Ani (Annie) Vashakmadze is a tech diplomat with over five years of experience in fundraising and sectorial development within Georgia’s innovation ecosystem. Currently serving as the head of the department for international relations at Georgia's Innovation and Technology Agency (GITA), she brings years of expertise in economics and commercial diplomacy.
In parallel with her professional work, Annie is pursuing doctoral studies at the Graduate School of Science and Technology at Kyoto Institute of Technology, specializing in design. Her academic focus complements her dedication to inclusive innovation and international cooperation. Annie is also an associate professor at the Business and Technology University of Georgia, where she teaches innovation management and sustainability.