Hello,
My name is Maia Kezevadze, and I'm from the village of Gelati in the Imereti region. I am a philologist by profession, and I also work in the hospitality sector. Additionally, I am a certified trainer in agrotourism and gastrotourism. My story began about 13 years ago when I moved to my ancestral land and decided to open a guest house in my family's home. Here, I offer guests masterclasses in Imeretian cuisine, providing them with an authentic and unique experience.
As you may know, the hospitality industry constantly requires renewal and development. I have been actively searching for different opportunities in this field. During this search, I came across a joint initiative of the European Union, Sweden, and Austria known as the GRETA project. I can confidently say that the assistance provided has significantly improved my business. With the support received, the Agrohouse "Korena'' is now ready to welcome guests year-round.
I learned about the project from Elkana, with whom I have had a longstanding partnership. I got some info about an upcoming informational meeting for a project focused on promoting tourism and organic agriculture in the highlands of Georgia. Despite my busy schedule, I made it to the information meeting, which inspired me to write the project. I diligently followed the process instructions, and the results did not take long to materialise; I soon became a beneficiary of GRETA.
The main obstacle to the operation of my business in all seasons was that I needed central heating. Additionally, the lack of essential household appliances, such as a washing machine and a refrigerator, made it very challenging for me to operate effectively. However, with the combined support of the European Union, Sweden, and Austria, all the issues hindering the hotel business have been resolved, and now it is fully equipped and operating smoothly.
While people were eager to visit us, they hesitated to come during the winter due to the unfavourable conditions. The assistance provided prompt results, allowing us to welcome guests even in winter.
As I mentioned earlier, I am a trainer myself, and I always emphasise to others that in the field of hospitality, whether agrotourism or gastrotourism, being a good host and having a genuine love for your work are the foremost requirements!
I would also like to share my humble immediate plans. I am currently in the process of expanding my business by adding another cottage and training space. Nowadays, organising training sessions has proven to be challenging, as I must rent space for trainees in Kutaisi. It has long been my dream to have my own well-equipped training space. Therefore, I strongly desire and am willing to collaborate with new partners. Interested parts can reach me at the following email address: kezevadzemaia@gmail.com
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With the support of the European Union, Sweden and Austria, 68 small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in the highland region of Georgia have received substantial assistance for their business development.
Take advantage of the upcoming success stories, where incredibly fascinating people will share their experiences with us.
Project GRETA | “Green Economy: Sustainable Mountain Tourism and Organic Agriculture” is implemented by the Austria Development Agency in Georgia with the support of the European Union, Austria, and Sweden. The project aims to improve the business environment and create new income opportunities in two important sectors of the Georgian economy, mountain tourism and organic agriculture. For more information about the GRETA project, please visit: www.gretaproject.ge.
This material has been produced with the assistance of the European Union, Sweden, and Austria, within the framework of the GRETA project. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Austrian Development Agency /GRETA Project and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union, Sweden, or Austria.
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