September 17th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
On 17 September 2025, Rotary Club Sofia International held its final summer meeting of the season at Raketa Rakia Bar.
We were delighted to once again welcome Mr. Borislav Vassilev, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Bulgaria in Cape Town, South Africa, and esteemed member of Rotary Club Blouberg, District 9350.
Mr. Vassilev shared warm greetings from our fellow Rotarians in Blouberg. We were especially touched by the kind gesture of Mrs. Helene Visser, who presented our Club with thoughtful gifts and a commemorative plaque. The recognition we received for our contribution to their Global Grant project in education was a true honor and a cause close to our hearts.
Further details about the event can be found here: Read more.
With the close of the summer season, Rotary Club Sofia International will resume its official weekly meetings starting 24 September 2025. Our primary meeting venue will once again be the Hilton Hotel, with an additional location announced each month.
We warmly invite all Rotarians and friends of Rotary to join us every Wednesday for fellowship, service, and meaningful exchange.
For attendance and further information, please contact us at info@rc-si.org.
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September 10th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
Our eleventh informal summer gathering was highlighted by a truly delightful evening in the company of our dear friends, Mr. Borislav Vasilev and Mrs. Nevena Ivanova. Their presence added warmth and spirit to the occasion, making the evening both memorable and meaningful.
During the meeting, our Secretary, Domagoj Stefan, shared his experiences and impressions from his recent visits with fellow Rotarians in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. His stories of hospitality, fellowship, and international cooperation sparked engaging conversations and reminded us of the strength of Rotary’s global network. It was inspiring to reflect on how personal connections and club exchanges help us grow not only as Rotarians but also as friends united in service.
As the summer season draws to a close, it is remarkable to look back at how quickly these months have passed, filled with informal gatherings that kept our fellowship alive. With autumn just around the corner, we are now preparing to resume our official meetings in only two weeks’ time. The excitement is building, and we look forward to entering the new season with renewed energy, fresh ideas, and the strong spirit of community that defines our club.
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September 8th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
On 7 September 2025, our Secretary, Mr. Domagoj Stefan, had the joy of meeting fellow Rotarians from Rotary Club Bishkek, District 2430, Kyrgyzstan.
The gathering took place in the welcoming and cozy atmosphere of MOQA restaurant, providing a perfect setting for friendship and fellowship. Conversations flowed easily as we exchanged stories about life in our countries, shared experiences from our respective clubs, and discussed ongoing service initiatives. The dialogue also opened doors for exploring opportunities for closer cooperation and possible visits between our clubs in the future.
The warmth and openness of our hosts reflected the very best of Rotary values. It was inspiring to hear about the meaningful work being carried out by Rotary Club Bishkek in their community, and to discover many areas where our clubs share common goals and interests.
This enriching afternoon served not only as a chance to strengthen international Rotary ties but also as a reminder of the unifying power of Rotary across cultures and borders. We are truly grateful for the hospitality of Rotary Club Bishkek and look forward to many more opportunities to build on this friendship and cooperation.
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September 4th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.

On 3 September 2025, our Secretary, Mr. Domagoj Stefan, had the pleasure of visiting Rotary Club Almaty International, District 2430, Kazakhstan.
He was warmly welcomed by their Vice President, Mrs. Madina Kadyrkyzy Kossay, in the elegant setting of Hotel Rixos Almaty, a perfect backdrop for Rotary friendship and exchange.
The evening brought together Rotarians from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds, reflecting the international spirit of Rotary. Discussions touched upon ongoing service projects, the importance of building cross-border understanding, and opportunities for cooperation between our clubs. Inspiring stories were shared about how Rotary continues to make a difference in local communities across Kazakhstan, as well as throughout the wider District 2430 region.
This visit was more than just a meeting – it was a reminder of the strength of Rotary’s global network and the friendships that arise from it. We are deeply grateful for the hospitality and warmth shown by Rotary Club Almaty International and look forward to welcoming their members to one of our future gatherings, strengthening the bonds of fellowship and service between our clubs.
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August 27th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
At our ninth informal summer gathering on August 27th, we once again enjoyed a wonderful evening in the company of Mr. Angelo Piacarelli and his daughter. Their warm presence added to the spirit of friendship and exchange that makes these gatherings so special. We look forward to welcoming them more often, especially as Mr. Piacarelli becomes increasingly active in expanding his business in Bulgaria. His growing involvement in the local community promises new opportunities for collaboration, and we are delighted to share in the journey of building stronger ties both personally and professionally.
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August 20th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
10 People, 7 plus 1 Nationalities – One Inspiring Rotary Evening!
On 20 August 2025, Rotary Club Sofia International held a truly special informal gathering at Raketa Rakia Bar.
We were delighted to welcome Mrs. Rosie Shapiro from Rotary Club Afeka AvivTek, District 2490, Israel.
Her club brings together high-tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives who support young tech companies and give back to the community through their knowledge and expertise. Learn more here: https://www.avivtek.com/about-en
It was an absolute pleasure hosting Rosie, and we hope to see her again soon!
Another honored guest was Mr. Borislav Vassilev, Honorary Consul of Bulgaria in Cape Town, South Africa, and a proud member of Rotary Club Blouberg, District 9350, South Africa. He conveyed warm greetings from his club, especially from Mrs. Helene Visser, District Rotary Foundation Chair.
We were deeply touched to receive a special plaque and gift for our contribution to their Global Grant project in education:
“To: Sofia Rotary Club, Bulgaria
In appreciation of your financial donation towards the upgrade of this farm school & the education of learners.
Rotary Club of Blouberg D9350
Wallingford Memorial RC D7870
13 February 2025”
And last but certainly not least, our dear member Mrs. Mariam Melikyan shared a banner from her new home club – Rotary Club Yerevan International, District 2452, Armenia.
Though Mariam has moved back to Yerevan, she will always be part of our Sofia family.
This evening was yet another reminder that Rotary connects people across borders, cultures, and professions – united in service and friendship.
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August 6th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
Wonderful Summer Gathering!
On August 6, Rotary Club Sofia International had the pleasure of welcoming our special guest, Mr. Angelo Ceciarelli from Rotary Club Marbella, along with his son.
It was a meeting full of Rotary spirit, meaningful discussions, and heartfelt emotions.
We were especially proud to celebrate our members, Ms. Mariam Melikyan and Ms. Elisaveta Lachina, who were both honored with their Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
Another highlight was receiving a flag from Rotary Club Berlin International, kindly delivered by our member Ms. Lachina.
A truly memorable day for our Rotary family!
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July 2nd, 2025 - posted in News and Events.

During Rotary Club Sofia International’s second informal gathering of the summer, held on July 9th, 2025, at Raketa Rakia Bar, we had the pleasure of welcoming a special guest from Rotary Club Marbella, Mr. Angelo Piacarelli, who was accompanied by his daughter. Their presence brought an international spirit to the evening and enriched the atmosphere with friendship and engaging conversation.
The gathering was a wonderful opportunity to exchange experiences across clubs and countries, while also strengthening the bonds of fellowship that unite Rotarians worldwide. Moments like these remind us how vibrant and far-reaching our Rotary family truly is.
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June 30th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
On June 29, in celebration of Danube Day, Rotaract Club Ruse hosted another exciting edition of its “Blind Date with a Book” – an initiative where the favorite books of the people of Ruse set off on new adventures. The twist? Each participant received a mystery book, fully wrapped – no title, no author, just the promise of a brand-new literary experience.
The event was held with the support of Ruse Municipality and served as a heartfelt gesture from Rotaract to all citizens who love reading, sharing, and finding inspiration – this time, by the waters of our beloved Danube.
“Books can bring people together just as the Danube unites countries. We wanted to offer not just a book, but the thrill of the unknown and the joy of something shared.”– shared the organizers.
Originally planned for May 24 and prepared by Interact Club Ruse, the initiative had to be postponed due to bad weather. On June 29, it was successfully carried out – just in time to intertwine the love for books with the celebration of the river.
Rotary Club Sofia International was happy to take part in the initiative providing a number of books due to generous donations from members of the club, main contribution made by Grant Dale, also books were provided by Hristina Malchevska, Svetlana Bozhilova, Elisaveta Lachina and Nikolay Tsaribashev. Heartfelt thanks to Rotary Club Gorna Banya as well who generously contributed with a number of books as well. , thus dozens of books were donated and made available for the “blind date” – ready to find their next reader. The generosity allowed to promote the love of reading in a unique and emotional way.
Thank you to everyone who brought their favorite book and received a new story in return. The next “Blind Date with a Book” is already in the works – stay tuned to be a part of it!
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May 30th, 2025 - posted in News and Events.
This spring, Rotary Club Sofia International proudly highlights the exemplary generosity of two of its newest members, Teodora and Dimitar Dimitrovi, who have made a meaningful contribution to the community and educational development in Samokov.
Demonstrating their commitment to the values of Rotary and the advancement of education, the Dimitrovi family donated 30 desks to the Nikola Y. Vaptsarov Vocational Technical High School. These desks have been used to furnish two administrative offices, significantly improving the working conditions for the school’s staff and contributing to the effective operation of its academic and vocational programs.
Extending their support beyond the school, Teodora and Dimitar also donated three conference tables to the Sunday School at Belyova Church – a cherished spiritual and historical landmark in Samokov. These tables will help foster a more welcoming and functional environment for group activities, discussions, and learning sessions held at the church.
This thoughtful and impactful donation is a reflection of the Dimitrovi family’s values and their desire to give back to the communities they are part of. Their actions exemplify Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self” and inspire all of us to seek opportunities to make a difference.
Rotary Club Sofia International extends its heartfelt gratitude to Teodora and Dimitar for their dedication, generosity, and for setting a shining example of service and fellowship.
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