"Tomorrow Begins Today" is a volunteer project initiated by Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) students and implemented within the framework of StudFest 2025. The project aims to provide pregnant women and new mothers with reliable and practical information on the importance of prenatal screenings and safe pregnancy, the lactation process and its significance, as well as proper care for newborns. The project is driven by the belief that health begins in the womb, and it seeks to raise awareness in this vital area.

The initiative by TMA students is inspired by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2025 theme – "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures" – which focuses on promoting maternal and newborn health.

As part of the project, students Saba Zakradze, Anuki Gabrichidze, Elene Sajaia, Sopho Shamugia, and Tata Tatalashvili conducted activities at the Volunteer Parents’ School. The core event, evaluated by a specially invited jury, was preceded by a series of informative sessions and workshops.

Participants of the Parents’ School received guidance on newborn first aid, how to recognize emergencies, what is considered normal, and when to seek immediate medical attention. Additionally, Dr. Larisa Melia, an obstetrician-gynecologist, associate professor at Ghudushauri Clinic, and a guest lecturer at the Georgian Academy of Medical Sciences, gave a talk about the developmental phases during pregnancy. She discussed key topics such as fetal development week by week, changes in the mother’s body, and essential medical tests.

The final session focused on educating expectant mothers about newborn care starting from birth. Dr. Tamar Ghvaladze, a neonatologist from Ghudushauri Clinic, led the session in an interactive format, allowing pregnant women to ask questions and engage directly with the speaker. At the end of the session, participants received informational booklets, student-designed gifts, pregnancy diaries, and small toys as souvenirs.

A special jury attended the final event. One of the jury members, Tinatin Kikabidze, a representative of the Georgian Red Cross Society, praised the students’ project and the activities conducted. She also spoke about the importance of volunteerism:

“Volunteering is especially meaningful and valuable for medical students and future doctors, as it fosters both professional and personal growth. Volunteer activism is also vital to the Red Cross and is one of its core values. Volunteers are the driving force behind the organization’s humanitarian mission, making a significant impact on society. The topic that the students addressed is undoubtedly one of the most pressing challenges of our time,”
– Tinatin Kikabidze, Fundraising Coordinator, Georgian Red Cross Society.

To further promote the project, TMA students recorded an interview with Abkhazian Television, where they discussed the importance and relevance of the initiative.

The results of the StudFest 2025- volunteer competition will be announced in September.