The Women Behind Yabal: A Legacy of Strength, Vision, and Heart

At Yabal, every thread we weave carries a story — not just of the women artisans we work with in the Guatemalan highlands, but also of the inspiring women who have led, shaped, and nurtured this organization throughout the years.

From the very beginning, Yabal has been more than a fair trade brand. It’s been a movement, a mission, and a deep commitment to dignity, empowerment, and solidarity. And at the heart of this mission stand five incredible women, each of whom has carried Yabal forward in her own unique way.

Melissa & Yet: The Founders With a Vision (2005 – 2010 / 2015)

Yabal was born in 2005 out of a deep calling to act. Melissa and Yet, the co-founders of Yabal, were living in Guatemala when they witnessed the social and economic challenges facing Indigenous communities in the highlands — especially after the destruction caused by Hurricane Stan. They saw a need for support, not just in the short term, but in the long term: through economic opportunity, connection, and respect for traditional Mayan weaving.

They responded not with charity, but with partnership. Together, they built Yabal from the ground up — creating meaningful work opportunities, keeping the ancient art of weaving alive, and forming strong, lasting relationships with weaving communities.

Their dedication laid the foundation for Yabal’s values: respect, transparency, solidarity, and sustainability. Yet returned to her home country in 2010, and Melissa followed in 2015 — but their legacy lives on in every woven product, every community project, every step we take.

Allison: Eight Years of Leadership With Heart (2014 – 2022)

In 2014, Allison joined Yabal and quickly became an essential part of the team. She later stepped into the role of director, where she served with full dedication for 8 years. Allison was a true powerhouse — always bringing a mix of positivity, drive, and deep commitment to social justice.

She led Yabal through periods of growth, new partnerships, and powerful community impact. Her respect for the weavers and her ability to connect across cultures and languages made her leadership not only effective but deeply human. In 2022, she returned to her home country, but her spirit continues to inspire everything we do.

Yesica: Grounded and Full of Vision (2015 – 2021)

Working alongside Allison was Yesica, our Production Coordinator from 2015 to 2021. Born and raised in Guatemala, Yesica has an eagerness to learn, and a vibrant energy to her work. She served as a bridge between the weavers and the rest of the team, always advocating for quality, fairness, and innovation

Her attention to detail and her love for textiles helped Yabal grow into the reliable, ethical brand it is today. But beyond her professional skills, it was Yesica’s openness and connection with the artisans that truly made a difference. She was not only a coordinator, but a mentor, a friend, and a pillar of strength for many.

Isabel: Leading the Way Today (2018 – Present)

Today, Yabal is led by Isabel, who joined the organization in 2018 and brings with her years of experience, deep knowledge of Yabal’s values, and a heartfelt connection to the communities we work with. After Allison’s departure in 2022, Isabel stepped into the role of director, continuing the legacy of strong, mission-driven women at the helm of Yabal.

She leads with passion and integrity, nurturing long-term relationships with our artisan partners and ensuring that Yabal stays true to its roots while growing sustainably. Isabel, like the women before her, leads not only with skill but with soul — and we’re so proud to have her guiding our team forward.

To All of You — Thank You

To Melissa, Yet, Allison, Yesica, and Isabel: thank you.

airness, and innovation.

For believing in Yabal. For giving your time, your love, your strength.
For seeing the potential in communities that are too often overlooked.
For proving that ethical fashion, community empowerment, and women-led leadership can — and do — change lives.

The story of Yabal is your story, too. And we are endlessly grateful.