For many mothers with multiple children, life is a constant balancing act. From early morning breakfasts to late-night homework, from caring for sick family members to stretching every Lari to feed their children — there’s often little time left for themselves. Their dreams are often postponed. Learning a new profession? Starting a business? For many, these ideas feel far away, if not impossible. But for Eka and Maia, two determined women from Imereti, something changed. They found each other and they found hope through World Vision Georgia’s ERTAD project.

Eka, a schoolteacher and mother of three, is the sole breadwinner in her family. Her husband lives with a physical

disability, making her income the family's only source of support. Maia, a mother of six, faced her own challenges living in extreme poverty with limited income from her previous job as a nurse, while raising a large family with her supportive husband, a local priest. 

Their paths crossed during a positive parenting training organized by World Vision Georgia within the project ERTAD financially supported by Sweden. Trainings usually turn into space, where mothers gathered not only to learn, but to talk, share struggles, and connect.

“This training was more than just lessons. We shared our challenges and dreams. That’s when I found out Maia was experienced in massage therapy and wanted to start a small massage cabinet. Her energy and determination inspired me to learn the profession and join her," says Eka.

With encouragement from ERTAD project consultants, Eka was referred to the Kutaisi Mayor’s Office economic empowerment initiative. She completed a certified massage therapy course and received essential equipment to begin her new journey.

They found a small space in Kutaisi, teamed up with a third specialist — a psychologist — and opened their massage cabinet: ReVibe. They now offer therapeutic and relaxation massages, post-rehabilitation therapy, and even specialized massages for children.

“The most valuable thing the project gave me was motivation and self-confidence,” Eka explains. “Becoming a massage therapist was just a dream, but now it’s real. Now, I have a profession that I love and that helps others.”

The flexibility of running their own business was crucial. As mothers of large families, they needed to set their own working hours and support one another when parenting duties came first.

What makes their story even more remarkable is the deep friendship and mutual support they built.

“People often ask me why I need a partner. I tell them I’m a mother of six—having Eka by my side means we can always rely on each other,” Maia says. “If I can’t come, she takes care of the clients. We are not competitors, we are partners.”

When one of them faces challenges — a sick child, a busy family day — the other steps in. They even borrow equipment from each other. There is no competition, only, trust, and care.

Their business is in its early stages, but already making a difference. They’ve produced business cards, built a Facebook page, and connected with local medical professionals to spread the word. However, challenges remain. They dream of opening a rehabilitation center - a goal that requires more equipment, space, and funding.

“People need to know what we offer and where to find us. That’s why we made business cards and a Facebook page. We’re doing all we can,” says Maia, - “But it’s hard to grow when rents are high and resources are low. We dream of a proper rehabilitation center. We’re not there yet — but we’re moving forward.”

Despite the challenges, their hearts remain open. So far, have already provided free massage therapy to four children from vulnerable families supported by ERTAD project. One case even helped uncover a misdiagnosed health condition, leading to timely surgery for a child who has now fully recovered.

“This work gives me a sense of purpose. Others supported me when I needed it now I can give back.”

What started as a casual conversation at a parenting training became a life-changing partnership. With support from the ERTAD project, Eka and Maia turned a shared idea into a meaningful, sustainable source of income, hope and partnership.

Their journey shows us what women can achieve when they are seen, heard, and supported and when they stand together, not as competitors, but as good partners. 

“This project brought us together. Now we’re building something not just for ourselves, but for others too.”