It’s May 1996. I am in my final year at the emblematic National Commercial High School in Plovdiv, graduating as an economist-accountant with an intensive English studies program. At the time, I had no idea how valuable this foundation would become. But years later, I realized how much the professional profile I acquired there shaped my path.
That same month, I was selected to represent my school at one of Bulgaria’s largest business events – the International Spring Fair in Plovdiv. Thousands of international companies gathered to showcase their products and negotiate B2B partnerships. My role, along with a group of selected students, was to welcome guests, guide them, and provide timely, accurate information. We became the go-to source for visitors and exhibitors alike. By the end of the week – exhausted from finishing school, preparing for university exams, and dealing with the added challenge of my boyfriend doing military service – I received heartfelt thanks from several representatives of the exhibiting companies. They appreciated my efforts, dedication, and kindness. That moment defined everything: I knew I belonged in the tourism and MICE industry. I had found a profession that fulfilled the three key components I still believe are essential: heart (passion), mind (skills), and satisfaction (impact)!
I graduated in the top three of my class in 1996 and applied to Bulgaria’s top two universities offering International Tourism Studies: The University for National and World Economy in Sofia (UNWE), and The Economic University in Varna. As a backup, I also applied to Plovdiv University for the specialty International Economic Relations. In the end, I was accepted to all three universities and chose Sofia, a perfect compromise between my dreams, my family’s wishes, and my academic goals.That same year, in 1997, I got married (yes, to the boyfriend doing military service 😊) and gave birth to my daughter, Gloria. She has been my biggest inspiration ever since. Today, as I write this, she’s building my website sitting right next to me. Thank you, Glory. I love you!
I earned my bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD – all in tourism economics. Along the way, I also worked as an accountant for over six years in a trading company. Although seemingly unrelated, this role built on my high school education and helped me gain a deep understanding of business finance – a fundamental skill in any industry.
While finalizing my PhD, I officially entered the tourism industry as a cost controller at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sofia. This led to roles as a travel agent and incoming tourism manager in well known Bulgarian companies.
Then, in 2009, I was invited to lecture on business and congress tourism at the Southwestern University “Neofit Rilski,” and later at Sofia University ”St. Kliment Ohridski,” working with brilliant students until 2012.
That year, I transitioned back into the corporate world, taking the lead of the Bulgarian office of AIM Group International – one of the market leaders in congresses, corporate events, and incentive trips. This role provided me with hands-on experience organizing international congresses and corporate events.
In 2015, another life-changing moment occurred: the birth of my son, Daniel, who kindly reminds me daily to cherish life’s small joys. I love you, Dani!
My children, born a generation apart, are my greatest teachers!
In 2017, I was invited by another international company, Kenes Group, a global pioneer in medical meetings for over 60 years now, to launch their Bulgarian office and develop a line of initiated and company-owned events. Over the next eight years, I created and led the growth of more than 10 original event brands, helping establish the Sofia office as the group’s largest.
Now, in 2025, I am taking the next step: starting my own business. With everything I’ve learned, built, and believed in, this feels like the most natural evolution – offering consulting, education, and project management services in the MICE sector.
It’s a bold path, but I walk it with confidence, knowing I can now support more people, more ideas, and have greater impact.
