Mirabaldebi - Empowering Abused Women Through Education
Nino Salukvadze, a lawyer by profession, founded the Mirabaldebi project in 2019 with the goal of empowering women who have experienced violence. The inspiration behind the project came from her experience while working on her master's thesis in a state shelter for victims of violence in Tbilisi. Witnessing the inadequate conditions for resocialization, Nino realized that action was necessary.
Mirabaldebi is a social enterprise that combats violence against women through education. The enterprise produces district books, bookmarks, bags, and socks that tell the stories of the first women parliamentarians in Georgia, known as the "Women of May 26". The proceeds from the sale of these products are used to finance the organization's projects, including the establishment of educational spaces in shelters for victims of violence.
Nino believes that education is the most effective way to eliminate violence against women. Mirabaldebi aims to introduce the Women of May 26 to society and change the reality that a large part of society does not know about them. Since 2021, the project has participated in many exhibitions, both locally and internationally, to tell the stories of these women who contributed greatly to the development of the country, the introduction of democratic values, and the spread of education.
The project has encountered difficulties in convincing the public to come to them. As a social enterprise, they "sell" an idea, not a product. Each product is marked with the biographies of the first women parliamentarians to promote these women and bring their stories to as many people as possible, especially young people, to motivate them to become decent citizens and get involved in important processes for the country. Stereotypes related to the topic of violence in society are also a challenge, and the project works on raising public awareness in various directions.
Mirabaldebi was included in the Women Entrepreneurs Development Program, which helped them to communicate with people and companies that are interesting to them and participate in various events. Nino believes that such programs are crucial for entrepreneurs, especially female entrepreneurs who are just starting a business. It provides a great experience that helps them take the next steps and see what they need to fix or change to become a successful business.
Mirabaldebi's main slogan is "education against violence", emphasizing the importance of education in bringing economic independence and strengthening women who have been subjected to violence. The project aims to produce different series that unite strong, realized, and independent women, becoming a source of inspiration for many women and giving them the strength to fight for a better life.
In summary, Mirabaldebi is an inspiring social enterprise that empowers women through education, tells the stories of the Women of May 26, and promotes the importance of economic independence. Despite the challenges they face, Mirabaldebi continues to make progress in their mission to combat violence against women and create a healthy, dignified environment where each person is recognized and valued.