Help Edie Build a Therapy Space for a School in Guatemala

I am an undergraduate at The Cardiff School of Architecture, currently in year 2 of a bachelor's degree studying for the RIBA Part 1. This July, I am putting the skills I have learned so far into practice and will be part of a team who will design and construct a truly life-changing space for a school in Guatemala!

I had heard of CAUKIN Studio as it was founded by Cardiff University alumni. The organisation is a design and construction social enterprise which brings together students like myself, local skilled and unskilled workers and charities, in order to create self-funded developments around the world which have long-term community benefits.

This summer, CAUKIN Studio has collaborated with the Meso Foundation to design and construct a dedicated therapy space at Colegio Mesoamericano in Chimaltenango. The initiative aims to provide a secluded, nurturing environment for one-on-one sessions between students and counsellors or teachers. The therapy space will be located in a tranquil forested area on the school grounds, offering privacy, comfort and a connection to nature. Its purpose is to foster mindfulness, encourage open conversations and support students' mental well-being.

I am excited to be a part of this project and have already had several of my travel vaccinations! The funds I hope to raise will in part be to support the project, contribute to the charity and also to help cover the cost of my travel to, and accommodation in, Guatemala for a month. I would be hugely grateful if you feel you are able to contribute to this fundraiser in some way but equally, completely understand if this is something you are unable to do. Either way, I appreciate you having taken the time to read this, thank you!