May 15th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
On Friday, May 12th, Ms. Ani Hristova and Mr. Rumen Rusinov arrived at the splendid “Starosel” complex. Our program commenced with a wine tour in the enoteca of “Starosel.” This enoteca is a tribute to the ancient Thracian traditions. The technologists and winemakers from the “Starosel” cellar took us on a journey through the centuries, introducing us to the wine-making traditions of the ancient Thracians, who gifted us the art of making and enjoying wine.
The complex stands as one of the jewels in the crown of Bulgarian spa centers. It offers classical and wine treatments, each providing unparalleled sensory pleasures and health benefits.
On May 13th, the bell, the Bulgarian National Anthem, and the Rotary Anthem echoed in the magnificent amphitheater of the complex. District Governor Mrs. Violina Kostova welcomed the Rotarians and then gave the floor to Mr. Bjarne Eilsøe-Jørgensen, the representative of Rotary International President Mrs. Jennifer Jones. Mr. Jørgensen delivered a wonderful and powerful speech, even making an effort to speak some Bulgarian words. We express our gratitude for your remarkable presence!
We are delighted to announce that the Committee led by Chair Mrs. Hristina Malchevska, a Past President of our Club, and her team, including Ms. Ani Hristova, also a Past President of our Club, Mrs. Nevena Ivanova, President of Rotaract Club Sofia International, and Ms. Veronika Botsova, Rotaract Europe President Elect, delivered a special speech about their work in the Committee and the unique creation of the Danube Alliance. The panel’s theme was “There are no boundaries for Rotary,” and well done, ladies!
Ms. Hristova then took the floor to explain the Rotary Friendship Exchange, which she organized along with the Chair of the RFE Committee in Bulgaria. The room was filled with smiles and energy during her presentation!
We are also pleased to mention that the invitation created for our Gala was praised as an excellent example, well-written and in accordance with all Rotary rules. The credit goes to the organization team and Mr. Alberto Staykov (a Past member of our Club) and Mrs. Mariam Melikyan for their creativity and design.
Another interesting part was the Rotary Exhibition, where Rotarians presented their businesses.
Mrs. Violina Kostova prepared special presents for the Presidents who served this Rotary year, and Mr. Rumen Rusinov received one! Special plaques were also prepared for the District officers, including Mrs. Hristina Malchevska, Ms. Ani Hristova, and Ms. Nevena Ivanova.
The evening continued with a Gala dinner, wonderfully organized, featuring guest singers Mrs. Ralitsa Grudeva and Mr. Ivan Pritargov, who created a great atmosphere with their performances.
In closing, we’d like to quote the words of District Governor 2022-2023, Mrs. Violina Kostova: “Our exciting journey together began a year ago, but it does not end with the conclusion of this Rotary year. I am convinced that TOGETHER, we will continue to rediscover the magic of Rotary, the power of Friendship, and the world of sustainable Partnerships, and we will reinvent ourselves. We have initiated numerous projects and initiatives, with more to come, but the most important achievement is this invaluable TOGETHER, something we must not only preserve but also nurture in the future.”
“You might say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.”
Rotary Club Sofia International extends its gratitude to Mrs. Violina Kostova for a wonderful year and wishes her to maintain that unstoppable energy and creativity.
On May 14th, the General Assembly was held, where it was decided to increase the annual membership fee for members in District 2482 to 95 BGN.
…Read the rest of this entry »
May 14th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
We are delighted to announce that Rotary Club Sofia International has once again extended its support to our friends at the Association “Children with Oncohematologic Diseases.” This Rehabilitation Center is unique, being the 8th of its kind in the world. It comprises seven single-family houses, an administrative hub that houses offices dedicated to working with children and parents, a sports arena, a canteen, a well-equipped kitchen, multiple halls, a swimming pool, and a chapel. More information can be found here and here.
One of Rotary Club Sofia International’s recent contributions was the creation and donation of a “Tiny House” Container, aimed at enhancing sustainability by providing nutritious vegetables for the center. We extend an invitation to all club members to visit the center and see the donated container for themselves.
A few months later, Ms. Hristova and Mr. Dale had the opportunity to visit the center, sample fresh vegetables, and enjoy the wonderful weather, the environment, and Mr. Plamen Belchev’s homemade rakia.
We want to express our gratitude to our dear members for helping make yet another dream a reality. We’d also like to extend our thanks to Mr. Belchev for being a steadfast friend and an outstanding individual.
…Read the rest of this entry »
May 1st, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
In a world filled with challenges, the power of a community coming together for a cause is truly heart-warming. RotaRun Bulgaria was one such inspiring initiative led by the Rotaract Clubs in District 2482, Bulgaria, with the aim of supporting the Bulgarian registry for potential stem cell donors. This annual event served as a testament to the spirit of solidarity and compassion, as individuals from all walks of life converged on a single track to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
On April 30th, Sofia Tech Park witnessed a diverse gathering of people as RotaRun Bulgaria took place. Participants, driven by a shared purpose, ran side by side on a 5km journey to raise awareness and support for stem cell donation. Stem cell transplantation offered hope to patients grappling with hematological diseases, often representing their only chance for a cure.
Sports enthusiasts, healthcare professionals, and philanthropists alike united on the track, embodying an unwavering spirit of solidarity. The event was designed to be inclusive, welcoming runners of all skill levels to run for a common cause. Participants came with family and friends, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere where camaraderie flourished.
The ultimate goal of RotaRun Bulgaria extended beyond the event itself. The Rotaract Clubs aimed to encourage as many individuals as possible to join the Bulgarian registry for potential stem cell donors. Becoming a donor involved providing a buccal sample or a blood sample, a simple yet profound act that could be life-saving for those in need of a transplant.
RotaRun Bulgaria also emphasized the importance of spreading the message of stem cell donation. Even if not every participant could donate, they could become ambassadors of hope, sharing the cause with their circles of influence and inspiring others to join the registry.
RotaRun Bulgaria was a collaborative effort, bringing together various organizations and institutions in a united front. The event was organized in partnership with the University Hospital “Alexandrovska,” the Bulgarian Lymphoma Association, The Bulgarian registry of potential stem cell donors, the Bulgarian Red Cross, Asics, Foodobox, Aspazia, and Sofia Tech Park. Such partnerships served as a powerful reminder that true change is born from collective action.
We extend our gratitude to Ms. Ivelina Ivanova and Mr. Vlad Nosikoff for providing the wonderful photos, and to Ms. Ani Hristova for her contributions from her private archive. Thank you so much!
…Read the rest of this entry »
April 27th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
On April 26th, we gathered for our first meeting after the Easter holidays. A total of 17 people participated, and we were honored to have four special guests: Dr. Nikolai Tzaribachev, who served as our guest speaker, Dr. Wolfgang Tiedke-Stern, Mr. Domagoj Stefan (a Candidate member), and Mr. Serkan R. Halil (also a Candidate member).
The evening commenced with the recitation of the 4-Way Test and the introduction of our distinguished guests. President Mr. Rusinov began by highlighting the recent celebration of the 90th Anniversary of Rotary in Bulgaria. For more details on this event, please visit here. Additionally, he shared news about our involvement in the Rotary Exchange Program with our German friends and expressed our sincere gratitude for their visits to various intriguing places and Rotary clubs in Bulgaria. President Rusinov also announced the forthcoming annual conference of District 2482, scheduled for May 12-14 at the “Thracian Residence Starosel.”
Next on the agenda were updates from our Intellectually Disabled (ID) Hockey Team. Ms. Ani Hristova shared her experiences from visiting children’s training programs in Plovdiv. You can find more information about her visit here. President Rusinov also discussed the team’s visit to the French lycée, which took place on April 6th. The ID Team was invited to the Kindergarten and School “Victor Hugo” French Lycée, where they enjoyed an official lunch, observed training sessions, and participated in four demonstration matches with mixed teams of schoolchildren and our athletes. The meetings were highly successful, demonstrating growth in various aspects – physical, intellectual, and social. The parents of our athletes attended the event and were extremely pleased with the outcome.
The meeting continued with announcements regarding preparations for an upcoming fundraising event scheduled for May 17, 2023, at the Sun Hall of the National Museum of History. This event has been made possible through the generous support of our dear friend Mrs. Hristina Malchevska and her husband. The event will kick off at 18:30 with a complimentary museum tour offered in both English and Bulgarian. The official part will commence at 19:00. We are collaborating with two Rotary clubs from Sofia – Rotary Club Sofia Vitosha and Rotary Club Gorna Banya. The new ticket design, created by our friend Ms. Mariam Melikyan, was showcased and received approval from the club members. Ms. Alexandrina Kushinchanova, a student at NBU, sponsored by Prof. Milena Shushulova-Pavlova, Chairman of the Music department of NBU, will entertain event participants with a harp performance, thanks to our friend Mr. Plamen Latev. Our main sponsors at the moment include the National Museum of History, VIP Catering, McDonalds/McCafe, Rotary Club Sofia Vitosha (sponsoring mineral water), Rotary Club Gorna Bania (sponsoring ticket printing), and Bononia Estates (sponsoring wine). Photographer Alberto Staykov is also contributing. We are actively seeking additional sponsors, volunteers, and items for raffles and auctions. The event team is working diligently to ensure its success.
The meeting also included an announcement about the e-RYLA Seminar held on April 22, 2023. Rotaractors reported that the IV International e-RYLA on Environmentally Sound Leadership was a significant success, with over 50 participants from around the world. For more information about this event, please visit . The event featured engaging keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops covering topics such as sustainable business practices, renewable energy solutions, environmental policy, and advocacy, among others. Participants had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world, and they were inspired by the passion and commitment of the young leaders who attended. The Rotaractors also received an address from Jennifer Jones.
Our Interactors, located at Meridian School 22, owned by our dear friend Radka, are celebrating the school’s 30th anniversary on May 15, 2023, at the Sofia Opera. We extend a warm invitation to everyone to join in the celebration.
The highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Dr. Nikolay Tzaribachev on the topic “The Science behind The Art of Longevity.” In addition to his clinical work in the field of regenerative, functional, and aesthetic medicine, Dr. Tzaribachev conducts scientific research and delivers lectures at leading European conferences as part of an international team of experts. His work is closely aligned with the latest approaches in prevention, functional medicine, and regeneration, focusing on optimizing tissue biology and organ function through a highly individualized approach to preserve human youth, well-being, and health.
…Read the rest of this entry »
April 26th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
On 22 April in Hilton Hotel, Sofia the official event to celebrate the 90 Years anniversary of Rotary in Bulgaria was held. Rotary Club Sofia also celebrated their Birthday, as they were the first Rotary Club in Bulgaria.
The evening started with the 4-Way test and introduction of the guests. Just four days before our meeting the Bulgarian Rotarians celebrated the 90 Years anniversary of Rotary in Bulgaria, since on April 22, 1933, 16 prominent Bulgarian intellectuals and public figures signed a Protocol for the establishment of the first Rotary Club in Bulgaria. Today, 90 years later, there are 90 Rotary Clubs in Bulgaria. Nine members of our club joined the event in Hilton Hotel, Sofia.
Special guest of the evening were our German friends from the Rotary Friendship Exchange Program. They visited a number of interesting places and Rotary clubs in Bulgaria. More information here.
Guest singer of the club was Mr. Vlado Dimov, one of the best Bulgarian singers and he especially greeted our Club with his newest song.
Our Club would like to thank Mrs. Conka Taushanova, President of Rotary Club Sofia, for her warm hospitality.
…Read the rest of this entry »
April 25th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
The Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) is a program where two Rotary Districts send and host an exchange group, with Rotarians’ and the homestay is recommended. Host clubs cover the guests’ accommodation, meals and transportation costs, and visiting Rotarians cover their own costs and plane tickets. The purpose of the Rotary Friendship Exchange program is to create friendly relations with Rotarians and clubs from other regions, creating the possibility of bilateral relations that would be useful for future projects of Rotary clubs.
You can find more information by clicking on the link here.
The exchange was between District 2482 – Bulgaria and District 1950 (Northern Bavaria and Thuringia) and was held from 17 to 24 April 2023.
The guests from Germany – 5 people from Rotary clubs in Altenburg, Höchstadt and Karlstein, led by Past District Governor, Mrs. Christine Büring visited the Rotary clubs and got acquainted with many projects in the cities of Sofia, Sliven, Bourgas, Kazanlak, Plovdiv, Blagoevgrad, Dupnitsa and Gorna Banya, as well they also visited the Gorna Banya Rotary Community Corps.
Their visit coincided with the celebration of the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the first Rotary Club in Bulgaria in Hilton Hotel, Sofia.
They expressed their sincere gratitude for the warm welcome and wonderful friendships created during the meetings with the Rotarians from Bulgaria and their families.
Rotary Club Sofia International is proud that our Past President, Ms. Ani Hristova, who was at the heart of the organization of the exchange, is part of the Rotary Friendship Exchange Committee team.
Mrs. Linda Kim, Mr. Serkan Halil and Mr. Boyan Griffen opened their homes and hearts to the friends from Germany and welcomed them into their homes.
In June, the exchange will take place in Germany and the group leaving our country consists of 8 people from the 5 Rotary Clubs: Rotary Club Sofia International, Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha, Rotary Club Bourgas – Primorye, Rotary Club Dupnitsa and Rotary Club Samokov with the leader of the group Ms. Ani Hristova.
The group will attend the District Conference of District 1950 and the District Governors’s chain exchange ceremony.
The cities where the exchange will take place are Löhr, Höchstadt, Altenburg, Bamberg and Erfurt.
…Read the rest of this entry »
April 23rd, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
On 21-22 April 2023 the exciting and informative online seminar on “Environmentally Sound Leadership” was held, this included the role of leaders in promoting sustainability and preserving our planet for future generations. This event is the 4th e-RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) program organized by Rotary E-Club Köln, Rotary E-Club del Mediterraneo, Rotary eClub of Sillicon Valley, Rotary club Sofia International, Rotaract club Köln, Rotaract club Sofia International, Rotamentory, Our Future First, FRD.
Rotary Club Sofia International is thrilled to report that the IV International e-RYLA on Environmentally Sound Leadership was a huge success! With over 50 participants from around the world, the participants had the opportunity to learn from more than 10 speakers who shared their insights on various topics related to environmentally sound leadership.
Through engaging presentations, interactive discussions, and practical exercises, they delved into the principles of environmentally sound leadership and how they can be applied in our personal and professional lives. The participants had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from experts in the field, and gain valuable insights and tools for becoming a more effective leader in the realm of sustainability.
Topics covered included sustainable development, renewable energy, waste reduction, climate change, and more. Our distinguished speakers provided a global perspective on these issues and share best practices and innovative solutions for addressing them.
Throughout the two-day event, they participated in engaging keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Topics covered included sustainable business practices, renewable energy solutions, environmental policy and advocacy, and much more.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for participants to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. We were inspired by the passion and commitment of the young leaders who joined us, and we know that great things will come from the ideas that were born during the event.
The President of Rotary International, Mrs. Jennifer Jones, commended the Rotaractors for the creating this event!
Thank you, our dear Rotaract Club Sofia International. We are proud of you!
…Read the rest of this entry »
April 12th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
On 11 April, our Past President, Ms. Ani Hristova visited the training of our Field Hockey team. The training is every Monday and Tuesday from 16h00 at “Atrim Arena” hall in Plovdiv, so everyone is welcome to join and see the kids.
Ms. Hristova met the trainers, Mr. Dimitar Georgiev and Mr. Georgi Angelov. She also met the kids, that no matter that was before Easter, they trained hard. Ms. Hristova had a speech and express her happiness to be there.
The kids are wonderful and full of energy. They run, smile and play with their hearts. As well two trainers, from the Faculty of Pedagogy of the National Sport Academy were there and they especially trained the goalkeeper.
Ms. Hristova also tried to play field hockey and she even scored!
We are proud of our Project and everyone can join and support it!
…Read the rest of this entry »
April 10th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
The Presidents Elect Training Seminar (PETS) of Rotary Bulgaria, District 2482, took place in Ramada Hotel, Sofia on 8 April 2023. Alongside the Presidents Elect training, a module for the secretaries was also held, as well as the Rotary Foundation module.
On Saturday morning, the seminar was opened with the traditional bell and the anthems of Bulgaria and of Rotary Bulgaria. The District Governor Mrs. Violina Kostova opened the Seminar.
The District Governor Elect – Mr. Christo Mihailovsky introduced the 2023-2024 Rotary International President – Mr. Gordon R. Mcinally, as well he presented the Theme of the Year – “Create hope in the World”. Mr. Mihailovsky continued with the introduction of his team – the District Officers of D-2482. We are proud with our member and Past President, Mrs. Hristina Malchevska. She will continue to be Chair of the International Service Committee. Well done, Hristina and we wish you another successful year! Ms. Ani Hristova, Past President, Ms. Nevena Ivanova, President of Rotaract Club Sofia International and Ms. Radina Moskova, Past President of Rotaract Club Sofia International are members of Hristina’s team.
After the lunch break the participants were split into 3 groups – Presidents; Secretaries; Rotary Foundation Committee Members. The modules were focused on the tasks during the term of each group.
In the evening there was a dinner, with lots of dancing and a wonderful fellowship atmosphere.
…Read the rest of this entry »
March 30th, 2023 - posted in News and Events.
The last regular meeting for March was held at Hotel Hilton, Sofia on 29.03.2023. In total 13 people participated, 10 members were present in Hilton, two guests – our candidate member Mr. Serkan Halil and Mr. Domagoj Stefan and we had also one member online, our dear friend Mr. Alberto Rossi.
On April 22, 1933, 16 prominent Bulgarian intellectuals and public figures signed a Protocol for the establishment of the first Rotary Club in Bulgaria. Today, 90 years later, there are 90 Rotary Clubs in Bulgaria. Rotarians from Bulgaria will celebrate “90 years Rotary in Bulgaria” on 22nd of April 2023 at Hotel Hilton. The time schedule is as follows: 17:00 Exhibition – “90 years Rotary in Bulgaria”, 19:30 Official dinner; Ticket price: 140 BGN; Registration until 10.04.2023 here.
Another event dedicated to the anniversary “90 years Rotary in Bulgaria” is the Exhibition – Historical Collection Rotary Bulgaria1933-1941 at the Regional History Museum Sofia on 26.04.2023, 18:00 h.
Two more invitations followed, one from our District for the Annual Conference which will be held on May 12-14 at the “Thracian Residence Starosel” and the other one from our District and Rotary Club Burgas-Pirgos who are organizing for the 12th time a RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) Seminar. This time the RYLA Seminar will be in Burgas from 06.06.2023 till 06.08.2023 and will be International.
Then our President, Mr. Rumen Rusinov said a few words about the IAC PETS Seminar 18.03.2023 which took place in Sevlievo. Two Interaractors from our Interact club participated at the event, Mr. Danail Nedkov and Mr. Dimitar Nedevski. The children were accompanied by our member Mr. Kostadin Kostadinov. The President of our Rotaract club, Ms. Nevena Ivanova took also part as a lecturer at the Seminar.
Our President dedicated the rest of the meeting to the upcoming charity event to support the National Field Hockey Team for children with intellectual disabilities – ID Team. He announced that the event will be held in the Sun Room of the National Museum of History. Thanks to Hristina’s husband, a meeting took place with the museum’s director, Associate. Professor. Boni Petrunova, who agreed to provide the Sun Hall for the noble initiative. The museum will provide also the audio equipment and a free tour at the museum in English and Bulgarian thirty minutes before the official opening of the event. A Fund-raising event team was formed consisting of Mrs. Hristina Malchevska, Ms. Ani Hristova, Mr. Rumen Rusinov, Mr. Boyan Griffen, Mrs. Linda Kim, Mrs. Elena Vassileva, Mrs. Svetlana Bozhilova, Ms. Mariam Melikyan from our club. Partners at the event will be also two other Rotary clubs: Rotary Club Gorna Banya and Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha. The President announced that sponsors are welcome and requested all members for support. Pictures from the museum and the Sun room were shown on the screen and upcoming organizational work was discussed. Mr. Rusinov showed a draft of the entrance ticket which was discussed by the Fund-raising team earlier the same day and asked for the member’s opinion. The President updated the club members also about the ongoing trainings and showed a video from the trainings in Plovdiv. He again shared what has been done so far, mentioned the news from the Interview about the project that was shown at TV Nova News on 15.03.2023. Starting time 15:20. Here the Link:
He shared also the latest news for the upcoming tournament of the Field Hockey Team on 1st of April in Rudozem and announced that there will be again a demonstration match of the National Field Hockey ID Team. …Read the rest of this entry »
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