José Luis Zamora

San Pedro Las Huertas, Sacatepéquez

José Luis Zamora is a basket maker in the quiet town of San Pedro Las Huertas, just outside Antigua. In 2009, he started Cestas Guadalupana with the idea of blending traditional basketry techniques with a modern material: recycled plastic. The name “Guadalupana” is a tribute to Saint Guadalupe, the patron saint of December 12— the day José Luis completed his first major sale and launched his business.

José Luis is passionate about three missions: fostering indigenous culture, improving sustainability, and developing economic opportunities for his community. All products from Cestas Guadalupana are created on a traditional weaving frame, using techniques passed down through generations. Rather than using cotton, he weaves plastic “threads” which he sources through Guatemala’s emerging recycling industry. 

To expand the reach of Cestas Guadalupana, José Luis has worked with outside organizations including Guatemala’s Ministry of Culture and the Taiwanese embassy to develop export operations and open a retail location in Antigua, Guatemala. What makes José Luis most proud: “We generate employment for 36 people, which impacts the livelihood of 36 families in the community”