
Having gone through long immigration checks, we arrived in Guatemala —tired, exhausted, and ready for a good shower. We settled in for the next 6 days. We set rules, routines, and launched our adventure.
The first day included a Welcoming Ceremony, with Pumas de Ascend and Discovery leading the way from Acton Guatemala (where we stayed) to Spring Academy (the event venue). The leaders guided the group to the destination, gave instructions, planned the activities, and I really appreciated how warmly they connected with the younger Pumas. They were kind and engaging.
During the event, I met other guides and owners. We exchanged a few words and promised to see each other again. The next day, we began visiting other Actons. Each Acton is at a different stage—some are established, others newer. The newest one faces challenges that Tinkuy once did, while the older ones have their own unique battles.
Sharing my concerns and victories with the local guides was an enriching experience. It gave me new perspectives. I had often wondered, “How do other Acton Academies do it?” I also wondered about cultural differences and adaptations. I learned that, though all Acton Academies follow the same path, each one has its own essence. Each campus finds what helps them move forward, reflect, and question themselves.
The trip continued, and the feared volcano day arrived. The hike was tough, but I saw Pumas with tired faces who didn’t give up. I offered candies, carrots, and sticks, and heard “Thanks, Yass,” followed by pats on the shoulder as I encouraged them to keep going. I had pain, but a strong desire to reach the top. I took it as a personal challenge. When we made it, I saw happy, tired, and proud faces. Some asked if I felt okay or if anything hurt. It really touched me. After that, I felt like the extra load was finally lightening up.
The following days were full of connection, with mornings filled with Acton experiences and afternoons exploring the city on our own.
We were chaperoning six pre-teens, who alternated between wanting to run, shout, jump and play, to just chat while walking, eating ice cream, taking photos, or shopping. That tricky stage in life of wanting to grow up but also keep being children.
As the days went on, I noticed how much they missed their parents, which showed in their sensitivity, irritability, and phrases like “I miss my mom’s food” or “My dad would’ve done this.” Feeling sick also brought up things they hadn’t faced before. How they dealt with it was healthy and incredible. They found support in each other, in themselves, and in small moments with us guides.
On the last night, I suggested to the Pumas that they do character callouts. This led to them mutually acknowledging self-care, strength, perseverance, and bravery. The bravery that doesn’t mean no fear, but pushing through fear.
Sunday came, and it was time to say goodbye. When I heard “Welcome to the city of Lima,” I felt my extra baggage finally unload. I looked at Inés and said, “We’re here.” Seeing the excited families and handing them their passports was an emotional moment. “Here, I’m bringing them back in one piece,” I smiled. Taking learners on a trip is a huge responsibility, and it’s not just about their behavior but how the world is today. But despite everything, their wings shouldn’t be clipped. We must keep creating these experiences, carefully planned, because the life lessons they bring are irreplaceable.
In the end, we had 5 sick learners, 1 injured guide, 1 lost “pachón,”* a few tears, countless laughs, and a wealth of learning
Thank you, Pumas, for this incredible experience.
*Pachón = water bottle
