In an era when television was still considered an “impenetrable fortress,” Ninutsa Orjonikidze found the key to its gates, emerging as a definitive voice on screen. Through tireless dedication and a relentless pursuit of self-refinement, she swiftly carved out a permanent space for herself within the media landscape.
As time unfolded, the industry shifted—projects evolved, airwaves transformed, and the public’s relationship with information was reimagined. Yet, Ninutsa, always keeping her finger on the pulse of the moment, navigated these changes with effortless grace. She masterfully bridged the gap between the academic poise required for the screen and the vibrant, uninhibited freedom of social media. The transition from television to vlogging was more than a change of platform; it was the birth of a new philosophy. Ninutsa joins us to discuss the narrative of her digital diaries and the delicate line between her true self and the social media lens. How did the concept of her vlog come to life, and what is its ultimate purpose? In a world of perpetual filming, is there still room for raw, personal emotion? Discover Ninutsa Orjonikidze—beyond the frame…
Just a few years ago—back when television still reigned as the primary source of information—broadcast networks were widely regarded as closed circles, almost impenetrable worlds of their own. Gaining access was no easy feat. How did you manage to step into the frame? Take us back to the very beginning—what do you remember about your first steps into the world of television?
It was 2016 when, with the help of a personal connection, I found my way into the newsroom of TV Pirveli as an intern. For four months, I was completely consumed by the craft; however, at the time, my child was still a toddler. Between the erratic schedule and the weight of my responsibilities at home, balancing motherhood with professional ambition became a profound challenge. Later, as my child grew and I regained my sense of autonomy, I felt the pull to return. During this pivotal period, I found immense strength in the support of Manana Itonishvili, my speech coach. In 2019, when the Public Broadcaster was scouting for fresh faces for their new show, Nashuadghevs (In the Afternoon), she was the one who recommended me. The casting process was grueling, but I persevered until I was officially confirmed as a host. I carry an immense sense of gratitude for the team that looked beyond my lack of experience, recognized my raw potential, and gave me the stage to take those first, life-changing steps.
For a journalist, every project is a milestone of evolution and craft… yet, there is usually that one “favorite.” Which production do you hold the deepest emotional connection to, and why?
My heart remains most tethered to the First Channel and my very first live broadcast… it represents the sheer gravity of responsibility I felt for the first time. I was thirty when I stepped before the cameras, and I can still recall the sensation—the frantic pulse, the nerves that caught in my throat. In a live broadcast, there is no safety net; there is no chance to retract a mistake. You are either ready, or you are not. That is where true professional tempering begins. It was a season of firsts: the first taste of success, the first rush of a compliment, the realization that I could do this… and, of course, the first stumbles. Back then, those errors felt like the end of the world, but today I recognize them as the very catalysts for my growth. It was a period that fortified me both professionally and personally. Perhaps that’s why it remains so vivid—as the definitive beginning that shaped my entire future.
Being a television host means your words carry weight. How has your approach to public speaking evolved over the years? Do you find yourself filtering your thoughts more carefully now, or have you become more candid and direct?
In the beginning, I didn’t approach it with such depth. I made my share of mistakes, operating under the impression that a word was just… a word. However, time has taught me that anything said—especially from behind a screen—wields immense power. A word can build, but it can also destroy. Today, I am far more intentional; I constantly weigh what I say, when I say it, and the context in which it lives.
You are a source of inspiration for many women. Do you feel a sense of responsibility when you curate a look or champion a particular brand?
I’m actually quite modest about being called a “source of inspiration.” I truly don’t perceive myself in that light. For me, style has never been a calculated mission or an attempt to set an example; it’s something that has trailed me since childhood as a form of play. While other girls were playing with dolls, I was captivated by the art of dressing up—pairing colors, creating silhouettes, and getting lost in the joy of details. I never spared time or energy for it. To me, this process was always its own little microcosm—a sanctuary where I simply found pleasure. Style remains a natural extension of who I am; it’s just my everyday reality.
In your view, what is the unique signature that sets Georgian fashion apart, and how often do you find yourself favoring local labels?
I have a profound love for the work of Georgian designers, and it fills me with immense pride. I never view them in a vacuum or as an isolated niche; to me, they are an integral part of the global fashion dialogue—fully realized, dynamic, and deeply engaged. I believe Georgian fashion lacks nothing when compared to the international stage. It fits seamlessly into the modern context—it is intellectually curious, relevant, synchronized with the times, and often daringly bold.
Fashion today moves at a breakneck pace—it’s an ever-shifting landscape. How do you ensure your identity isn’t lost in the chaos? How do you filter what is merely “trendy” from what is authentically “you”—the organic pieces of your individual style?
My approach to dressing is intuitive—I lead with my form. Over the years, I’ve mastered the language of my own body: understanding what to accentuate, how to find equilibrium, and which silhouettes truly resonate with me. I’ve come to realize that not every trend is meant for everyone, nor should it be. The secret lies in knowing your proportions and leaning into what highlights your individuality. While I occasionally embrace minimalism, I find that excessive uniformity can sometimes strip away character, leaving the look feeling somewhat hollow. As for trends in general? They move at a lightning pace—fleeting moments in a much larger story. I feel they change incredibly fast. They’ve become so mass-produced that it’s a little disheartening. I’m not entirely sure if it is I who has matured or if fashion itself has shifted, but something feels fundamentally different now—that old sense of magic has, perhaps, lost a bit of its luster.
How was the concept of your vlog born? What is its core purpose? If you were to summarize it—what is the overarching narrative and the philosophy behind it?
It all began during my time at Rustavi 2. We had traveled to the breathtaking highlands of Tusheti to cover the “Mountain Days” festival. The crew consisted of myself, Mariam Mamageishvili, and Nika Lebanidze. The footage we brought back was so evocative, and the resulting segment so distinct, that we immediately realized we wanted to create more projects of this caliber. Soon after, our circle expanded: Guro, our film editor, joined us, followed by producer Tamar Koberidze, and eventually, Giorgi Komiashvili. And just like that, our six-person ensemble was complete. It started almost by accident—one shoot, one story—but that singular spark led to the creation of our YouTube channel. Truly, great journeys often begin with a simple coincidence.
I want to take this moment to thank my team for their unwavering professionalism and loyalty. I firmly believe that significant results are only achieved when you stand beside people of this caliber. I am genuinely fortunate to create alongside them.
How does the Ninutsa Orjonikidze we see on social media differ from the one in real life?
To be honest, I’ve never given it much thought. Our vlogs are so expansive and the productions so labor-intensive that there’s very little room for performance. This format doesn’t allow for pretense. Since you don’t always possess the perfect mood, peak energy, or boundless spirit, you naturally have to give yourself a “mental push” sometimes… In those moments, a sense of duty and responsibility takes the lead. No matter what kind of day you’re having, you know you must deliver; you must see it through to the end. As for the duality between the screen and reality: I believe the persona the audience sees is largely a result of our team’s collective vision. It is a refined product, a piece of content… but I don’t believe I deviate very far from that woman in my everyday life.
What would you say to those who watch your vlogs and dream of a life like yours?
First and foremost—subscribe to the channel! (laughs). But truly, if I managed to orchestrate this, then anyone can. Travel is an extraordinary thing. Above all, you need great friends—people who crave adventure and won’t back down from a challenge. A team is vital; in those grueling moments, it’s each other’s energy that fuels your strength. It’s also essential to step outside your comfort zone. Of course, safety is always a priority, but fear should never become a barrier.
You travel extensively… When you’re capturing these moments, do you ever feel as though you’re witnessing the world through a lens rather than your own eyes? Are there moments when you intentionally switch off the camera to keep an emotion entirely for yourself?
Georgia is breathtakingly beautiful… and incredibly diverse. I will forever be grateful that I’ve had the chance to witness it all with my own eyes: the mountains, the remote villages, the people. Each journey carries its own unique narrative. I’ve learned that while the camera allows us to share the story, it shouldn’t replace the feeling of being there. There is a profound difference between documenting a moment and actually living it.
For me, filming is far more than a mere technical exercise—it is a way of seeing. Even in the mundane moments of daily life, wherever I may be, I find myself observing my surroundings as if through a viewfinder: the way light falls across a surface, the fluid movement of a person through a room, the singular detail that could anchor an entire frame. I am constantly searching—sometimes for the “perfect” shot, and other times for that raw, imperfect moment that possesses its own unique truth. This habit has taught me to perceive the world through a different lens. Perhaps that is why I am so drawn to travel. Journeying grants you a fresh perspective, a new quality of light, and encounters with new souls. When you love the craft of capturing images, you instinctively begin to register the nuances—those fleeting details that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is a process that never exhausts me, because every new day holds the promise of a brand-new frame.
Interview: Tatuli Gvinianidze
