Cafe “Limena” opened a year ago in a building in Poti that holds cultural heritage status. In this short period of time, it has become a favourite venue for the city’s youth. More than just a social space, “Limena” is a platform for active individuals to realize their ideas. Its mission includes promoting non-formal education for young people, integrating and socializing people with disabilities, caring for stray animals, and supporting the local population in addressing regional challenges.
“This is the only free space in the city where young people can learn and relax together, share ideas, find like-minded individuals, and grow,” says Eliso Janashia, founder of “Limena.”
Tsotne Chanturia, 17, is a frequent visitor.
“For me, “Limena” is an island of freedom where I feel comfortable,” he says.
In cooperation with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), within the framework of the UN Joint Programme “For Gender Equality” supported by Sweden, “Limena” hosted a series of educational events. These included not only meetings but also film screenings.
Young people who gathered at “Limena,” along with invited expert Elene Kaikhosroshvili, had the opportunity to discuss the importance of gender equality, reproductive health and rights, and the prevention of gender-based violence and harmful practices. The discussions encouraged participants to reflect on how they can challenge the social norms and stereotypes surrounding them.
Film screenings and the discussions that follow are among the most effective tools for this purpose, especially for young audiences. Carefully selected films can reveal a wide range of multi-layered stereotypes, social norms, and prejudices — deepening and enriching the subsequent conversation.
“Local young people are not spoiled with such events. [Here], they gain knowledge and skills, share both positive and negative experiences, expand their social networks, and develop their own ideas,” says Eliso Janashia, adding, “This is a free space for free people.”
Elene Kaikhosroshvili also notes that the two-day meeting was fully interactive, which she found encouraging, as the participants’ high engagement reflected their genuine interest and willingness to speak out.
“Poti is probably the only city where I’ve held a gender equality session attended equally by boys and girls — and where boys had just as much to say about gender issues as girls,” she says.
“Watching films, engaging in discussions, and listening to thought-provoking speeches delivered by interesting authors and trainers are integral to the development process. “Limena” gives you the opportunity to strengthen public speaking, debate, project writing, and implementation skills,” says Tsotne.
UNFPA’s long-standing work with adolescents and youth has shown that social norm transformation is achieved through the active participation of young people.
“It is important for the United Nations Population Fund to provide age-appropriate information to young people on topics such as gender equality, human rights, bodily autonomy, gender-based violence, etc. These meetings also help young people gain the skills they need to make informed decisions throughout their lives and to foster an environment free of violence,” says Nana Avaliani, UNFPA Gender Programme Analyst.
Youth development and engagement are central to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda. It is crucial that young people fully participate in shaping a better society.
One of UNFPA’s key goals is to support adolescents and youth who seek to make change in their communities, combat harmful stereotypes, and engage actively in public life. This mission is carried out in partnership with local and community-based organizations.
