Embark on a transformative journey with Elene Toidze, fueled by her partnership with the British Council since 2016. From overcoming skepticism to fostering global collaborations, Elene's dedication has propelled Georgia's creative landscape forward.
Through British Council partnerships, she has deepened her expertise, expanded networks, and contributed significantly to Georgia's creative ecosystem. Join us as we explore Elene's inspiring journey of empowerment and innovation, driven by her commitment to harnessing creativity for positive change.
‘My journey with the British Council started around 2016 when the concept of Creative Industries was just beginning to take root in Georgia. I worked at the Ministry of Culture, laying the groundwork for our cultural policy and strategies in this exciting field. The journey ignited a fire in me, a drive to support the development of creative industries, believing in their power to propel societal and economic progress.
Despite general scepticism about the economic value of creativity, I passionately sought resources for sectoral research. Finally, at Creative Georgia, I initiated a study mapping the creative landscape in Georgia, identifying challenges, opportunities, and the sector's impact on jobs and economic growth.
The British Council became more than a professional support system; it became a partner that resonated with my mission. Together, we worked on unlocking the potential of creative industries, and their guidance, resources, and connections aligned seamlessly with my vision.
Moreover, my collaboration with the British Council influenced my approach to promoting inclusivity in the sector, thanks to insightful activities and exchanges. Engaging experiences at the Creative Industries Forum in Istanbul and the BEYOND Conference in London broadened my perspective on the global creative economy, offering valuable insights and connections.
The connections formed during these events extended beyond networking; they became vital relationships with like- minded professionals globally. Now, as the Director of Creative Clusters’ Alliance, I leverage these connections to advocate for the growth of Creative Industries in Georgia and beyond.
Reflecting on my journey, the British Council has been more than a facilitator of professional growth; it's an ally in staying true to my passion for leveraging creativity as a force for positive change. Working closely with them, I've gained the tools, insights, and connections needed to make a real impact in the creative sector in Georgia. With the continued support of the British Council, we are pushing the boundaries, making a difference in our creative community and beyond.’