Understanding Motivation Across Generations - Andro Dgebuadze’s session for HR Professionals

On February 11, the Caucasus Training Center in the UAE (CTC), in collaboration with the Georgian Business Council (GBC), hosted an event titled “Beyond Bonuses, or Alchemy of Motivation - For HR Professionals” at the Georgian cultural center - Ethnographic restaurant “Qartuli” in Dubai.

The session brought together senior HR leaders and consultants from the UAE and international organizations, including Schneider Electric, Al Qaswa, Al Shamsi Holdings, Ebury Partners Dubai and other major companies, for an insightful discussion on the philosophical foundations of motivation in contemporary workplaces.

The discussion focused on how motivation differs among generations, particularly from Millennials to Gen Z, exploring their expectations, workplace values, and approaches to professional development.

Our prominent speaker, Andro Dgebuadze, referenced Joseph Campbell’s concept of the ‘Hero’s Journey’ to illustrate the different phases every individual experiences in life. Like the Hero’s Journey, each person experiences stages of growth, challenge, transformation, and self-discovery, influencing both their personal and professional development.

The discussion also emphasized a shift from external motivation, such as bonuses, titles, and formal recognition, to inner motivation and self-understanding. Drawing on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, it emphasized that the highest level of fulfillment is reached through Self-development, rather than through External rewards.

The main message for attendees was clear: the essential role of HR professionals is to recognize each employee’s stage of growth and evolving goals, and to respond thoughtfully to those needs. Through this approach, they can create a truly effective workspace environment that fosters meaningful engagement and supports long-term motivation.

CTC & GBC will continue creating spaces where culture, philosophy, and business leadership meet, inspiring meaningful dialogue among professionals.