Imeda's Clothing Store

Imeda left Georgia in 2007 to apply for asylum in Ireland. Her children and grandchildren remained in her hometown. In Ireland, Imeda lived in an accommodation centre while her application was being considered. After two years, she wanted to return to Georgia because she missed her daughters.

Imeda had heard about IOM and the VARRP but she wasn’t sure if the information was correct. “Other Georgian people were talking about such kind of assistance. I didn’t believe them until my relative said to me that it was a reality.” After that, she made an appointment to discuss her return options with IOM staff. She learned that she would be able to apply for reintegration assistance to help her start a business in Georgia. The grant helped her decide that return was the best option for her. She said, “It is much better to return with the reintegration package.”

After she returned, Imeda received help from her children until she decided on her business plan. She submitted an application to the IOM office in Tbilisi to begin a clothing and footwear stall, and received the necessary materials one month later. Imeda decided to open a clothing stall because, “This was the best option for myself as I had only this kind of work experience.”

After six months, Imeda reported, “Profit from my business is covering utility costs and everyday needs for myself. I can’t say that this profit can support my whole family, but it is very helpful.” Imeda is happy to have returned and does not want to immigrate again. Her plans for the future are, “To stay with this business and expand gradually.”

When asked if she had any advice for other migrants in Ireland, Imeda said, “I would advise everyone to use IOM AVR programme to come back with more dignity and more chances of settling back.”