2 months in Zugdidi

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After 2 months in Zugdidi I can tell that I managed to find my paths and routines.

What happened so far:

As of work:
1. We are working on a shadow report to CEDAW on the women's situation in the region of Samegrelo (the region neighbouring with Abkhazia)
2. As I expected it is wonderful to work with small, local NGOs - you are heard, your opinion counts and you keep your options open. Every day brings something new.
3. I participated in a training, that was on the seacoast ( yes! :) )
4. I met a lot of inspiring women.


Personal life

1. I am taking Georgian and Russian classes. So two new alphabets to be absorbed by my head - not an easy task.
2. I travelled around the country - the best way to do it is with a rented car and a group of friends. It is definitely worth it.
3. I tried many Georgian dishes - khinkali and khachapuri, but also sulguni (cheese), gebzhlia (cheese dish), nazuki (bread with cinnamon) and plenty of others. Conclusion? Georgian cuisine is one of the best in the world.
4. I am happy to buy real food here - all meat, fruits and vegetables are from small farmers. The animals live freely and the fruits and veggies you buy according to season.
5. I feed everyday some stray dogs, so I met a lot of super cute friends on four paws.

Main difficulties:
1. Language barrier
2. Being the only volunteer

Good news:
1. My combination of Russian, Georgian, Polish, English and sign language - is sufficient to communicate.
2. Four more volunteers are coming soom :)

Let's see what is going to be next.




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