Meet the Team: Abuzar Aghazada
Program Manager, TCT Azerbaijan
Although he was raised and currently lives in the city of Baku, Abuzar (aka Aboo) has always loved the outdoors, and is completely at home in the remote mountains where he can feel the power of the nature. He used to work as a bicycle technician prior to joining the TCT, and still find time to cycle when he’s not hiking or trying his best not to fall down while snowboarding in winter. Among his many talents, he founded Mountain Shop and Hikeaway, a sports store and trek guiding company, respectively. In fact, guiding was initially how he got involved with the TCT!
When Aboo isn’t in the mountains, you can find him spending quality time with his son or working while enjoying a drink at a coffee shop or the peaceful atmosphere at Mountain Shop. He loves all types of food, and if there’s music, even better. Although as he says, “even beer can’t fix [my] dancing ‘skills’.” 😀
In Aboo’s Words:
Why did you want to join the TCT?
I met Nazrin — the person who brought TCT’s work to Azerbaijan — when she joined the hiking group I was guiding. She introduced me to the TCT and I wanted to get involved because it’s maybe the most exciting opportunity I’ve had so far. And it’s so cool!
Favorite part/section of the TCT:
The one that has not been discovered yet. I’m excited to spend days and weeks scouting the areas for future projects.
Memorable moment:
Walking through a heavy thunderstorm from the field back to camp in Nedzve, Georgia.
Most special part of the TCT:
The fact that it is an international project that brings people from different backgrounds together.
Why should people hike or get involved with the TCT?
By hiking TCT, you get not only breathtaking views of the diverse region, but you also meet really nice and helpful people, support local communities, and take part in developing hiking infrastructure.
