Candy’s Maya Giftshop & Culture Experience is located in Aguacate Village, Toledo District, Belize. It is run by Candelaria Kukul, a Ketchi Maya woman who speaks the language and proudly shares what it means to be Maya with other people through her business.

Hubs of artisanship to foster sustainable community development.

Gift Shops, just like Candy’s Maya Giftshop, can be hubs of artisanship, transmitting traditional techniques and fostering culture and diverse ways of life. They have an essential role in heritage sustainability and in providing economic support to communities and individuals.

Although Candy’s Maya Giftshop is a family run business, they also do their part to help other families in Aguacate Village. By outsourcing jobs to families who can make similar products and sharing new skills from training sessions, Candelaria is sustainably promoting and safeguarding her community’s heritage.

Maya products and Maya stories

Ms Calendaria Kukul makes a variety of handmade woven products, such as Cuxtal (Maya bags), Maya clothes, table mats, tablecloths, napkins and woven baskets from natural plants such as Jippy-jappa (Sabal mexicana) and Tie-tie (Desmoncus chinantlensis).

Since businesses like Candy’s are built on ancient techniques and knowledge that have lasted centuries, they have the power and resilience to inspire younger generations to embrace and promote their culture. 

More shops are becoming focused on showcasing high-quality artisanal products while also providing cultural experiences and stories for Belizeans and visitors alike.

There is no doubt that such heritage-inspired businesses can find success. Gift Shops can stimulate community development, benefiting both the individuals and broader institutions necessary for safeguarding heritage and culture. The next time you visit a gift shop, think about the complex and long history behind each of the items around you. Think of what it took for the products to be there, what it means for the people behind it and the impact it makes if you choose to engage.

Contact:

You can contact Candy’s Maya Giftshop on their Facebook page or call at +501 622-9208 (WhatsApp, text, call) and at +501 626-3687 (text or call).

Written by: Ella Békési