Meet Mako: Bridging Cultures and Building a Sustainable Future

From Tbilisi to the World

Mariam Sarjveladze, or Mako, a professional sales representative at AESOLAR, calls Tbilisi, Georgia, her home—a city where ancient history and modernity intertwine. "It’s a place known for its hospitality, but beyond that, it’s the strength and resilience of my people that make me proud. Growing up in a culture so deeply rooted in tradition and identity has shaped my perspective on the world." she shares. "It's a place that grounds me, no matter how far I travel." Nowadays, Mako often needs to travel to different destinations for work, especially in the APAC region, Mako's journey reflects her ability to thrive in diverse environments while staying rooted in her heritage.

A Purpose-Driven Path to Solar

Mako's transition into renewable energy was unexpected but deeply aligned with her values. With a background in psychology and sociology, she sought roles that fostered meaningful connections. "It’s an industry that isn’t just about technology; it’s about people, communities, and shaping a better future for all of us." she explains.

Her passion lies in creating sustainable solutions that empower communities: "What truly drew me in was the tangible impact we can have by providing sustainable solutions. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work we do drives innovation while helping communities transition to cleaner, more reliable energy sources. Every relationship I build in this field reinforces the sense of purpose I was searching for—and motivates me to keep growing, learning, and contributing."

Thriving at AESOLAR

Since joining AESOLAR, Mako has embraced challenges that push her boundaries. Leading initiatives in the APAC region, she's forged partnerships that blend business goals with shared values. "My journey at AESOLAR has been both dynamic and rewarding. From the very beginning, I was given opportunities that challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and grow—not just as a professional, but as a person. I’ve had the chance to represent AESOLAR in different regions, especially in the APAC market, where I’ve built meaningful partnerships and gained valuable insights into diverse markets."

Mako talking to a customer during SolarTech expo 2024 in Indonesia

For Mako, success is measured in relationships as much as results. "(My work) isn’t just about the numbers; it reflected the relationships I built and the trust we established with our partners. It reminds me why I’m here contributing to a sustainable future, while growing alongside a team that’s just as committed and driven. Every new project, partnership, and market I explore with AESOLAR keeps me motivated for what’s ahead."

Global Team, Global Perspective

Working across cultures has transformed Mako's approach to leadership. "Collaborating with colleagues worldwide teaches me to adapt, listen, and find common ground," she says. Whether negotiating in a bustling market or brainstorming with her team, she values the creativity that diversity brings: "It's not just about expanding AESOLAR's reach—it's about growing as a person."

"Since joining AESOLAR, I can truly say that I’ve evolved into a more well-rounded professional, and I’m excited about how this global experience continues to shape the way I work and think."

Travel: A Classroom Without Walls

Mako's role takes her across APAC, where cultural nuances shape her work. "Every country has its rhythm," she reflects. "Adapting isn't just about business—it's about empathy and finding shared goals, even without a common language." These experiences fuel her curiosity and sharpen her ability to connect.

As mentioned earlier, Mako has an educational background in psychology and sociology, so this way of thinking also helps in a subtle way in intercultural scenarios. "It has a big impact on how I interact with people, especially in a diverse industry like ours. Psychology taught me to be an active listener and to pay attention not just to what people say, but how they say it and sometimes, what they don't say at all."

When it comes to this, Mako had this to say: "In some cultures, direct communication is highly valued, while in others, people prefer a more subtle, relationship-driven approach. By being open-minded and adapting my communication style, I've been able to foster trust and cooperation more effectively. These adjustments often lead to creative outcomes—whether it's finding a unique solution to meet both sides' needs or developing a tailored offer that resonates with the customer on a deeper level."

"For me, successful cultural adaptation is less about following a rulebook and more about listening carefully, observing, and being genuinely curious about people. That’s when the real connections happen, and that’s where I find the most rewarding results."

Mako, together with colleagues from AESOLAR, attends a dinner with clients in Vietnam

Fueled by Curiosity

Outside work, Mako's passion for learning drives her. "I find a lot of fulfillments in traveling and meeting people from different backgrounds. Traveling, reading, or simply talking to people—every interaction teaches me something new," she says. This curiosity extends to her professional life: "Growth isn't just a goal; it's a way of living."

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