Bedisa's Furniture

After the death of her husband in 2003, Bedisa left her children and grandchildren in Georgia and sought asylum in Ireland. She spent eight years in the asylum process and became frustrated with the system. Bedisa missed her family and her life in Georgia, and wanted to return as she reached an age of retirement. Bedisa began planning her travel back to Georgia, but knew that she would be unable to afford the plane tickets without assistance. Her family could not provide the money, but friends recommended that Bedisa contact IOM and learn more about the VARRP.

Bedisa made an appointment to speak with staff in the Dublin office, and expressed her concerns about buying her plane ticket and supporting herself in Georgia. She learned that IOM would assist her in paying for the travel costs, and that she could apply for a grant to begin a business. Bedisa felt more optimistic about earning money once she knew she would be able to work from home, and would not have to face discrimination in getting hired. She had learned the art of woodworking as a young woman, and decided to start a furniture-making business in Georgia.

Bedisa received materials to open a workshop from her home, and was able to sell a few pieces of furniture after she returned. Unfortunately, her business faced competition from other furniture-makers, and she had to close after a year. Although her business has closed, Bedisa is glad to be back in Georgia. She does not know what the future will bring because at the moment she is, “busy looking after (her) grandchildren.”