Meet Georgi – Riverlea’s Quiet Force for Good

If you’ve ever wondered what compassion in action looks like, meet Georgi – a Riverlea resident, family man, and founder of several initiatives changing lives of homeless people across Adelaide.

Georgi and his family joined the Riverlea community just two months ago, and their influence is already being felt. Originally from South India, Georgi has lived in Adelaide for the past nine years, building a life with his wife and two children, aged 14 and 10. When his wife took a job in Riverlea, she immediately fell in love with the area. “It reminded us of Dubai, safe, family-friendly and green. A very vibrant place where families can thrive.” Georgi says.

After witnessing the impacts of homeless on the streets of Adelaide in 2019, Georgi sparked the idea of The Mustard Seed Family Project, a community movement based on the idea that small acts of kindness can grow into something power. “What I witnessed broke my heart and I just knew I had to do something”.

Georgi has since helped raise over $150,000 through community recycling efforts, earning him both a South Australian Volunteer Award and Salisbury’s 2023 Citizen of the Year. “Everyone’s doing it tough,” he says, “sometimes it just takes someone paying attention, a little spark of kindness to make a difference."

What began as collecting bottles and cans to raise funds has now grown into multiple initiatives, including Café Paid4U, providing free meals for those in need; Shelter4U, a shelter currently in development to provide safe, short-term accommodation; and Latte4U which offers free coffee and connection, no questions asked.

He’s passionate about spreading the message in Riverlea too. “Don’t throw away your bottles and cans, bring them to us! Every bit helps.” When asked what keeps him going, Georgi smiles and says, “It’s about people. About empowering others and making them feel seen and safe.” With his wife by his side and a deep belief in the power of community, Georgi is proving that kindness is contagious and the smallest seed can grow into something extraordinary.

If you’d like to get involved with Georgi’s work or learn more, reach out to Michaela at – and don’t forget to save those bottles and cans!