OUR TEAM
Leonardo Aguilar, Executive Director
Leonardo Aguilar is the founder of Casa de la Cultura. He was born in Santiago Chimaltenango to a family who has lived there for generations. He later migrated to the United States and received his BA in History from California State University, Los Angeles. He currently owns a Hauling Company in Los Angeles, and is married with 2 young children. Leonardo is passionate about rediscovering his roots and developing Casa de la Cultura into a world class Center of Mayan Culture.
Olga Hernandez, Senior Advisor
Olga was born in Santiago Chimaltenango. She studied law at the University of Guatemala and currently is a licensed attorney. She is well versed in Mayan history, language and culture. In addition to her legal work, she coordinates life skills programs for women and children at Casa de la Cultura.
Yari Aguilar, Administration
Yari was born and educated in Santiago Chimaltenango. She is proficient in Mam and Spanish languages. She has accounting and administrative expertise. In addition to her administrative duties, she coordinates community outreach programs at Casa de la Cultura. Yara takes great pride in service to her church and her community.
Scott Otterness, Administration
Scott was born and raised in Southern California. He studied Psychology at USC where he was awarded with a PhD in 2005. His doctoral dissertation involved a phenomenological account of mystical experience. Deeply moved by the spirit and work of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Scott became involved as a co-worker with the Missionaries of Charity in 1990. The Bread of Life Mission was founded based on this work.