We believe international solidarity requires the participation of communities who are similarly impacted by the same global systems that violate human rights and threaten those working for true self-determination and justice in Guatemala, as well as their allies. We especially encourage applications from people of color, multiracial people, Indigenous and Central American-descended folks, working-class people, those from economically marginalized communities, and queer and trans organizers. However, anyone with a demonstrated commitment to justice and collective liberation is welcome to apply.

The application process to become an accompanier is the beginning of many steps of training that continue through a volunteer’s entire time with NISGUA. It’s also a process of mutual discernment of compatibility between NISGUA and the applicant. We strongly encourage applicants to ask lots of questions of NISGUA staff and reach out for advice from trusted comrades while they discern if being an accompanier with NISGUA is a good fit for them

TIMELINE FOR 2026 GAP Internacionalista COHORT

• Application deadline: September 15, 2025
• Interview process: October–November 2025
• Training: January–February 2026
• Placement in Guatemala: Begins second quarter of 2026

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

If you would like to apply, on the right-hand side you will find a series of buttons to complete and/or upload the documents we require:

1️⃣ Complete the application form, where you can upload a one-page résumé highlighting your relevant experience.
2️⃣ Ask two people to provide references. To do this, share with them the link to the “Reference Form” button.

📄 You will also find the Accompanier Budget Example, with a sample for a 6-month stay, which can help you plan your experience.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• Rigorous commitment to creating a culture of feedback, accountability, wellness and mutual support.
• Demonstrated commitment to human rights and social, economic, ecological, racial and disability justice is required. The ability to document and analyze events and conditions in order to produce quality written reports and educational materials.
• Cultural sensitivity; excellent judgment skills; ability to work flexibly in dynamic, changing situations; resourcefulness in self-care and relational dynamics.
• A HIGH LEVEL of verbal and written Spanish or the ability to develop it with six weeks of intensive study.
• A familiarity with the history of Central America/U.S. relations, the current situation in Guatemala, and a basic understanding of human rights/accompaniment.
• Previous experience in Latin America (especially rural areas) strongly preferred.
• Awareness of security issues, willingness to work in a situation which might involve risk, interest in individual and team analysis.
• Familiarity with or willingness to learn strategies for grassroots fundraising and education in the US.
• A minimum six month commitment.
• A U.S. passport and/or a strong connection to a U.S. community.

BENEFITS

• Lodging provided at our main office in Guatemala City.
• A $530 monthly stipends to cover health insurance and most in-country travel expense (individual fundraising also required).
• Immersion in the Guatemalan social, cultural, political, and linguistic context.
• Trainings on accompaniment and organizing.
• Ongoing check-ins, trainings, and support from Guatemala City staff on well-being, political analysis, organizing, and professional development.
• Access to a grassroots networks of nearly four decades of NISGUA organizers and activists.

If you have additional program questions, please email gap[at]nisgua.org.