TBC Celebrates Le Méridien Batumi — Business Awards Winner for Advancing Gender Equality

HORECA — hotels, restaurants, and cafés — is one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide. According to the World Tourism Organization, more than 55% of people employed in this industry are women. Yet most of them continue to hold low- or mid-level positions, while managerial roles are still largely occupied by men.

Le Méridien Batumi, operating under the Marriott brand, stands out as an inspiring exception: 80% of its leadership positions are held by women. As part of a global initiative, the hotel has also created a Women Leaders’ Team with around 40 members, who, through their activities over the past year, have helped many women gain confidence in their own potential.

Visitors arriving at Le Méridien in October will also notice a pink ribbon on the smiling staff’s uniforms. For women employed at the hotel, free annual breast cancer screenings are an established component of the company’s social policy — a tradition already six years strong.

Because of this comprehensive and thoughtful approach, Le Méridien Batumi became the TBC Business Awards winner in the category of Promoting Gender Equality.

“When I started filling out the application, I honestly didn’t expect us to win. But as I went deeper into the questions, I realized I had a strong answer for each one. That clearly means we are doing things right. We see this as a national award — and it’s a huge motivation to keep improving,” says the hotel’s HR Director, Natia Stambolishvili.

Emotional intelligence, service orientation, and attention to detail are the qualities that distinguish women in this sector. Natia emphasizes that the hotel’s approach toward all employees is equal — regardless of gender, age, or beliefs.

“In HORECA, everything is built on love. If you don’t love this work, you won’t last long. You need motivation — a driving force.”

She adds that the hotel’s success is not the achievement of management alone.

“If you stop anyone employed here — a dishwasher or the general manager — they will both tell you the same thing: every person here does essential work, and each role is critical to the hotel’s operations. And that’s absolutely true. If you remove even one, the system won’t function,” Natia explains.

The example of Le Méridien Batumi shows that equality becomes reality only when it becomes part of everyday practice — not just a written policy, but a lived value.

TBC Student Card: Diverse Offers You Don’t Want to Miss

Don’t miss the Student Card offers across a wide range of categories.

One of TBC’s main priorities is supporting the younger generation and contributing to their development. The Student Card is an important part of this mission, offering diverse benefits that simplify everyday life for students and their parents.
Books, stationery, food, entertainment—everything school students need is now included in the latest Student Card offers.

• Food

Until December 31, Student Card holders receive 20% instant cashback when paying at TBC POS terminals in Wendy’s, Subway, and Dunkin’ physical locations (up to 30 GEL per month in total across all three brands).
Click the link to view detailed terms.

• Entertainment

Paying with the Student Card also gives you 20% cashback daily (up to 30 GEL per month across all three platforms) at Cavea and Amirani cinemas, as well as when purchasing tickets on Cavea.ge or Kinoafisha.ge.
To use the offer, payment must be made via a TBC POS terminal or a TBC payment channel. The offer does not apply to Apple Pay/Google Pay transactions.
Click the link to view detailed terms.

• Stationery

Get 20% cashback daily (up to 30 GEL per month in total across four brands) at the physical stores of Biblusi, Sulakauri Publishing, Miniso, and Orgservice, when paying with the Student Card at a TBC POS terminal.
Click the link to view detailed terms.

Parents can obtain a Student Card for their child online at tbc.ge or at any TBC branch.
TBC Mobile Banking is now available for students as well—after getting the card, you can explore offers from your favorite places directly in the app.

A New Generation on the AI Path: 150 Students Join the TBC- and GAIA-Supported Olympiad Program

Following the successful launch of the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad, and organized by the Georgian Artificial Intelligence Association (GAIA) with the support of TBC, the second cohort of the AI Olympiad Course has begun—bringing 150 students one step closer to the future through hands-on learning in AI technologies.

Within the AI Olympiad Course, students from grades 9 to 12 will study artificial intelligence entirely free of charge, online, progressing from beginner level to a professional standard. The program aims to form Georgia’s national AI team and nurture a new generation of AI professionals. At the end of the course, a national Olympiad will be held to select the national team that will represent Georgia at the 2026 International Olympiad on Artificial Intelligence (IOAI).

Interest in the project has grown significantly, evident from the doubled number of applicants. Nearly 500 students passed the initial selection stage this year. Due to high motivation and the strong performance of applicants, the scale of the course was expanded—resulting in 150 high-school students being admitted instead of the originally planned 50.

One of this year’s most notable achievements is the increased participation of girls: 33% of participants are female, while last year the program had no female students at all. Participation from the regions has also risen substantially—20% of students come from various regions of Georgia (compared to just 7% last year), highlighting improved equal access to education and the successful joint efforts of TBC and GAIA.

It is worth recalling that in August 2025, Georgia presented its national AI team for the first time at the International Olympiad on Artificial Intelligence in Beijing. The Georgian Olympians—graduates of GAIA’s preparatory program—won a bronze medal and an honorary certificate in their debut year.

The main supporter of the course is TBC.

At TBC, education means opportunity—if you believe in it. Guided by this belief, TBC stands alongside the new generation. TBC is committed to ensuring that education becomes accessible to everyone, giving young people the chance to shape their own future. The AI Olympiad Course is a clear example of this mission—an opportunity that brings together innovation, quality education, and personal development, empowering the next generation to create their own story through learning.

TBC Launches Registration for November Business Education Trainings

As part of TBC’s Business Education Program, registration has opened for November trainings.

Supported by TBC Business, five thematic trainings will be held in November. Business representatives will have the opportunity to receive comprehensive insights on key topics from industry experts and apply the acquired knowledge to support the growth and success of their own companies.

November Training Schedule:

• The first training will be held online on November 11 and 13, focusing on e-commerce. The session will be led by e-commerce specialist Kato Ramishvili.
• The second training, also online, will take place on November 12 and 26 and will cover tax-related topics. Trainer Davit Papiashvili will discuss the main principles behind tax obligations in Georgia and review practical calculation examples.
• The third training will address common financial mistakes and will be held online on November 18, led by business consultant Shalva Akhrakhadze.
• Another November session will focus on export management. This training will be held in person in Kutaisi, on November 26, and will be delivered by Giorgi Gudabadze, Associate Partner at Savvy.
• The fifth training will explore ESG topics and will be conducted online on November 25 and 28 by the international company Develor. The session will cover key issues such as green financing, the advantages of green initiatives, and related challenges.

TBC business clients can join the Business Education Program by registering in advance via the following link: Business Education, where detailed information about each course is also available. Participation in all trainings is free of charge.

Success is on the way—just believe in it!

TBC and BTU Launch Georgia’s National Tech Olympiad Hub

With the support of TBC and on the initiative of the Business and Technology University (BTU), the Georgia Tech Olympiads Hub has been established to empower the new generation and strengthen the country’s tech ecosystem.

The Hub aims to identify and support motivated students across Georgia, engage them in informatics and technology Olympiads, enhance Georgia’s representation on the international stage, and develop technological skills among young people.

The Georgia Tech Olympiads Hub will coordinate the participation and preparation of national teams for the following international Olympiads:

• European Junior Olympiad in Informatics (EJOI)
• European Girls’ Olympiad in Informatics (EGOI)
• International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (IOAI)
• Georgian Students’ Olympiad in Informatics (OLYINFO)

Additionally, for the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI), the Hub will organize training camps and oversee all necessary processes leading up to the national team’s participation.

Within the Hub, BTU will coordinate the training of students and young people, the selection of national teams, and their participation in major international Olympiads. The project will support the development of talented youth in informatics and artificial intelligence, provide access to international experience, strengthen Georgia’s innovation ecosystem, and showcase the potential of the country’s technological education on a global scale.

It is noteworthy that Georgia has been participating in various Olympiads since 2000 and has already achieved significant international success — earning 7 gold, 13 silver, and 43 bronze medals, as well as 2 honorable mentions at the World Olympiad; 2 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze medals at the European Girls’ Olympiad; and 2 gold, 4 silver, 20 bronze medals, along with the title of Absolute European Champion, at the European Junior Olympiad.

The main supporter of the project is TBC. Education is the force that shapes the future, which is why supporting initiatives that foster technological education among the new generation and strengthen the country’s innovative potential is especially important for TBC.

Project partners include UN Women, the Georgian Association of Artificial Intelligence, the ICT Association, Lineate, EPAM, and the development company Blox.

Simplify Your Student Life with the New TBC Card

Student years are a time of important discoveries, unforgettable adventures, and new friendships. TBC stands beside the new generation on this journey, making their busy routines easier with offers tailored to their needs.

Students aged 18 to 23 who have the new TBC Card can save money at places they visit most often.

Until the end of December, when paying with the new TBC Card at selected university cafeterias (for cardholders aged 18–23), you’ll receive 20% cashback (up to 20 GEL per month).

You’ll also find a TBC offer at Luca Polare, where until December 28, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, you’ll instantly receive 15% back (up to 20 GEL per month).

These offers apply only at physical locations when paying through a TBC POS terminal.

Get your new TBC Card today and enjoy a wide range of student-focused benefits. The card is completely free, and you can get it in just one minute via Mobile Bank — no branch visit required.

TBC and Niko Nergadze Launch “There’s One Nuance” – A New YouTube Podcast Series

“There’s One Nuance” – the joint YouTube podcast by Niko Nergadze and TBC – has officially launched.

“The key is to believe” — believe that the search for knowledge never ends, believe that asking questions and observing nuances leads to better answers. That is exactly why TBC, within its educational program, has partnered with Niko Nergadze to launch the YouTube podcast series “There’s One Nuance.”

The concept of the podcast stems from the author’s personal curiosity — a desire to look beyond quick answers and explore the questions and context that lie behind them. This approach is especially important today, when “Did you know that…”–style content on social media can easily mislead audiences.

The video series aims to address topics that are often oversimplified in public discussions, even though they require deep analysis, context, and a nuanced perspective.

The project is built on the idea that truth is rarely black and white. The creators are not interested in fast conclusions. Instead, they want to show what modern science says, how researchers arrive at their findings, what remains unanswered, and which nuances matter in each topic.

“We’re not interested in ‘quick answers.’ Truth is rarely black and white; there’s always nuance, always context — and that’s exactly what makes topics interesting. Our goal is not to tell anyone what to think. We want to show: here’s what science says, here’s how researchers reached their conclusions, here are the questions that still remain unanswered, and here is the nuance behind it all,”
— Niko Nergadze, journalist and author of the video series.

The first episode of the YouTube podcast focuses on violence and video games — exploring the role genetics and upbringing play in behavior, how research results are formed, what influences scientists themselves, and why even a 10-year-old study may already be outdated today.

New episodes of “There’s One Nuance” will be released every two weeks, with Niko Nergadze offering in-depth discussions on various scientific and social topics.

For TBC, supporting educational platforms that strengthen public interest, critical thinking, and a culture of research is a key priority.

TBC Supports Regional Conference on Trusted Banking and Compliance

With the support of TBC, a regional conference on trusted banking took place.

On November 6–7, Tbilisi hosted a two-day regional conference, “Trusted Banking: Ensuring Business Sustainability Through Compliance.” The event was organized by the Austrian banking group Raiffeisen Bank International and the International Chamber of Commerce. Alongside TBC, the Asian Development Bank also supported the conference.

The event focused on international regulations and compliance practices. Throughout the conference, representatives of businesses and financial institutions received insights into approaches that help uphold compliance standards, reduce risks, and ensure secure and transparent international trade.

Participants included representatives from various sectors across the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Europe, among them major German and Austrian banks such as Commerzbank, Raiffeisen Bank International, Oddo BHF, and LBBW. The event was also attended by representatives of leading international financial institutions, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the International Finance Corporation, and the Asian Development Bank. The conference brought together regulators as well as major importers and exporters from across the region.

The program featured multiple formats, including expert presentations and panel discussions.

“TBC, as a leading financial institution in Georgia, strictly adheres to all international regulations — this is our top priority. It is equally important for us that our partner companies have access to comprehensive information on global regulatory and compliance standards. That is why we support initiatives like this, which contribute to building a reliable and transparent business environment. The conference provides the private sector with the latest insights from international institutions and regulators, strengthening their operations in global markets,” said Tamar Khizanashvili, Director of Trade Finance and Factoring at TBC.

“At Raiffeisen Bank International, we believe that trust and compliance with international regulations form the foundation of long-term and stable relationships in the banking sector. We are pleased that this regional conference was held in Georgia — a progressive country connecting Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The region has great development potential, and we look forward to expanding our cooperation even further,” said Christian Noll, Head of Institutional Clients, Corporate & Investment Banking at Raiffeisen Bank International.

Borjgalosnebi Kick Off the November Test Series – Together We Win with TBC

Borjgalosnebi, Georgia’s national rugby team, are gearing up for the crucial November test matches. Richard Cockerill’s selected squad first gathered in Tbilisi and then continued preparations in Batumi.

The head coach has named 25 players in the extended lineup:

Forwards:
Nikoloz Khatiashvili, Davit Abdushelishvili, Kakha Darbaidze, Irakli Kvatadze, Shalva Mamukashvili, Mikheil Babunashvili, Demur Efremidze, Sandro Mamamtavrishvili, Giorgi Sinauridze (all – Black Lion), Giorgi Tetrashvili (Perpignan), Irakli Aptsiauri, Beka Saginadze (Lyon), Luka Japaridze (Montpellier), Beka Gigashvili (Toulon), Vano Karkadze, Temur Tzulukidze (Oyonnax), Lado Chachanidze (Mont-de-Marsan), Beka Gorgadze (Pau), Luka Ivanishvili (Bristol), Ilia Spanderashvili (Valence).

Backs:
Vasil Lobzhanidze, Luka Matkava (Oyonnax), Gela Aprasizde (Perpignan), Akaki Tabutsadze, Tengiz Peranidze, Deme Taflazde, Tornike Kakhoidze, Zaur Lutidze, Shalva Aptsiauri, Luka Tsirekidze, Aleksandre Todua (all – Black Lion), Tedo Abzhandadze (Aurillac), Giorgi Kveseladze (Grenoble), Giorgi Shvelidze (Brive), Davit Niniashvili (La Rochelle).

On 8 November, Borjgalosnebi will host the United States at Batumi’s Adjarabet Arena.
On 15 November, on the same pitch, they will face Canada.
The final match of the Autumn Tests will take place on 22 November at Tbilisi’s Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, where Georgia will meet Japan.

These tests carry immense importance, as the results will determine the seeding pots ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw.

Seeing the new generation of players, seasoned leaders, and rising talents united as one team gives us confidence for progress – and for victory.

#TogetherWeWin, with TBC!