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images/founder-ali.jpegA Journey Rooted in Community
Ali Guliyev was born and raised in Kvemo-Kartli, a culturally diverse region in Georgia. Growing up in an area with limited educational resources and few extracurricular opportunities, Ali quickly realized the barriers faced by children from ethnic minority communities. Witnessing peers with talent and ambition struggle due to lack of support left a deep impression on him. These formative experiences became the foundation of his life mission: to create opportunities that bridge gaps in education, culture, and social development.
The Path to Purpose
Early Experiences
From a young age, Ali observed the stark disparities in opportunities available to children in his community compared to those in urban centers. Schools lacked basic resources, libraries were non-existent, and extracurricular programs were rare. Despite these challenges, he witnessed the immense untapped potential in his peers brilliant minds held back not by ability but by circumstance. This realization planted the seed for what would eventually become CrossCaucasus.
Education & Growth
Ali pursued his own education with determination, understanding firsthand the obstacles minority youth face in accessing quality education. His personal struggles with navigating university applications, seeking scholarships, and adapting to academic environments where his background was not understood fueled his commitment to creating support systems for others facing similar challenges. He recognized that talent and ambition alone were insufficient without access, guidance, and opportunity.
The Birth of CrossCaucasus
Rather than accepting these inequities as unchangeable, Ali took action. He began by organizing small tutoring sessions for local children, which quickly grew into structured educational programs. The positive response and visible impact on students' academic performance and confidence convinced him that systematic, sustained intervention could transform entire communities. CrossCaucasus was born from this conviction that comprehensive, culturally sensitive programs could empower ethnic minority youth to reach their full potential.
Vision & Philosophy
Holistic Development
Ali believes that true empowerment requires addressing multiple dimensions of development academic, social, cultural, physical, and environmental. CrossCaucasus programs reflect this philosophy, offering comprehensive support that nurtures well-rounded individuals prepared for success in diverse contexts.
Community-Centered Approach
Rather than imposing external solutions, Ali emphasizes community ownership and participation. Programs are designed with input from local communities, employ local staff, and cultivate local leadership. This approach ensures sustainability and cultural relevance while building community capacity.
Building Bridges
Central to Ali's vision is the belief that diversity is strength and that cross-cultural understanding is essential for regional peace and prosperity. CrossCaucasus actively creates opportunities for youth from different communities to collaborate, building bridges that transcend borders and historical divisions.
Sustainable Impact
Ali designs programs with long-term sustainability in mind. By training participants to become mentors, establishing community-managed infrastructure, and creating replicable models, CrossCaucasus initiatives continue generating positive impact long after initial implementation.
Recognition & Impact
Years of Dedicated Service
Lives Impacted
Major Programs Established
Countries Connected
Looking Forward
Ali's vision for CrossCaucasus extends beyond current programs. He envisions a network of empowered, educated, culturally aware young leaders across the Caucasus region who serve as change agents in their communities. He continues to develop new initiatives, forge partnerships, and advocate for policies that support minority youth. His ultimate goal is a future where every child, regardless of background, has genuine access to quality education, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive where the potential he saw in his childhood peers is universally realized and celebrated.