Building bridges of friendship through culture, compassion, and women’s leadership
IWG President Marika Kochlamazashvili
In a world increasingly shaped by uncertainty and division, the power of cultural dialogue, friendship, and women-led community engagement remains a compelling force for unity. Few embody this spirit more gracefully than Mrs. Marika Kochlamazashvili, President of the International Women’s Group (IWG) Kuwait and spouse of the Ambassador of Georgia to Kuwait, whose tenure has been marked by cultural vibrancy, meaningful connections, and a deep appreciation for Kuwait’s warmth and hospitality.
The Times Kuwait Report
In an exclusive conversation with The Times Kuwait, Marika reflects on her journey in Kuwait, her leadership of one of the country’s most dynamic international women’s organizations, her passion for cultural diplomacy, and her hopes for peace in the region.
Having lived in Kuwait for nearly two years, Marika describes the experience as profoundly enriching both personally and professionally.
“We fell in love with Kuwait almost immediately,” she says, speaking warmly of the country’s generosity and openness. “The people here are genuinely kind, gracious, and welcoming. We have formed heartfelt friendships with many Kuwaiti families, and that has made our stay deeply meaningful.”
Her own background reflects an impressive blend of academia, healthcare, and public service. Originally trained in dentistry at Tbilisi State Medical University, she later pursued a degree in law, followed by a Master’s in Public Health. Her academic work extended into university lecturing in biostatistics and epidemiology, and she is currently pursuing a PhD focused on healthcare safety protocols. Yet despite such a strong academic foundation, Marika says one of the most transformative chapters of her life began when she stepped into the world of diplomacy as an ambassador’s spouse.
“It has been both challenging and exciting,” she says. “Meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds in Kuwait has been an incredibly enriching experience.”
Leading with purpose
Marika’s appointment as President of the International Women’s Group was not a sudden leap, but a natural progression of involvement and commitment. Before assuming the role, she had already spent a year as an honorary member, participating in IWG activities and observing firsthand the organization’s unique ability to unite women from across nationalities and cultures. “What immediately impressed me about IWG was its atmosphere,” she explains. “It was warm, welcoming, and filled with inspiring women — from the diplomatic community as well as prominent Kuwaiti personalities.”
She viewed the presidency not merely as a ceremonial role, but as an opportunity to deepen intercultural friendship, promote women’s empowerment, and showcase Georgian culture to an international audience.
One of the defining moments that reinforced her commitment was a collaborative event organized by the Embassy of Georgia and IWG, themed Women’s Role in the History of Georgia and their Contribution as Ambassadors for Peace. Featuring traditional dance performances and cultural demonstrations, the event proved both successful and inspiring.
“That experience motivated me to do even more,” she recalls.
A year of cultural celebration
Under Marika’s leadership, the IWG continued its longstanding mission of promoting friendship, unity, and mutual understanding among women, while embracing fresh and creative programming suited to a modern international audience.
The result was a rich calendar of immersive cultural experiences.
Among the highlights were a lively Mexican Fiesta Meet & Greet, a Greek Cultural Day centered on wellness and human connection, the sensory-rich Art & Aroma cultural experience, a moving Japan–Palestine Cultural Day, the elegant Tunisian Mosaic: Night of Lights, and a celebration of Turkish Coffee Day honoring UNESCO-recognized heritage.
Yet beyond the spectacle and celebration, Marika emphasizes that these events served a deeper purpose.
“Every gathering created space for women to connect meaningfully, to learn about each other’s cultures, and to form genuine friendships.” Special significance was attached to events celebrating Kuwait itself, particularly a National Day program themed Women of Kuwait: Tradition and Inspiration, organized in collaboration with H.E. Sheikha Dr. Alanoud Al-Sabah. Additional experiences included visits to cultural landmarks, museums, environmental initiatives, and heritage spaces each reinforcing IWG’s role as a bridge between communities.
Measuring success through human connection
For Marika, success cannot be measured solely by attendance numbers or media visibility though both have grown considerably.
Instead, the true impact lies in the friendships formed, the inclusion fostered, and the sense of belonging created for women living far from their home countries.
“One of the most heartening aspects of my journey has been the companionship of extraordinary Kuwaiti women,” she says.
She also expressed deep appreciation for the IWG’s leadership structure, acknowledging the support of Honorary President H.E. Sheikha Hanouf Bader Al Mohammed Al Sabah, honorary advisor Vera Al-Mutawa, the IWG board, vice presidents, and diplomatic spouses who contributed to the organization’s success.
A message for peace
Like many international organizations, the IWG’s activities were affected by regional tensions, with several planned events canceled due to the prevailing situation. That reality gave Marika’s reflections on peace a particularly personal dimension.
As a mother of two young boys, her message is heartfelt and unequivocal.
“There is no greater good than peace,” she says. She expressed admiration for Kuwait’s resilience and calm leadership during challenging times, praising the country’s commitment to stability and peaceful coexistence. She also reaffirmed Georgia’s support for peaceful efforts across the region and its solidarity with Kuwait.
Celebrating Georgia’s legacy
As Georgia marks its National Day on May 26, Marika takes evident pride in sharing her country’s remarkable story. She notes that Georgia celebrates both the anniversary of the declaration of its first democratic republic and the restoration of independence, milestones that reflect centuries of perseverance, identity, and national resilience.
For Marika, Georgia is not only a nation of rich history but also one of extraordinary hospitality, natural beauty, and cultural depth qualities increasingly recognized by Kuwaiti travelers.
Georgia: A growing favorite for Kuwaiti travelers
Georgia’s popularity among Kuwaiti visitors continues to rise, and Marika believes the reasons are easy to understand.
From majestic mountain landscapes and lush greenery to waterfalls, heritage sites, architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, Georgia offers a uniquely diverse travel experience within just a short flight from Kuwait.
“Guests are considered a gift from God in Georgian culture,” she says, describing the country’s hospitality as central to its appeal.
She welcomed the resumption of air connectivity and highlighted the ease of travel, noting visa-free access for Kuwaiti nationals and convenient access for residents.
A lasting aspiration
Asked about her ultimate goal during her time in Kuwait, Marika’s answer reflects both diplomatic purpose and personal sincerity. Her ambition, she says, is to deepen Georgia-Kuwait friendship, expand cultural awareness about Georgia, and encourage stronger people-to-people connections between the two countries. “If I can contribute even in a small way to building those friendships, that would be the greatest achievement of my time here.”
As her tenure with IWG concludes, one message remains unmistakably clear: for Marika Kochlamazashvili, diplomacy is not merely conducted through official channels it is also nurtured through empathy, cultural understanding, and the enduring power of women coming together.
