When did you start your work?
I began my professional journey at the age of 15 when the Czech NGO "People in Need" entrusted me with an incredible opportunity: to establish a youth club in my small hometown and lead English language courses. This experience ignited my passion for community engagement and education, allowing me to inspire young minds while empowering myself to make a meaningful impact.

What was the inspiration behind your work?
The inspiration behind my work stems from the transformative impact of scholarships and impactful projects on my own life. Throughout my educational journey, I received invaluable support that opened doors to opportunities I never imagined possible. This experience fueled my desire to give back and create similar pathways for others.

I am driven by the belief that education and mentorship can change lives, and I am committed to empowering individuals, especially in underserved communities, to realize their potential and achieve their dreams. Through my roles, I would really like to make a lasting difference in the lives of others, just as I have been fortunate to experience.

What are you most excited about in your work?
I am most excited about the profound impact my work has on students' lives, particularly in providing them with opportunities to thrive. As an Adviser to the Rector, I have the privilege of helping students navigate pathways that expand their horizons and empower them to pursue their dreams. Witnessing their growth, confidence, and newfound ambitions is incredibly rewarding.

I'm passionate about creating spaces where students can not only succeed in their studies but also build the skills and mindset to become global citizens. I want to open doors to new experiences that inspire them to reach their full potential and make a real difference in the world.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your work?
The most challenging aspect of starting my career upon returning to my home country, Georgia was building rapport from scratch. After gaining study and work experience in five different countries, I returned with a mission to create change and make a difference. However, I encountered an environment where I had to rebuild trust and establish my credibility. Starting over was intimidating, but my determination kept me going. I embraced this challenge as an opportunity to demonstrate the potential for growth and change, both in myself and in the lives of those I aim to uplift.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a work?
My advice to other women considering starting a career or business is to believe in themselves and their vision. Embrace the challenges and uncertainties as opportunities for growth.

Remember the words of Henry Ford: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't-you're right.” This mindset is crucial; your beliefs shape your reality. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek mentorship, and never underestimate the power of resilience. Your journey may inspire others, and you have the potential to create meaningful change.

Why did you enter the Women Changing the World Awards?
When I received my nomination, I felt a strong urge to enter the Women Changing the World Awards. I wanted to share my story and uplift the voices of those who often go unheard. These awards celebrate the incredible contributions of women, and I believe it’s vital to recognize and honor the hard work of those dedicated to making a difference in their communities.

By participating, I hope to inspire and empower others, especially young women, to chase their dreams and create positive change. This is an opportunity to show how much we can achieve when we support one another and come together to build a brighter future for all.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
What I enjoyed most about being part of the awards was the incredible network of inspiring women I had the privilege to connect with. Each story shared was a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of collaboration.

This experience not only fueled my passion for change but also led to the opportunity to co-author the inspiring book Women Living Fearlessly. Through our collective voices, we sparked powerful conversations in my home country about overcoming challenges and embracing our unique journeys. It has been truly uplifting to witness how these narratives resonate with others, empowering them to share their stories and advocate for their dreams. Being surrounded by such a dynamic group of women has reinforced my belief in the importance of support and solidarity in our pursuit of meaningful change.

What surprised you most about the awards?
What surprised me most about the Women Changing the World Awards was the amazing sense of community and support among the participants. When I decided to enter, I knew I’d meet some talented women, but I didn’t expect the incredible depth of passion and dedication each person brought to their cause. I had my doubts about whether this network could be as powerful as it turned out to be, but I quickly realized it was a dynamic force that led to new connections and exciting projects.

Hearing everyone's stories was so inspiring. It reminded me how diverse our journeys can be while still uniting us in our mission to make a difference. This experience truly reinforced my belief that when women come together to uplift and support one another, we can create a ripple effect of positive change that goes far beyond just the awards.

How did the awards help you in your work/business?
The Women Changing the World Awards opened so many doors for me that I didn’t expect. Being part of this amazing event gave me visibility and helped me connect with an incredible group of people from all over the world. I was surprised at how these connections blossomed into new opportunities for international collaboration.

Not only did I forge valuable relationships, but the awards also drew significant media attention, particularly around our common project, New York-published book, “Women Living Fearlessly”. As a co-author, this exposure has amplified my message and allowed me to reach a wider audience, sharing stories that resonate with many.

Meeting fellow awardees and attendees inspired me and broadened my perspective on global issues. I learned so much from their experiences and insights, which have helped me refine my approach to my work. I’m excited about how these international connections can lead to meaningful change, both at my work and beyond.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about entering the awards?
For women considering entering the awards, I encourage you to take that leap of faith! This is an opportunity to celebrate your journey and the impact you’ve made in your community. Don’t hesitate to share your story—your unique experiences and insights can inspire others and highlight the importance of women’s contributions.

Remember, it’s not just about recognition; it’s about joining a powerful network of women who uplift each other and drive change. Participating in the awards can be a transformative experience, so go for it! You have so much to offer, and your voice deserves to be heard.

What’s happening next in your work?
In the next phase of my work, I’m focusing on larger international projects that aim to create a lasting impact on people's lives. I want to be a source of change and support for those in need, just as I was fortunate to receive through scholarships and mentorships on my own journey. My goal is to ensure that everything I do continues to empower others and make a meaningful difference in their lives.

What are your big plans for the future?
I’m not able to share the specifics of my plans just yet. I believe in letting actions speak louder than words, as Mahatma Gandhi said, 'The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.' Right now, I’m focused on making an impact through my current projects.

How can we connect with you?
https://www.facebook.com/ann.abesadze
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-abesadze-8a586a115/
https://www.instagram.com/abesadze_anna/