The Days That Change a Life: Jonnathan's Story
By Jonnathan Bryan Xajpot Tzay, Installer, International Esperanza Project
Behind every stove installation is someone whose work extends far beyond bricks, mortar, and chimneys. For many of our volunteers, Jonnathan Bryan Xajpot Tzay is one of the first people they connect with when they arrive in Guatemala.
Jonnathan is from the community where he now serves, speaks three languages, and has been part of the International Esperanza Project's Impacting Homes team for more than a year. His kindness, patience, and willingness to help have made him a favorite among volunteer teams. Whether he's teaching someone how to use the tools, translating a conversation with a family, or sharing stories throughout the day, Jonnathan has a way of making everyone feel welcome.
For him, however, the most meaningful moments happen inside the homes.
"On the days we install a new stove, a home is transformed in a way that's hard to describe. That moment with the family always turns joyful—they welcome us in with a smile, and being part of that is something I never get used to, in the best way."
Over the past year and five months, Jonnathan has worked alongside families across rural Guatemala and dozens of volunteer teams from the United States. While every week is different, he says one thing remains constant: the generosity and compassion shared between volunteers and families.
"Every group that comes here carries something special—an enormous heart and a deep love for the people in our communities. Families cry tears of joy as they receive their new stove, and volunteers often do the same because they realize just how meaningful their visit has been."
One memory continues to stay with him.
During Team Gratitude's visit in April 2026, the team had just completed a stove installation and gathered with the family to celebrate by making popcorn on their new stove. As they talked, one volunteer, Patrick, asked whether the family had already eaten. They explained they had, but the little food remaining would need to last through dinner and even breakfast the next morning.
Without hesitation, Patrick suggested leaving the team's lunches behind instead.
"He said it was better for the family to eat well than for us to go a little hungry. Then he told me something I'll never forget: these are the trips that change your life."
For Jonnathan, moments like these are reminders that the work is about much more than installing a clean-burning stove. It's about building relationships, sharing compassion, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact on everyone involved.
