In a world that moves so quickly, there is something deeply meaningful about welcoming the same retreat leaders back year after year. What begins as a working relationship becomes a shared history, shaped by trust, challenges, laughter, and the pleasure of seeing familiar faces return. For the past 12 years, hosting Araminta, Shadi, and ISTA Guatemala has been an honor.
Growing together
Together, we have navigated the complexities of hosting retreats, including the uncertainty and disruption of COVID. We have had our growing pains, learning how to bring the group’s vision into harmony with the realities of running Villa Sumaya. Working with people asks much of us: patience, sensitivity, honest communication, and a willingness to keep learning. Throughout our collaboration, I have seen the gentleness, clear communication, and thoughtfulness the ISTA leaders and coordinators bring to their guests, our team, and their relationship with me.
Watching guests’ light return
I have also seen how deeply their guests are moved by the work. People often arrive weary, carrying the weight of everyday life and their own wounds and challenges. As the week unfolds, there is more laughter, more openness, and a warmth that fills our shared spaces. By the time they leave, many seem visibly brighter: rejuvenated, inspired, and more connected to themselves and one another. There is a particular joy in witnessing someone’s light return.
Speaking from our own experience
We are aware of the serious concerns that have been raised publicly about the wider ISTA organization. They deserve to be heard and taken seriously, and we do not dismiss them.
We can only speak to what we have witnessed here. In twelve years of working alongside these two leaders, I have consistently seen them act with kindness, responsibility, and care. My trust has grown through honest conversations, challenges worked through together, and many moments of tenderness and care with their guests. It is from this shared experience that I support the heartfelt work they bring to Villa Sumaya.
At Villa Sumaya, the wellbeing of every guest comes first, and our team is always available to anyone who needs support during their stay.
