Beyond Borders
MEET THE TEAM
OUR STORY
Our passion for promoting educational accessibility around the world emerged from our personal experiences.
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At 12 years old, we began applying to American high schools, seeking the opportunities, resources, and educational environment that felt out of reach in our home country.
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Between navigating visa interviews and juggling countless school applications, the process was overwhelming.
We had little support, no clear roadmap, and a limited sense of what life in the U.S would look like.
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Moving to the U.S was life-changing, opening up doors that we hadn't even known existed.
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We quickly realized that there was a lack of awareness around the possibility of taking this path in our community, preventing young, motivated Georgian students from unlocking their full potential by pursuing it.
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We felt called to share our story and help others navigate the same path with more support, clarity, and guidance, allowing students to envision what life abroad could truly look like.
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Inspiring students to dream Beyond Borders.
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Gvantsa Togonidze
Founder & President
Maria Togonidze
Founder & Vice President
BY THE NUMBERS
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HOW IT WORKS
Beyond Borders is a student led not-for-profit program that virtually connects motivated Georgian students with American student volunteers, aiding them in their journey to apply for an American education and cultural experience. Middle school and high school students applying to U.S. high schools are eligible to apply to Beyond Borders. This includes those applying independently or through exchange programs such as FLEX.
The Process
1
APPLY
American volunteers and Georgian students each complete a short application form.
The form includes questions about your availability and interests to help us ensure a good match. If accepted, you’ll hear from us within a week.
2
INTRODUCTORY MEETING
Once accepted, you'll receive an email introducing you to your matched American volunteer or Georgian student.
Matches are made based on age, availability, and shared goals for the experience. Volunteers are provided with a short introductory meeting guide to help start the conversation. This first meeting is simply a chance to get to know each other and begin the connection. Like every meeting, this happens on zoom.
3
RECURRING MEETINGS
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Meetings take place once a week and last between 45 minutes to 1 hour.
You’ll receive your meeting time and date at the start of each week. While sessions typically happen on Saturdays or Sundays, the exact time may vary depending on availability and scheduling needs.
Each meeting is student-led and flexible — there’s no set script. Georgian students are encouraged to come with specific questions or topics they want to explore. Volunteers are given a guide with suggested activities and conversation ideas to help support the flow. Each pair meets for 10 sessions, after which both participants are matched with new partners to continue the experience.
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Common Meeting Topics:​
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- Help with applications
- Help with essay writing/idea brainstorming
- Informal conversation
- More information on the American education system
- Boarding school life
- Day to day life in America
