In the words of Mariam Kavshbaia: “I have high hopes for young people who are less influenced by gender stereotypes.”
Mariam Kavshbaia, a 20-year-old youth worker and journalist, is studying digital media and communication at the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs. She is also actively engaged in non-formal education. As a trainer with the Girl Scouts Association “Dia,” Mariam collaborates lead sessions for young people in Tbilisi and across the regions with the support from UN Women and the European Union. These sessions feature interactive discussions on issues such as sexual harassment and bullying, early and forced marriage, domestic violence, and gender equality. The initiative is part of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA.
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“I first encountered Scouting when I was 13. I discovered that these people not only have fun together but also care deeply about the world and doing good. I later learned that many non-formal education methods have their roots in Scouting.”
Mariam began as a Scout herself, then became an assistant leader, and is now a team leader. Drawing from her experience, she believes that Scouting plays a particularly powerful role in the lives of girls - it helps build their confidence, strength, and resilience. “This unique mission motivates me even more,” she says. “It’s why I joined the UN Women initiative with such enthusiasm.”
Working with young people is always interesting, especially when boys are also present at the trainings. “For girls, the stories we share are instantly recognizable - experiences of sexual harassment, for instance, are sadly common. But for boys, these conversations can be eye-opening. They often ask, surprised, ‘Is there anyone here who hasn’t experienced this?’” Boys need more information about the difficulties that girls experience in their daily lives, so their attendance is really very important.
Mariam believes it is essential that girls and boys talk openly with each other about their challenges and the negative impact of gender stereotypes. Otherwise, it will be difficult to achieve change. Separate conversations are less effective. That’s something I’ve come to understand through my work.”
Being a trainer on issues of violence and equality carries great responsibility. Often the reality is more difficult than you expect. For example, Reality is often more difficult than we expect. I’ve met girls my own age who already have children of school age. But their dreams of a better future for their children give me hope.”
Unfortunately, women’s rights are facing setbacks in many parts of the world, today. We also have many problems in Georgia, where propaganda and gender stereotypes are particularly harmful to women. Some part of society still believe these messages, but fortunately, many people around us think differently and recognize the important role women play in our country’s future. I hope for young people who are less influenced by gender stereotypes and have much more information. In any case, if even one girl benefits from the knowledge shared during our trainings, that will already be a meaningful achievement for me.”
„This article was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of UN Women and UNFPA and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.”