Eto Chachibaia
COO, MFI MBC
Georgia
Eastern Europe
Embracing the superhero within: Becoming an SDG Pioneer is like becoming a sustainability superhero, fighting to make our world greener and fairer. What's your special power for this mission?
In this journey towards becoming an SDG Pioneer, I've discovered that my special power is the ability to make changes and a great desire to contribute to a world where the SDGs are not just aspirational targets but lived realities. Despite the fact my power isn't as magnificent as flying and my strength isn't superhuman, it is equally powerful in bringing about positive change.
Origin story: Please briefly describe your journey towards becoming an SDG Pioneer.
The scope of my education and experience encompasses two sectors - civil and financial. Both have significantly influenced my attitudes and responsibilities towards people and the environment. As one of the first employees, I have developed and managed the company for more than a decade, and the introduction of Sustainable Development Goals has become an absolutely necessary strategic initiative. I am firmly convinced that successful business cannot be conducted without responsibility in today's world.
Turning passion into purpose: Your SDG Pioneer recognition highlights your incredible work. Please explain the work for which you are being recognized as an SDG Pioneer and how your interest in this field developed.
The recognition as an SDG Pioneer came as a result of significant efforts by myself and my colleagues. In particular, my company demonstrated significant progress towards specific SDGS under my leadership. Initiatives included financial literacy programs, women’s empowerment, gender equality, financial and non-financial support for social enterprises, employee volunteerism through pro bono work, waste management, energy efficiency and cross-sector partnership amongst other initiatives.
Every epic tale has its share of challenges: Please share some challenges and battles you've encountered while pursuing your SDG ambitions.
The greatest challenge and obstacle in recent years has been the COVID-19 pandemic, which has left us facing a completely new reality. It was extremely difficult to proceed with business operations, establish new security rules and manage employees and customers in a changing environment. Despite all of these obstacles, we retained most of our employees, offered significant benefits to our customers and supported vulnerable social groups who were particularly affected by the pandemic.
Accomplishments: As part of your SDG journey, what stands out as the most rewarding? Please describe a moment that made you feel like you were unlocking a new level of impact.
Contributing to women's empowerment and gender equality is one of the most rewarding aspects of my life. As a woman and member of management, I am an unwavering supporter of women. I don’t think empowerment is just a buzzword. When empowering a woman, we empower a family and a community. I can proudly share that 61 per cent of the total employees are women at MFI MBC. Also, women hold 50 per cent of management and 60 per of top management positions.
Next chapters: What’s next in your career and journey? Please give us a sneak peek!
The journey ahead is not without its challenges, but I am committed to face them straight on. From climate change to inequality, each challenge presents an opportunity to innovate, adapt and develop new solutions. In the next chapters of my career, I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that each action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger pattern of progress.
