Nino’s Journey with PFP

National Democratic Institute, Program Officer 

In the Spring of 2017, Nino Khitarishvii was selected as a participant in the Professional Fellowship Program.

Nino began her fellowship at the prestigious International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) headquarters, delving into the intricate sphere of New Voting Technologies. Through her dedicated research and determination, Nino conducted an interview with key figures, including the IFES regional directors and other pertinent staff members. Her efforts culminated in a captivating presentation of her research findings, a pivotal moment when the landscape of New Voting Technologies (NVT) in Georgia was still nascent. Recognizing the importance of the topic, Nino undertook this endeavor to introduce best practices not only within her organization but also to her community. Her work even took her to meet members of the election commission in Fairfax County, deepening her understanding of the American electoral process.

During her time in Washington DC, Nino collaborated closely with her supervisor on a project proposal, which was named as one of the successful candidates, securing the funding it deserved. The support extended to Nino also allowed her to invite her IFES supervisor to Georgia, where they conducted meetings in different cities, exploring the application of voting technologies to the Georgian context.

Nino's memories of her fellowship extend beyond her professional achievements. She fondly recalls her time spent with her host family, who graciously opened their hearts and homes, introducing her to captivating places and displaying unmatched hospitality and kindness.

Nino, who serves as a dedicated professional in civil society organizations and is deeply engaged in election issues, attests that her experiences and knowledge acquired during the fellowship have played an invaluable role in shaping her professional journey.

“Beyond the invaluable professional experiences gained during my fellowship, it was the profoundly impactful connections with people that left an indelible mark. My host family, with their boundless kindness and support, left a lasting impression, as did the incredible young minds I had the privilege to meet, hailing from diverse corners of the globe. We came together, shared our experiences, and created lasting bonds, adding a deeper dimension to the journey of a lifetime.”