From Mountain to Sea: The New Life of Eco-Migrants from Svaneti

speaker1

Welcome to *From Mountain to Sea*! I’m your host, and today we’re diving into the incredible story of eco-migrants from Svaneti, a breathtaking region in Georgia. These families had to leave their ancestral homes due to climate and environmental changes, and they’ve started a new life in the coastal town of Daba. We’ll explore their journey, the challenges they faced, and the triumphs they’ve achieved. So, buckle up, and let’s get started!

speaker2

Oh, I’m so excited to hear more! Svaneti sounds like such a magical place. Can you give us a brief overview of what makes it so special and what the challenges are?

speaker1

Absolutely! Svaneti is a region of unparalleled beauty, with its towering mountains, ancient towers, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and the connection to nature is profound. However, this beauty comes with its challenges. In recent years, climate change has brought more frequent and severe weather events, like landslides and heavy snowfall. These have made life increasingly difficult and even dangerous for the local communities. For many, staying became unsustainable.

speaker2

That’s really intense. Can you give us an example of how these changes have affected a specific family?

speaker1

Sure. Let’s take the story of the Kapana family. Giorgi Kapana and his daughter Tamar had to leave their home in Svaneti after a major landslide destroyed their ancestral home. The events leading up to this were harrowing. They recall the relentless rains and the ground beneath their feet literally shifting. It was a heart-wrenching decision, but they knew they had to go for the safety and future of their family.

speaker2

Wow, that’s incredibly moving. When they made the decision to leave, what were their options? Was migration the only choice?

speaker1

That’s a great question. When the Kapana family faced the decision to leave, they considered several options. They thought about moving to a larger city like Batumi, but the cost of living was a significant barrier. Daba, a smaller and more affordable coastal town, seemed like the best fit. The government’s relocation program also offered them support, including a new home. But the transition wasn’t easy. Giorgi had to find a new job, and Tamar had to adapt to a new school and community.

speaker2

I can imagine how tough that must have been. How did the community in Daba receive them? I mean, moving to a new place where the culture and way of life might be different can be really challenging.

speaker1

Initially, the reception was mixed. The local community in Daba is used to a more laid-back, resort-like lifestyle, and the arrival of new families from a mountainous region brought a different dynamic. Some residents were welcoming and eager to help, while others were more skeptical. Giorgi and Tamar had to work hard to integrate, but over time, they built strong connections. Giorgi found a job in a local confectionery, and Tamar excelled in school. They even started a new tradition of hosting a Svaneti-themed festival in Daba, bringing a piece of their home to their new community.

speaker2

That’s amazing! It sounds like they’ve really made the best of their new situation. But what about the economic and social challenges they faced? How did they overcome those?

speaker1

Economically, it was a tough start. Giorgi had to find a new job and adapt to a different work environment. He started as a helper in a bakery and worked his way up to a more skilled position. Tamar’s parents also had to navigate the local job market, which can be competitive. Socially, they had to build new relationships and find their place in the community. They joined local clubs and organizations, which helped them feel more connected. Over time, they’ve not only adapted but thrived, becoming an integral part of Daba’s community.

speaker2

It’s inspiring to hear about their resilience. How do they manage to preserve their cultural heritage in this new environment?

speaker1

Preserving their cultural heritage is a top priority for the Kapana family. They’ve incorporated Svaneti traditions into their daily life, from cooking traditional dishes to celebrating local festivals. They even started a small group where they teach Svaneti dances and songs to the local children. This not only helps them stay connected to their roots but also enriches the community in Daba. It’s a beautiful example of how cultural diversity can bring people together.

speaker2

That’s wonderful! Looking to the future, what are their hopes and dreams for their new life in Daba?

speaker1

Giorgi and Tamar have big dreams for their future in Daba. Giorgi hopes to open his own bakery, combining traditional Svaneti recipes with local flavors. Tamar, who is now in her final year of high school, dreams of becoming a teacher and helping other children, especially those from migrant families, adapt to their new environments. They’re also excited about the possibility of expanding their cultural events and making Daba a more inclusive and diverse community.

speaker2

That’s so heartwarming. What role do you think the government and NGOs have played in supporting these eco-migrants?

speaker1

The government’s relocation program has been crucial in providing the initial support, such as housing and basic necessities. However, there’s always room for improvement. NGOs have also played a significant role by offering additional resources like language classes, job training, and mental health support. These organizations help bridge the gap and ensure that eco-migrants have the tools they need to succeed in their new homes. The collaboration between the government and NGOs is essential for the long-term success of these families.

speaker2

It sounds like a lot of effort goes into making this transition successful. What are some key lessons we can take away from the Kapana family’s story?

speaker1

The story of the Kapana family teaches us the power of resilience and community. It shows that even in the face of great adversity, people can find the strength to rebuild and thrive. It also highlights the importance of support systems, whether from the government, NGOs, or local communities. Finally, it reminds us that cultural diversity is a strength, and by embracing it, we can create richer, more inclusive societies. Their story is a testament to the human spirit and the ability to adapt and overcome challenges.

speaker2

Thank you so much for sharing this incredible story with us. It’s been a real privilege to hear about the Kapana family and their journey. For our listeners, if you’ve been inspired by this story, please share it and support organizations that help eco-migrants. Until next time, stay tuned for more stories of resilience and hope on *From Mountain to Sea*!