Tamara Kalandiya founded the Academy of Georgian Heritage with the goal of giving Georgian-American children growing up in the United States a real connection to their roots, their language, and their identity. Originally from Sokhumi, Abkhazia, Tamara’s life was shaped by displacement and the experience of leaving her home at the age of 11. That journey is at the heart of everything she has built. Founded in 2013 as a small Sunday program for a handful of families, the Academy has grown into a vibrant, multi-generational community—now including the Georgian-American Youth Association (GAYA) and expanding programs that bring adults together as well. For Tamara, the Academy is more than a school. It’s a place where children build identity and confidence, where friendships turn into lifelong bonds, and where families feel a true sense of belonging. Tamara is also a financial executive and CPA with global leadership experience in nonprofit organizations.