Anna Abesadze, a Georgian national, is a Guest Lecturer and Adviser to Grigol Robakidze University’s Rector. She is also the Global Governance Coordinator for the international humanitarian organization World Vision International. Anna’s journey, which includes study and work in five different countries is truly inspirational.
Anna was invited to the Global Summit of Women Leaders held in England where she was nominated as a finalist for the prestigious Woman Changing the World Awards. Anna was selected as one of nine finalists in the Leadership Award among candidates from around the world. She was given the opportunity to co-author the book “Women Living Fearlessly” which will be published in New York. Anna told us more about this amazing development.
Could you tell us more?
Thank you for your interest in the project and for the warm welcome.
Women Living Fearlessly was published in New York, USA, at the beginning October. It is available on Amazon in Kindle, audio and physical versions. In addition to New York and Australia, book presentations will be held in Saudi Arabia and Australia.
Women Living Fearlessly tells the stories of a number of remarkable women from all over the world. It explores the journeys of these women and reveals their internal and external challenges. I hope that it will serve as a source for inspiration and empowerment to readers.
What was the main focus and goal of your book chapter?
My personal experience of imposter syndrome, and strategies to overcome it, is the central theme of my contribution. Imposter Syndrome is the feeling of being a fraud and doubting your own abilities despite apparent success. This phenomenon can cause anxiety in even highly accomplished people like Albert Einstein and Michelle Obama. These individuals experienced self-doubt, despite their wide recognition and achievements.
My chapter aims to raise awareness of imposter syndrome among women and young people. I want to help them recognize the issue early, understand their own worth and abilities, and improve their mental health. By creating a supportive environment, and providing practical strategies, I aim to empower girls who are facing these challenges alone. I want to inspire them to persevere, and believe in their own worth.
How did you come up with the idea for the book and how did you get women leaders from around the world to contribute?
I’ve always wanted to write a novel, but I didn’t know when or where the opportunity would come. Since several years, I have been writing down insights, both personal and professional, that often come to mind just before bedtime, only to disappear by morning.
The turning point was the Global Summit of Women Leaders held in Windsor, England in May. This event, which included an awards ceremony, brought 300 remarkable women together from around the globe. I was honored to have been selected as a finalist for the Woman Changing the World Awards. This recognition placed me with some extraordinary women. This connection led to several of us, myself included, being invited to co-author this book.
I never thought this opportunity would come to me so soon in my life. It seems that when we truly want something, we attract the right opportunities.
What international experience can you share with us? What made you return to your home country after living and working in five countries?
In 2009, I began my journey into international education when I was awarded a scholarship by the U.S. State Department under the Future Leaders Exchange Program. This opportunity allowed for me to spend one year studying in the United States. Later, I received a full-ride Erasmus Mundus Scholarship, which allowed me to complete my Master’s Degree at Tallinn University, Estonia.
After gaining work experience in Turkey Bulgaria and Estonia, I spent three years in the United States on an H1B visa. After my contract ended, it felt like the right time to settle down and start a family. Despite having offers from Estonia and Finland, I and my husband decided to return home to Georgia.
The idea of returning home was always in my mind, but I wasn’t sure when it would happen. The pandemic hastened my decision to return home. It increased the number of virtual job opportunities available and gave me more confidence to make the transition. I had considered moving back to Georgia before, but the opportunities didn’t align with my goals. Fortunately, now that I can work remotely for an international organization from Georgia, it is financially feasible to remain here.
You were one of the 13 finalists in Dubai‘s GESS Education Award for “Outstanding Contributions to Education” last year. You also became a finalist in the Woman Changing the World Awards. You were recently honored by the GISR Foundation as the “Women Changemaker Of The Year.” What does this award mean to you, and what do you think of it?
These awards are extremely meaningful to me as they validate my work and reinforces my commitment to make a difference. The fact that my efforts to help my country have been recognized on such prestigious platforms confirms that they are not only valued, but also aligned to a larger global mission. These honors inspire me to continue to strive for excellence and to push boundaries in my work.
What do you believe is the key to success?
Anna: Success is an experience that is deeply personal, so there’s no one formula for everyone. I do believe that success is a combination of factors, including hard work, a clear vision and goals, unwavering resolve, self-discipline and effective time management. These elements can help people overcome obstacles, stay motivated and seize opportunities.
By Sophio Malania
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