May 11th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
The Sofia edition of this year’s National initiative of the Rotaract clubs in Bulgaria, “Closet with a Cause”, took place on May 9th, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Rotaract Club Sofia Serdika, Rotaract Club Sofia International, Rotaract Club Sofia Vitosha, and with the generous support of Rotary Club Sofia International.
The event provided an excellent platform for informal networking on sustainable fashion and emphasized the importance of extending the life cycle of existing clothes. Our special guest speakers were the inspiring creators of Unboxed, a platform for reselling fashion items. Guests had the opportunity to purchase items from Unboxed, with proceeds going towards supporting our cause. The event raised over 300 BGN, which will be allocated to purchasing basic necessities for the Home for Temporary Accommodation of Homeless and Socially Disadvantaged Persons and Families in Need in the town of Varna.
Any unsold clothes and shoes from the event will be either donated or recycled, ensuring that they continue to serve a purpose. We extend our gratitude to our partners at WorkBetter and Mania for their support in promoting sustainable practices and curbing fast fashion.
Rotary Club Sofia International is immensely proud of the success of this event and pledges continued support to Rotaract Club Sofia International in their endeavors promoting sustainability and social responsibility.
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May 11th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
A momentous meeting recently occurred between two Rotary Clubs under the support of Mr. Gordon R. McInally, the President of Rotary International. Less than a year ago, at the beginning of his presidential term, Mr. McInally introduced the theme for this Rotary year – to Create Hope in the World. This was precisely the message he conveyed during the virtual meeting held on May 7th, which brought together Rotary Club Sofia International and Rotary Club Cubao Quezon City (QC) Philippines.
The hybrid gathering united over 15 members from both clubs, where we joyfully began by presenting our ongoing projects, including:
- The Rehabilitation Center for Children and Families recovering from Oncohematological Diseases
- The Med-Bul Project, dedicated to providing new medical equipment to hospitals in Sofia and the region
- Rotary Club Sofia International’ collaboration with the Bulgarian Field Hockey Federation (BFHF) for the establishment of an ID Hockey Team for children with special needs, who won a silver medal at the Special Olympics in Berlin, Germany
Following this, the past President of Rotary Club Cubao, Paul Estrebillo, outlined the club’s initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare in local communities and expressed their eagerness to collaborate with communities beyond their region. The club is also actively raising global funds to support those in need beyond their immediate reach.
Mr. McInally celebrated these endeavors with us and encouraged us to continue creating hope through causes close to our clubs. His emphasis on promoting peace, one of Rotary’s core pillars, is particularly crucial in today’s troubled world. Rotary’s partnerships with various organizations to advocate for peace exemplify the club’s international efforts to promote good health, support the disadvantaged, care for the environment, and foster peace. We also reflected on Rotary Club’s remarkable success in eradicating the Polio virus by 99%, envisioning a world free from Polio.
Another significant point raised by Mr. McInally and our President, Mr. Grant Dale, was the importance of mutual support in regions of the world where people, especially mothers and children, are displaced and struggle to lead normal lives from birth through adulthood. Rotary continues to provide assistance in hard-to-reach areas in Africa where healthcare and education are still developing. Together, we pledged to extend help to others while also focusing on and fundraising for projects in our respective countries. Our recent book donation project in Greece and support for school restoration in South Africa exemplify our commitment to creating lasting change beyond borders.
We are grateful for the time spent with these remarkable individuals on behalf of Rotary Club Cubao Philippines and President Gordon R. McInally, as we learn from one another, nurture our dreams, address challenges, and actively work towards Creating Hope in the World
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May 4th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
Our dear former member, Mr. Michael Angerer, now a member of Rotary Club Hietzing Vienna, returns to Bulgaria to meet with Rotary Club Sofia International.
Rotary is dedicated to promoting peace, caring for the disadvantaged, and fostering lifelong friendships. Our recent celebration of friendship serves as a testament to these ideals. Mr. Michael Angerer, a former member of Rotary Club Sofia International until 2014, journeyed all the way from Austria to Sofia, Bulgaria, to reconnect with us and discuss pressing matters facing his current club, the Rotary Club of Hietzing in Vienna.
Amidst the bustling atmosphere of Vitosha Boulevard on May 1st, we seized the opportunity to exchange ideas across borders. Topics ranged from expanding our MED-BUL project to supplying much-needed medical equipment from Austria to Bulgarian hospitals in dire need of renewal. Michael also enlightened us about innovative initiatives within Rotary, particularly their project supporting children with autism. Collaborating with a company offering groundbreaking brain stimulation therapy, their efforts have yielded remarkable results, a model they aim to replicate in Bulgaria.
Proudly, we shared our recent accomplishments, including our support for a recovery center aiding families and children battling oncohematological diseases. Our commitment to enhancing the center’s facilities aligns with our mission to provide hope and healing to those in need. Michael was captivated by our narrative of transforming a fledgling hockey team for disadvantaged individuals into an Olympic champion at last year’s Special Olympics in Berlin. Through collaboration with the Bulgarian Hockey Federation and our dedicated member and friend, Mr. Jörg Schenk, we secured additional financial support from the Bulgarian government, ensuring the club’s continued success in bringing joy to countless families.
Additionally, we shared the project of the International Service Committee – the Danube Alliance. We were impressed to learn that Michael had kept the pages of the Address book of our Club for many years, preserving memories of our Club and its members.
Michael’s visit reaffirmed Rotary’s transcendent nature, illustrating how our organization extends beyond geographical boundaries. With over 11 members hailing from Germany and Austria, our club in Bulgaria welcomes all who share our passion for Rotary’s values. We express our gratitude to Michael for his visit and eagerly anticipate the positive impact this “return to home” meeting will have on our ongoing efforts to spread goodwill and foster hope worldwide.
See you soon, dear friend!
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May 2nd, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
On April 25th, we gathered at the Expo Hotel in Sofia for a unique and emotional evening as we celebrated 37 years of women in Rotary. Ms. Mariam Melikyan, Ms. Ani Hristova, Mrs. Svetlana Bozhilova, and Mrs. Hristina Malchevska were specially invited to experience this memorable occasion.
Guiding and moderating the event was Mrs. Megi Dimcheva, who led us on a journey through “The Wonders Within Us” (“Чудесата в нас”). This experience is designed to help you encounter yourself through meditative texts and short films, facilitating self-transformation.
“The Wonders Within Us” was a magical spectacle that touched our souls with its abundance of love and beautiful Bulgarian music. It reminded us that while wonders surround us, the greatest wonder is ourselves – the love we give and receive, and our kindness towards loved ones and friends.
The event was further enriched by the musical accompaniment of Boris Iliev, whose tender voice and charisma serenaded us with beloved songs.
We invite you to join us for the premiere of “The Wonders Within Us” on June 6th at the Toplocentrala! Tickets are available here.
For more information about Megi Dimcheva, visit Megi’s YouTube channel.
Additionally, Mira Dobreva graced us with her presence and presented her new book, “Fireflies behind Bars.”
The evening was made even more delightful by the presence of wonderful ladies from across Bulgaria, infusing the atmosphere with beautiful feminine energy.
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May 1st, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
We are excited to share the highlights of our 26th Regular Meeting, where the spirit of service and collaboration illuminated the room.
One of the standout moments of the evening was our joint session with Rotary Club Stockholm Kungsträdgården. Their dedication to “Service Above Self” was evident, and their wealth of experience left a lasting impression on us all. Witnessing their passion for community service was truly inspiring.
We were privileged to host District Governor Christo Mihailovsky at our meeting. His call for an inter-country alliance with Sweden resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in advancing our shared mission of service.
Throughout the gathering, vibrant discussions and brainstorming sessions took place as we exchanged ideas and explored potential projects to make a positive impact in our communities. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and enthusiasm as we worked together to find innovative solutions. The intention to forge a Rotary Friendship Exchange was agreed upon.
A significant focus of our deliberations was the request for assistance from RC Blouberg to support their Global Grant project for Vaatjie Mor Primary School. Recognizing the importance of this endeavor, we pledged our commitment to provide support and assistance.
As we reflect on the meeting, we are grateful for the opportunity to come together as Rotarians and friends, united in our dedication to making a difference. We eagerly anticipate continuing our journey of service and collaboration, inspired by the bonds of friendship and the principles of Rotary.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who participated and contributed to the success of our meeting. Together, we are making a meaningful impact in our communities and beyond.
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April 30th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
On Tuesday, April 23rd, under the warm Florida sun, our esteemed member, Ms. Elisaveta Lachina, had the privilege of joining the Rotary Club of Tampa, Florida, as they celebrated their 110th Anniversary at the Ferguson Law Center in Tampa. Elisaveta shared that the ceremony was a vibrant and momentous occasion, rekindling the spirit of goodwill and service that defines the essence of Rotary. It was a reminder of the enduring legacy of benevolence upheld by the club, continuing to spread hope throughout the world.
The event presented an excellent opportunity to cultivate connections between our Rotary club in Bulgaria and the vibrant community in Florida, fostering the exchange of experiences, ideas, and collaborative efforts to initiate new projects.
The rich history of the Tampa club, dating back to 1914, serves as a testament to the enduring power of the Rotary ideal and the belief in a better tomorrow for all. Guests from across the United States graced the occasion, and all attendees were captivated by the fascinating narrative of the club’s journey.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to President, Mrs. Kathleen Luzier Bogolea, Brookie Melendie, the club’s dedicated administrator, and all members for their warm hospitality and for graciously welcoming us into this remarkable gathering. We eagerly anticipate our next meeting, where we will engage in fruitful discussions to further strengthen our bonds and collaborate on meaningful endeavors together.
Hope to meet all of you soon, dear new friends of our Club, and let’s Create Hope in the World together!
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April 29th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
Before the meeting, there was a gathering of the Presidents of the Sofia Rotary clubs to discuss upcoming events in Sofia.
Guests at the main meeting included friends from all over Sofia, with whom thoughts, experiences, and plans for the development of Rotary causes were shared in casual conversations.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation by macroeconomics specialist, Dr. Evgeniy Kanev, a former Rotarian, who delivered a captivating lecture on the topic “Challenges Facing Bulgaria and Business in the Eurozone.”
Representing our club was Ms. Ani Hristova, who detailed the opportunities available to clubs and individual members through international Rotary Friendship Exchanges.
Additionally, with much emotion and dedication, Ani shared about a project uniting Rotary clubs along the Danube River – Danube Alliance, under the International Service Committee.
Ani also spoke about the upcoming event on May 15th, organized jointly with the Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha and the Rotary Club Gorna Banya, detailing our two projects: funding the creation of a photovoltaic system at the Rehabilitation Center for Children with Oncohematological diseases in the village of Opitsvet, and the MED-BUL project.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our friends from the Rotary Club Sofia-City for their wonderful media coverage and kind words of friendship! Until our next meeting!
Mrs. Violina Kostova, one of the main initiators and participants in the development of the project for friendship among the clubs along the Danube River, provided numerous details about the progress and success of this endeavor.
More information about the meeting here. …Read the rest of this entry »
April 28th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
On April 17, 2024, Rotary Club Sofia International, alongside Dr. Nikolay Tzaribachev of Regenics Medical Ltd, and Chef Alexandrov, former Chef of Hilton Hotel Sofia, joined forces to pioneer a new approach to scientifically informed cooking for Rotarians and Friends.
The journey began with a fortuitous meeting between our esteemed Rotary Club Sofia International member, Dr. Tzaribachev, and Mrs. Biliana Georgieva, CEO of LiderBG, one of Bulgaria’s premier business platforms. What was intended as a brief 30-minute discussion extended into a captivating 3-hour exchange. Dr. Tzaribachev’s revelation about the potential health risks associated with salads sparked intrigue and curiosity, laying the groundwork for what would become an inspiring collaboration.
Chef Alexandrov, Chef Kustev from Ritz London, Biliana Georgieva, and Dr. Tzaribachev convened for an intensive afternoon session. Together, they delved into the scientific intricacies of healthy eating, meticulously crafted an innovative menu, and put their culinary expertise to the test to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.
More than 40 Rotarians and Friends, including representatives from Zonta Club Sofia – Mrs. Katja Stoitchkova and Mrs. Vaska Penkova – were treated to an enlightening journey into the realm of nutritional medicine led by Dr. Tzaribachev. Chef Alexandrov skillfully blended traditional Bulgarian cuisine with haute cuisine techniques, infusing each dish with a scientific twist.
Our President, Mr. Grant Dale, and Secretary, Ms. Ani Hristova, were honored to welcome our esteemed guests. They took the opportunity to announce the upcoming Rotary Club Sofia International Gala Event, scheduled for May 15th. This event, in collaboration with Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha and Rotary Club Gorna Banya, aims to support two noble causes: MED-BUL and Children with Oncohematological Diseases. Held at the National Historical Museum, it promises to be an evening of compassion, camaraderie, and meaningful impact.
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April 27th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
The Presidents Elect Training Seminar (PETS) for Rotary Bulgaria, District 2482, took place at the Hissar Hotel during the weekend of April 13-14, 2024. Alongside the training for Presidents Elect, modules were also conducted for secretaries and the Rotary Foundation, as is the tradition each year. Notably, participants from Rotary Club Sofia International included Mr. Plamen Lazarov (our President Elect), Mrs. Svetlana Foteva-Bozhilova (our Secretary Elect), and Mrs. Hristina Malchevska (Rotary Foundation lead Elect).The seminar commenced on Saturday morning with the ringing of the traditional bell and the playing of the national anthems of the Republic of Bulgaria and Rotary Bulgaria. District Governor Mr. Christo Mihailovsky officially opened the seminar.
Mrs. Margarita Bogdanova, the District Governor Elect, introduced the 2024-2025 Rotary Theme of the Year: “The Magic of Rotary.” She then proceeded to introduce her team—the District Officers of D-2482. We take pride in the fact that members from our club are integral to the District team. Mrs. Hristina Malchevska, Ms. Ani Hristova (Past President and Secretary of the Club), and Ms. Nevena Ivanova (Past President of Rotaract Club Sofia International) play key roles. Hristina will continue as Chair of the International Service Committee for a third year, Ani will lead the International Rotary Friendship Exchange Program, and Nevena will contribute to the District team responsible for the Youth program.
Throughout the seminar, participants engaged with valuable information, best practices, and successful project examples. Notably, Rotary Club Veliko Tarnovo received special recognition and congratulations for their project involving the reconstruction and renovation of the Kids Hospital Department in their town. This remarkable achievement was made possible through collaboration with America for Bulgaria and other organizations, demonstrating that significant societal impact can result from effective partnerships and strategic public relations efforts.
Following the lunch break, participants split into three groups: Presidents, Secretaries, and Rotary Foundation Committee Members. Each group focused on training, practical knowledge, and tasks relevant to their roles during their term.
In the evening, a dinner provided an excellent opportunity for fellowship among Rotarian friends from across Bulgaria.
The next day featured a Q & A session, during which clubs provided feedback on the seminar. Recommendations for the upcoming Rotarian year were shared, and the District Governor concluded the meeting by wishing success to the new Presidents, Secretaries, and club teams.
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April 13th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
In the past months of March and April, we’ve been overwhelmed with gratitude for the generosity and support pouring in from our fellow Rotarians and friends. Thanks to the kindness of Rotary Club Gorna Banya, Rotary Club Sofia Triaditsa, and our dedicated supporters, we’ve been able to make a meaningful impact through our initiatives.
Our Book Project in the Hellenic Republic, in collaboration with Rotary Club Kifissia-Kastri, continues to thrive, thanks to the unwavering dedication of our team and partners. We’re proud to report that our dear friends, Mr. Hristo Georgiev and Mr. Ivan Penov from Rotary Club Gorna Banya D2482, have generously donated laptops to the Bulgarian Association. These invaluable contributions will undoubtedly make learning and teaching much easier for the children and educators alike.
In addition, we’re delighted to highlight the remarkable efforts of our new friend, Mrs. Kristina Doneva, representing Rotary Club Sofia Triaditsa. Kristina spearheaded a heartwarming campaign among friends and colleagues, collecting numerous children’s books to support our cause. Among these treasures is a Scenario for Theatre performance, and she generously donated six copies to each of the six schools in the Bulgarian Association.
But the generosity doesn’t end there! Another anonymous friend stepped forward, contributing The Bulgarian Constitution, detailed maps, and vibrant Bulgarian flags. What makes this donation extra special is that our anonymous benefactor selflessly gave away twelve of his own books, originally awarded for academic excellence during his school years. Their belief in our project and the importance of preserving our roots, especially abroad, truly warms our hearts.
Rotary Club Sofia International extends heartfelt gratitude to Rotary Club Gorna Banya, Mr. Georgiev, and Mr. Penov; Rotary Club Sofia Triaditsa, Mrs. Doneva, her friends, colleagues from “Sofiyska voda” AD, and our anonymous benefactor. Thank you for bringing joy and knowledge to the children! And those smiles on the kids’ faces? Priceless! Together, we’re making a difference that truly matters.
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