The Generation Next project has been one of the most rewarding initiatives implemented by YMCA Georgia in partnership with YMCA Europe.

Designed to ensure that socially deprived students in the South Caucasus complete their studies in Georgia and Armenia, the Generation Next project integrates co-curricular programs to support a fair and sustainable society in the region.

Through this effort, we have made a significant impact on the lives of 11 young people from different regions of Georgia, acting as a catalyst for change and witnessing a major transformation in their values and actions.

Rima Marangozyan was one of the project’s beneficiaries: a young woman from Akhalkalaki, an ethnic Armenian town in southern Georgia isolated from the rest of the country in many aspects of life.

She has become a true champion of the project’s goal: to “…enhance knowledge and social skills amongst young people, empowering them to lead a meaningful and independent life able to contribute to building up a strong civil society.”

Now one of the key leaders of YMCA Georgia, this is her story:

“Receiving the Generation Next scholarship from YMCA Europe and Bread for the World was a transformative moment in my life. Growing up as a minority in Georgia, the dream of pursuing a master’s degree at a prestigious university seemed out of reach due to financial constraints. However, this scholarship turned that dream into reality, enabling me to enroll at the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs (GIPA) in Multimedia Journalism and Media Management.

GIPA is renowned as the best institution for journalism in the South Caucasus, and being able to study there was an incredible opportunity. The scholarship covered half of my tuition fees, alleviating a significant financial burden and allowing me to focus on my studies. The education I received at GIPA equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in my field.

One of the highlights of my scholarship years was participating in the Erasmus+ program, which allowed me to spend a semester in Norway. This experience was nothing short of amazing. Studying in Norway broadened my horizons, exposed me to different cultures, and provided a unique perspective on my field of study. It was an enriching experience that I would not have had without the support of the Generation Next scholarship.

Currently, I work at GIPA Media Lab, a university program dedicated to teaching ethnic minorities from Javakheti and Marneuli various multimedia skills. We offer courses in photography, documentary filmmaking, and social media management. This role is incredibly fulfilling, as I get to empower individuals from marginalized communities, helping them tell their stories and make their voices heard.

Volunteering has always been a significant part of my journey. I managed to do various activities with YMCA Georgia for over 10 children from my region, providing them with support, guidance, and opportunities to grow. This aspect of my experience was deeply rewarding, as I saw firsthand the positive impact it had on their lives.

I am grateful to my local YMCA for selecting me for this scholarship and to Bread for the World and YMCA Europe for providing the support that made all this possible. Their belief in my potential allowed me to achieve my academic goals and contribute to my community in meaningful ways. The Generation Next scholarship not only opened doors for me but also enabled me to open doors for others, creating a ripple effect of positive change.”