María José

María José is a 13-year-old student in 6th grade who lives with her mom. She has three siblings, two older and one younger. She helps support her family by selling traditional woven bags and bracelets in Antigua’s Central Park.

Her favorite class is Music because she enjoys singing. María José hopes to become a manicurist when she grows up. Her favorite foods are pepián and hilachas, two traditional Guatemalan dishes. In her free time, she likes to handwash her clothes. She is good at selling and would like to improve her reading skills. Being with her mom makes her feel happy and hopeful. Today, she is especially thankful to have her mom alive and with her.

Quick Facts:

• Age: 13

• Grade: 6th Grade

• Birthday: June 11

Meet María José’s cousin, also a Chispas student: Angel.