Sharon Smart came to Guatemala in 1986 as a buyer for a Canadian ethnic shop. What began as a business trip quickly became a lifelong love affair—with the colors, the textiles, and most importantly, the people of Guatemala. She was captivated by the warmth, resilience, and creativity of the communities she met. Over time, she opened her own business exporting handcrafts to Australia, working closely with indigenous artisans and witnessing the challenges and hardships they faced every day.

Her heart, however, was always bigger than business. After the devastating impact of Hurricane Stan in the Sololá area in 2005, Sharon, alongside her husband Dwight and dear friend Patti Mort, worked tirelessly to provide immediate relief to families whose lives had been shattered. It was clear that the need went far beyond emergency aid. Driven by compassion and a deep sense of justice, Sharon co-founded Mayan Families to support the communities she had grown to love, helping them rebuild and regain hope.

In December 2018, Sharon and Dwight entrusted Mayan Families to the U.S. board, so they could devote themselves entirely to the on-the-ground work of Fundamaya. By 2019, Fundamaya partnered with the U.S. non-profit Action Alliance International, Inc., and today stands as a registered 501(c)(3) organization, continuing Sharon’s vision of empowerment, education, and opportunity for those in need.

Sharon was more than a founder or an executive director—she was the heart and soul of Fundamaya. Her unwavering dedication, boundless compassion, and tireless spirit touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She believed in the power of generosity, in the dignity of every human being, and in the profound impact of even the smallest act of kindness.

Though she is no longer with us, Sharon’s spirit continues to guide our work. Every project we undertake, every child we educate, every family we support, carries forward her vision and her love. She showed us that one person’s dedication can change the course of many lives, and she inspired all of us to carry that torch forward with courage, hope, and heart.

Sharon gave her life to Fundamaya, and in doing so, she gave hope, opportunity, and joy to so many. We honor her life, her leadership, and her extraordinary legacy. May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts, and forever alive in the work she so passionately built.