About us
Mission
The Wayuu Taya Foundation was created with the objective of improving the living conditions of the indigenous communities in Latin America, maintaining and respecting their traditions, cultures and beliefs.
Vision
Access to food, water, medicine and supplies, education and livelihoods for the most vulnerable communities in the indigenous region along the northern Venezuela-Colombia border. This work focuses on communities with significant needs and issues such as extreme poverty and alimentary and educational deficiencies that affect the integral development of the children.
Objectives
Facilitate areas that preserve the cultural heritage of the Wayúu people, respecting their traditions, reaffirming their values, and promoting their comprehensive development through education, support, and opportunities for regenerative and sustainable livelihoods with strategically designed programs.
History
The Wayúu Taya Foundation, whose name translates to "I am Wayúu" in the Wayúu dialect, embarked on its mission in 2002 by constructing a preschool for 30 children in the Mara region of Venezuela. This specific geographic area was chosen due to the immense challenges it had been facing. Within this region, the indigenous population had the least access to infrastructure and were the most vulnerable in the country. With over two decades of dedicated work in this region and strong bonds forged within the communities, the Foundation persists in its efforts despite the challenging climate. Through the Foundation and its network, international organizations have channeled aid to support these indigenous communities.
The foundation initially focused on working through its school to provide quality education and meals but expanded its activities across the country with humanitarian aid and sustainable water and agriculture programs, benefiting over one million people.
