ALDA is happy to introduce two new Local Democracy Agencies representatives in Odesa (Ukraine) and Georgia, who will play crucial roles in promoting local democracy and fostering community engagement in their respective regions.
Mr. Shota Kvaratskhelia, new Delegate Local Democracy Agency Georgia
ALDA is excited to welcome Mr. Shota Kvaratskhelia as new representative of LDA Georgia. Holding a Master’s degree in International Politics and Diplomacy from Nicolaus Copernicus University (Poland), Shota has extensive experience in project management, intercultural communication, and conflict resolution. His background includes mentoring and international cooperation, having worked with organisations such as the Information Center on NATO and EU, World Vision Georgia, and the Red Cross Society Georgia. Shota’s volunteer work at LDA Georgia and his role as a youth program facilitator at World Vision have sharpened his leadership skills and deepened his commitment to empowering young people. Established in 2007 as part of ALDA’s strategic initiatives in the South Caucasus, LDA Georgia is dedicated to strengthening local democracy and enhancing civil society in the region. Its mission focuses on supporting democratic reforms in Georgia while developing innovative solutions to tackle both local and national challenges. LDA Georgia achieves its objectives through collaboration with local and international stakeholders, implementing key initiatives such as:
- Capacity-building programs for local authorities and civil society organisations
- Promotion of active citizenship and good governance
- Advocacy for women’s and youth rights
- Support for cross-border and regional cooperation
- Promotion of EU integration and European values at the local level
LDA Georgia is currently working on several impactful projects, among which “The Voice of Youth in Local Self-Government”, enhancing youth participation in the Kutaisi Municipality and fostering dialogue with local authorities; “More Transparency and Accountability for Effective Self-Government”, aiming to ensure effective self-governance in the municipalities of Terjola, Tkibuli, and Baghdati while promoting civil society involvement in the decision-making process; and finally, the “Civil Society STAR Initiative” focusing on strengthening civil society as an independent, sustainable, transparent, and accountable development actor across Georgia.
Mrs. Valentyna Puzikova, new Delegate Local Democracy Agency Odesa
ALDA is pleased to introduce Mrs. Valentyna Puzikova as the new delegate of LDA Odesa. Proud Ukrainian from Kharkiv, Valentyna has a deep appreciation for Odesa and is committed to enhancing democracy in the region. As a lawyer, she possesses a unique ability to analyse democracy issues both professionally and personally, creating a synergistic effect that will benefit local initiatives. Valentyna officially joined the LDA Odesa team on September 2, 2024, while LDA Odesa was officially opened in November 2023, marking it as the third Local Democracy Agency established in Ukraine. It serves as an instrument of peace and social cohesion and represents the first step toward creating additional LDAs in the country as part of ALDA’s flagship initiative in Ukraine.
ALDA collaborates with the « Little Wind » Centre in Odesa, which operates under the auspices of the charitable foundation “Winds of Changes.” This centre is dedicated to the socialisation and adaptation of children displaced by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, providing a haven for them to learn, grow, and thrive. Current projects include the Smart Family House and the Children’s Centre, both aimed at supporting vulnerable groups.
With the help of Valentyna and Shota, ALDA is poised to make significant strides in enhancing local democracy and empowering communities in Odesa and Georgia.
Their commitment to fostering dialogue and civic engagement will undoubtedly contribute to the development of resilient, democratic societies in the region. As these initiatives unfold, ALDA remains dedicated to collaborating with local partners to create a brighter future for all.