A Teen Visionary Leading Guatemala’s Circular and Inclusive Export Revolution

At just 16 years old, Alisa de León co-founded a company —Alisa— with her mother, Milvia Ortega, driven by a bold dream: to share Guatemala’s rich cultural heritage with the world. From their home in San Antonio Aguas Calientes, Sacatepéquez, they began working with local artisans to create handcrafted personal and home décor accessories that fused ancestral weaving techniques with modern design.  What started in 2019 as a passion project rooted in identity and sustainability soon blossomed into a movement—one that would carry the essence of Guatemala across borders.

From the beginning, Alisa’s mission was clear: to empower artisans, preserve cultural traditions, and promote sustainable practices. Her collaboration with local weavers—many of them women—remains central to her brand’s identity. By 2020, she had formalized operations and began preparing for international markets, laying the groundwork for what would become a remarkable export journey.

Her first breakthrough came through AGEXPORT, which she joined in 2020. Through this connection, Alisa was introduced to TFO Canada and participated in the Women in Trade for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth (WIT) project. This partnership opened doors to international opportunities and mentorship that would prove transformative. In 2022, Alisa participated in the New York Now (NY NOW) trade show as part of the Guatemalan pavilion—a pivotal moment in her journey. It was her first time showcasing her products at an international fair targeting retail buyers and distributors. With TFO Canada’s guidance, she learned how to adapt her products to meet global standards, refine her branding, manage documentation, and navigate logistics and financial planning.

“This mission was a dream come true and a significant responsibility,” said Alisa de León. “It strengthened our vision and reaffirmed our commitment to carry the essence of Guatemala to the world.”

The experience paid off. Following her participation in NY NOW, Alisa secured immediate sales of handcrafted items—including door blessings, napkins, and napkin rings—totaling approximately CAD 7,000. This marked her company’s entry into the Canadian market. These exports were further strengthened by her participation in Guatemala’s New World Crafts fair in 2023.

Thanks to the training and support received through TFO Canada through the Women in Trade for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth project, Alisa now integrates sustainability, gender equity, and climate-conscious practices into every stage of production. She carefully selects materials that meet international standards and reduce environmental impact, while reinforcing her commitment to corporate social responsibility—supporting artisan employment, education, and community development.

Her success in entering international markets has been driven by consistency, strategic exposure, and relationship-building. By sharing not just her products but her story, Alisa has built genuine connections with buyers. Her preparation and professionalism have earned her credibility, while her emphasis on customer service ensures lasting partnerships. Alisa also hopes to continue collaborating with organizations like AGEXPORT, TFO Canada, and other strategic allies to support the growth of Guatemala’s handmade sector and inspire future entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead, Alisa dreams of opening her first physical store—a space not only to sell products but to share the cultural stories behind each piece. She also plans to build a larger workshop where artisans can work comfortably, and their children can access education. Her long-term goal is to expand her presence in global markets while remaining true to her ancestral weaving traditions. Ultimately, her greatest goal is to preserve and celebrate her cultural roots while creating sustainable opportunities for generations to come.

Alisa’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when tradition meets vision, and when young women lead with purpose. Her story is not just about exports—it’s about exporting hope, heritage, and a future woven with dignity.