Local Social Entrepreneur Supports Youth Develop their Woodworking Skills

Mikheil Chkholaria lives in Orsantia village in Zugdidi Municipality and has been practicing woodwork for years. His work covers a diverse range of products that cater to a wide range of needs and occasions, such as kitchen products, decorative household items, as well as commemorative and festive accessories.

Previously he had rented a small space for his work in Zugdidi, but his vision had always been to create a workshop and a social enterprise in his village of Orsantia, as he saw that that there was a lack of development opportunities in the local community, especially for vulnerable people and youth. In villages, finding suitable spaces for project implementation poses a significant challenge since most of the buildings are unsuitable or difficult to purchase. Therefore, Mikheil decided to construct a workshop himself, where he can provide employment opportunities for local people, including those who may otherwise struggle to find meaningful work in the area.

While establishing the workshop Mikheil applied to the Zugdidi Local Action Group (LAG) grant competition to acquire various woodworking tools and equipment. This financial support is provided by Zugdidi LAG under the project the “Improving local governance through inclusive development approaches”, funded by the Austrian Development Agency and implemented by Action Against Hunger. Even while the work is ongoing, Mikheil is already working with young people, showing them the ropes of his trade.

“We are on a mission to help those who often face challenges – but it’s not just about work. We want everyone to have chance to learn and grow professionally. We are here to support individuals in gaining skills for their own businesses”, says Mikheil.

In his workshop, young people and others will learn craft-making techniques, skills and knowledge through trainings and guidance. Mikheil plans to support them to create linkages with various entrepreneurs working in similar trades to learn more through practical experiences.

He believes that this social enterprise has the potential to stimulate economic development and contribute to local tourism in the village by attracting visitors who are interested in handmade goods and various craft-making techniques.

Mikheil has recently been successful in a grant competition announced by Zugdidi Municipality City Hall. This support is within the framework of the EU-funded project “EU4Culture” which will allow him to create and develop a multi-functional creative space that will provide increased access for local entrepreneurs to improve their skills in craft, marketing, and business management.

                                                                                      Workshop in Orsantia during construction

           Mikheil Chkholaria (centre back) with Zugdidi LAG members and representatives of Action Against Hunger