Locations
A powerful storytelling project by Indigo Magazine in partnership with UNDP and Norway
The Hardest Step: Walking Towards Equality
February 18, 2025
Photo: UNDP/Indigo Magazine
“When I was learning to walk independently, the first step was the hardest, it felt terrifying. But once you take it, fear fades, and you just keep going,” says Liova Luzhanski, his warm smile lighting up his face.
Liova’s life is a story of resilience, courage, and self-discovery. Born with a visual impairment and navigating the complexities of embracing his queer identity, he faces challenges with quiet determination, redefining what independence means on his own terms.
From his early years in coastal Batumi to transferring to the School for the Visually Impaired in Tbilisi, his passion for art and music, an internal struggle for self-acceptance, a public coming out, and a painful break with his family – each step has shaped Liova’s remarkable journey.
“He is my friend. My friend Liova,” says Shorena Shavlakadze.
Shorena and Liova met at a training for people with disabilities. As a mother of a disabled son, Shorena understood the challenges Liova was facing and stood by his side. Their friendship became a source of strength and solace for both.
"We have the power to shape one another as individuals. Too often, we fear the wrong things, avoid the wrong things, and think in the wrong way. I want us to listen – to our children and to one another," Shorena reflects.
Through personal struggles and societal barriers, both Shorena and Liova have become advocates for inclusion and equality.
"Every person carries their own diversity. Some may not express it, but that doesn’t mean they don’t feel it," says Shorena.
And Liova’s words echo hers:
"I hope that one day, diversity will be seen as a natural part of society."
Bridging Voices
Liova and Shorena’s journey is one of the standout stories in Bridging Voices, a campaign by Indigo Magazine in partnership with UNDP and Norway. This compelling media project showcases people reaching across cultural, ethnic, and religious divides and overcoming differences in ability, background, and identity to find common ground.
From Grandma Maguli and her granddaughter Natia in Ajara’s highlands to Iasha and Zura in Javakheti, and Shorena and Liova in Tbilisi – each story weaves into a tapestry of compassion, respect, and inclusion, shaping lives and communities.
Background Information:
With US$3.6 million in funding from Norway, the Leadership, Equality, Advocacy, Democracy (LEAD) project drives institutional, legislative, and societal change in Georgia. Through this initiative, UNDP and Norway partner to protect minority rights, combat discrimination, and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.
Disclaimer:
This story has been produced with support from UNDP Georgia, UNDP Crisis Bureau, and Norway. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of the donor organizations.
"Every person carries their own diversity."Shorena Shavlakadze
