【Profile】
Tech diplomat, researcher-scientist, SDG Global Leader Program (Kyoto),PhD Candidate at Kyoto Institute of Technology
①What program brought you to Japan?
In the summer of 2024, with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), I came to Kyoto, Japan. I won a competition for the SDG Global Leader program, which involves working on projects that positively impact society and the environment.
I have personal experience of using a wheelchair in the past, and since then, I’ve been deeply interested in the daily lives of people with different abilities.
My research focuses on studying inclusive innovation ecosystems. Unlike Tokyo, Kyoto stands out for its calm and low-stress atmosphere. I was surprised to learn that, according to statistics, 70% of people with disabilities in Japan have mental or cognitive limitations. This intrigued me and shaped how I define disability in my research. I was also fascinated by Japanese mental health exercises.
I was fortunate in my choice of city—Kyoto, with the Kamogawa River, thousands of so-called Zen gardens, and fast internet everywhere, creates an ideal environment for research. I’m using the knowledge gained in this new setting to conduct experiments with the potential for positive social impact.
②What are you currently working on in Japan as part of your program?
I am currently serving as an ambassador for the European Innovation Council and as the deputy chair of the UN Economic Commission for Europe’s Council on Innovation Competitiveness and Public-Private Partnerships. For over five years, I’ve been working in the field of innovation management, and I’m also actively involved in startup activities in the Kansai region and Tokyo. Additionally, I’m an associate professor at the University of Business and Technology, and I’m developing skills as an Ikigai mentor. While this is a hobby, it greatly helps me when working on cases involving mental and cognitive limitations.
My research focuses on the impact of innovation ecosystems created by people with disabilities within Japanese subcultures. I also explore how cultural, philosophical, and technological contexts influence these processes.
For example, in Okinawan subculture, there are practices where people with disabilities contribute to environmental conservation by working on coral preservation. Individuals suffering from stress or diagnosed with mental conditions grow and care for new corals in small aquariums. Those with hearing impairments work on the ocean floor in areas devastated by typhoons, helping regenerate coral. People on the autism spectrum participate in process management, detect subtle changes, and contribute to refining specialized software.
So far, my research has identified seven new innovations created by people with disabilities within this subculture. It’s a fascinating process that shows potential for transferring the design of these innovative services to other ecosystems.
③What are the differences and similarities between everyday life in Georgia and Japan?
In Japanese society, there is a noticeable complementary effect between individuals and their roles. This culture of coexistence and collaboration serves as a vital pillar for social cohesion. Moreover, unique Japanese philosophies such as wabi-sabi, ikigai, mono no aware, and countless other invaluable wisdoms are deeply embedded not only in science but also in everyday life, guided by ideals of harmony and beauty.
Additionally, the aesthetic of minimalism is widely embraced in Japan, where the value of simplicity and having fewer possessions influences lifestyle and design. The perspective of finding happiness in ordinary moments of daily life is a distinctive trait of Japan.
Such cultural values make Japan a country with unique social resilience and richness, and one that possesses the ability to influence the world.
④What are your plans for the future after living in Japan?
My goal is to conduct a “mapping” of inclusive technologies and innovative services, in order to establish a solid foundation for an inclusive fund that will support and finance such innovations in the future.
I have ambitions that I want to achieve step by step, without rushing. One of them is to share the experience, knowledge, and research I gained in Japan with Georgia. I want to apply the new perspectives and ways of thinking I acquired during my time in Japan in practical contexts. In particular, I’m exploring how theoretical and academic knowledge can be made practically useful for society.
I believe that the unique perspectives of people with disabilities have the potential to generate new innovations. For Georgia, I’m studying how these innovations can be effectively implemented in society.
On a less academic note, one of my dreams is to introduce popular rhythm games from Japanese arcades to Georgia. My child often plays these games while we’re in Japan, and I’ve noticed their positive impact on health and mental well-being. These games are not yet available in Georgia. By sharing this new experience, I hope to contribute not only to enjoyment but also to the physical and mental health of the Georgian people.
⑤Do you have a message for Georgians who want to work or study in Japan?
I’d like to dedicate this message to those who are interested in Japanese culture but don’t know the language—and I want to encourage them: even without knowing the language, you can come to Japan.
I’ve been learning Japanese for just one year, and before that, coming here without knowing the language was truly a big challenge. However, I noticed that people here are always kind and ready to help. Living in this country, I’ve felt that the warmth of people goes beyond words.
In Kyoto, on the “Philosopher’s Path,” I had the chance to meet a woman who is now my best friend. Later, she invited me to her art exhibition and, to encourage me in learning Japanese writing, she showed me how to write Georgian letters. This left a deep impression on me. The Japanese people’s attitude toward respecting other cultures was a great inspiration, and it further strengthened my motivation to deepen my understanding of the Japanese language and culture.
I truly believe that connections between people can transcend language and other barriers—when hearts speak, they go beyond words.
