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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April 13th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
We’re excited to share the highlights from our recent gathering at Rotary Club Sofia International! Our distinguished guest presenter, Dr. Evelina Kelbetcheva PhD, led an engaging discussion on a thought-provoking topic: “Liberation or Occupation?: Red Army Monuments in Bulgaria” Dr. Kelbetcheva’s insights shed light on the historical significance of these monuments and sparked meaningful conversations among our members. Learn more about Dr. Evelina Kelbetcheva PhD here.
In addition to our enlightening discussion, we’re proud to announce the continued support for the book project with Rotary Club Kifissia-Kastri for the school in Kavala. This ongoing initiative is a testament to our commitment to education and literacy in communities beyond borders.
Save the Date: Culinary Event on April 17th
Mark your calendars for our upcoming Culinary Event on April 17th! Join us at Complex Gallery Vitosha for an evening of healthy gastronomic delights and delightful company. Find us on the map and be sure to reserve your spot for what promises to be a memorable night. Please use the following form to reserve.
After the close of our meeting, the fellowship continued as we enjoyed each other’s company and strengthened the bonds of friendship that make our Rotary club so special.
Thank you to everyone who attended our 24th Regular Meeting. Your participation and enthusiasm contribute to the success of our club and our mission to make a positive impact in our community and beyond.
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April 6th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
We are delighted to share some exciting updates from our recent gathering! Our esteemed member, Christoph Plate, graced us with his presence as our guest presenter, diving into the captivating topic of ‘Media and Disinformation.’ Christoph’s insightful talk sparked lively discussions and left us with a wealth of knowledge to navigate the complexities of today’s media landscape. It was truly an enlightening experience that reminded us of the importance of staying vigilant in the digital age.
In addition, we’re gearing up for something truly special: our eagerly anticipated Fundraising Gala Event on May 15th. This is an evening where we come together as a community to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. And this year, our focus is on supporting two incredibly important causes:
- Powering Hope: We’re on a mission to finance a Photovoltaic Plant for the Association of Parents with Children Recovering from Oncohematological Diseases. This sustainable energy solution will provide a reliable power source for the association’s facilities, ensuring that children undergoing treatment have the support and comfort they deserve during their recover, it will also ensure their continued sustainability.
- Med-Bul Project: Our commitment to improving healthcare knows no bounds. Through the Med-Bul Project, we’re providing essential medical equipment and resources to healthcare facilities where they are most needed. By supporting this project, you’re directly contributing to better healthcare outcomes for communities across Bulgaria.
Our Gala Event promises to be an evening filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of giving back. We’ll be gathering at the prestigious National Museum of History at 18:30 for a 19:00 start, surrounded by the company of friends old and new. With delicious food, delightful surprises, and heart-warming conversations on the agenda, it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
Event Details:
- Date: May 15th, 2023
- Time: 18:30 for 19:00
- Location: National Museum of History
- Ticket Prices:
- Guests and Rotarians: 80 BGN
- Rotaractors: 50 BGN
To reserve your spot and contribute to these worthy causes, simply make your payment to our donation account:
- IBAN: BG49STSA93000027355924
- BIC: STSABGSF
- Beneficiary: Rotary Club Sofia International
- Note: Don’t forget to include “15 May Gala” in the description, along with the names of your guests.
Let’s come together and make a meaningful impact on the world around us. Your support means everything to us, and together, we can create positive change that ripples far and wide.
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March 31st, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
Rotary Club Sofia International recently convened for another momentous gathering, brimming with the vibrant spirit of Rotary. Together, we charted a course for our exciting future endeavors, building upon our recent successes and impactful projects:
- 15th May Fundraising Event: Collaborating with Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha and Rotary Club Gorna Banya, we organized a fundraising event supporting two vital causes. The proceeds from this event will contribute to the Med-Bul Project, providing essential medical equipment, and the construction of a photovoltaic plant for the Rehabilitation Center for Children recovering from Oncohematological diseases.
- 7th May Joint Meeting: We are eagerly anticipating a joint meeting with Rotary Club Cubao – Philippines and the President of Rotary International – Gordon McInally, on May 7th. This meeting will provide a valuable opportunity for fellowship and international collaboration.
- Continuation of Our Book Project in Kavala: Our commitment to the book project at the school in Kavala remains unwavering. Following our recent visit, we donated several new laptops to enrich the learning experience for students and teachers alike.
- Cooking Event with Dr. Nikolay Tzaribachev: Join us for an exciting healthy cooking event organized by Rotary Club Sofia International and our respected member, Nikolay Tzaribachev, a renowned medical physician and health expert. Together, we will explore healthy cooking practices and delve into the science behind nutrition. Save the date for April 17th at 18:30 in Complex Gallery Vitosha.
Our gathering was made even more special by the esteemed presence of His Excellency Dr. Željko Jović, Ambassador of Serbia in Bulgaria. Amidst his bustling schedule, he graced us with his illuminating insights and inspiring anecdotes. Dr. Jović regaled us with tales of cross-border cooperation, highlighting the recent free trade agreements forged between Serbia and Asian market leaders. His vision for strengthened diplomatic ties and enhanced economic partnerships left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds.
Dr. Jović expressed his fondness for meetings with Rotary Clubs, not only in Bulgaria but also in Serbia. For him, Bulgaria feels like home, and the meeting was akin to welcoming a member of our club rather than having a guest. The conversation provided a great opportunity for everyone to hear about some of the superb projects in Serbia, including the construction of advanced infrastructure and the opening of a new Ministry office of Dual Education. This initiative, integrated into the educational system for several years, has shown excellent results in youth development and provided resources for the many international business opportunities emerging in Serbia.
As we captured the moment with a joint picture, we were reminded of the common bonds that unite us. We are committed to spreading hope for a better and more peaceful world.
Lastly, we used the opportunity to remind everyone about our highly anticipated Fundraising Event on May 15th. We encourage everyone to join us and secure tickets in advance to support our important projects. Ticket details are as follows:
- Guests and Rotarians: 80 BGN
- Rotaractors: 50 BGN
To secure your tickets, please make the payment to our donation account:
- IBAN: BG49STSA93000027355924
- BIC: STSABGSF
- Beneficiary: Rotary Club Sofia International
Note: Please include “15 May Gala” in the description and provide the names of the guests.
Join us as we continue our journey of service and fellowship, making a positive impact in our communities and beyond.
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March 25th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
We are proud to share the inspiring journey of three Interactors from the Interact Club of Sofia International, accompanied by a dedicated mentor from Rotary Club Sofia International, who recently attended the PETS seminar held in Pamporovo.
During the seminar, our Interactors were immersed in a wealth of knowledge, interactive training sessions, and engaging lectures. They embraced the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills and gain valuable insights that will empower them to lead the Interact Club of Sofia at the Meridian School with confidence and enthusiasm.
The enthusiasm and energy exhibited by our Interactors were truly remarkable, reflecting their commitment to making a positive impact in their community and beyond. They eagerly participated in discussions, workshops, and team-building activities, soaking in every opportunity for growth and development.
One of the highlights of the event was the post-PETS dinner hosted by Rotary Club Smolyan, which provided a platform for meaningful fellowship and networking. Our Interactors had the chance to connect with fellow Rotarians, exchange ideas, and forge valuable connections that will serve them well as they continue their journey in Rotary.
As they return from the seminar, our Interactors are filled with renewed inspiration and determination to make a difference in the world. We commend them for their dedication and enthusiasm, and we are confident that they will continue to be shining examples of leadership and service in our community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rotary Club Smolyan for their warm hospitality and for organizing such a memorable event. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter future, one where our youth are empowered to lead and serve with compassion and integrity.
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March 23rd, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
Our recent gathering on March 20th served as a testament to the enduring spirit of Rotary, underscored by our shared values and commitment. We came together to celebrate our recent book donation project in Greece and extend a warm welcome to the “Bulgaria Wants You” team, represented by Monika Chopakova.
The official proceedings began with the reading of the Four-Way Test, followed by a presentation from Monika highlighting the organization’s objectives and projects. Established in 2020, “Bulgaria Wants You” has been instrumental in uniting Bulgarians worldwide and promoting Bulgaria as a destination for opportunity, encapsulated by the slogan “Here you have Everything.”
The organization facilitates large exhibition events partnering with Bulgarian and international business professionals operating in Bulgaria, addressing challenges and assisting young people in securing employment opportunities. Beyond jobs, it fosters friendships, networks, and offers support in various migration-related matters, highlighting Bulgaria as one of the most beautiful places to be.
As an international club, we wholeheartedly congratulate “Bulgaria Wants You” and extend our best wishes for their continued success in fostering unity and prosperity. We hope for continued collaboration, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in addressing Bulgaria’s demographic challenges.
Monika’s presentation was remarkable; she captivated us with her smile and talent. She concluded her presentation by “bringing us back to our roots” with her beautiful rendition of the song “Yasen mesec vech izgriava” – the anthem of Strandzha mountain.
Our meeting continued with a timely reminder of our upcoming fundraising event on May 15th at the National History Museum in Sofia. Proceeds will support two crucial causes: The Rehabilitation Center for Children recovering from Oncohematological Diseases and the “Med Bul” project. In collaboration with Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha and Rotary Club Gorna Banya, we extend a warm invitation to all members, their friends, and guests to join us. Entrance tickets are available in advance through the details below:
- Guests and Rotarians: 80 BGN
- Rotaractors: 50 BGN
To secure your tickets, please make the payment to our donation account:
- IBAN: BG49STSA93000027355924
- BIC: STSABGSF
- Beneficiary: Rotary Club Sofia International
- Note: Please add in the description: “15 May Gala” and include the names of the guests.
Additionally, we are joyful and privileged to welcome the President of Rotary International – Mr. Gordon R. McInally, to our upcoming virtual hybrid meeting with Rotary Club Cobao – Quezon City, the Philippines, on May 7th. Details can be accessed through our shared club calendar for members, with the meeting scheduled for 12:00 PM.
We extend our sincere gratitude to fellow Rotary clubs in Bulgaria for their invitations and shared causes. As a club, we remain committed to supporting a diverse range of initiatives, such as our recent book drive for the Bulgarian school in Kavala. Members, Ms. Ani Hristova and Mrs. Svetlana Bozhilova, recounted their meaningful visit to the school, where they firsthand witnessed the needs of the community and exchanged valuable conversations and memories with students and teachers. We are dedicated to continuing our support and eagerly anticipate hearing more stories from the school in Kavala, Greece, together with our twin club – Rotary Club Kifissia-Kastri.
The project is sustainable, and everyone who wants to donate or contribute ideas is very welcome.
As our gathering drew to a close, we embraced the opportunity for fellowship, engaging in lively conversations and eagerly anticipating our next meeting with the Ambassador of Serbia in Bulgaria. Each encounter, cause, and story shared within our club serves as a signal of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter world.
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March 18th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
Embark on a Journey to Kavala, Greece, a hidden gem nestled in the northern region of this picturesque country. Known affectionately as the ‘little Paradise city,’ Kavala holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly for the Bulgarian diaspora.
On the 15th of March, our members and dear friends were graciously welcomed to Kavala by Mrs. Anelia Hristova, Chair of the “Bulgaria” Association in Greece, and Mrs. Tanya Koleva, Director of 5 of the 6 Bulgarian schools within the Association.
Together, we shared delightful moments delving into the lives and customs of Bulgarians residing in Greece, discussing their experiences, progress, and, most significantly, their schools. This marks a significant stride for the Bulgarian diaspora, as it ensures the preservation of their Bulgarian heritage and roots.
The following day, on the 16th of March, a special delegation including Ms. Ani Hristova, Mrs. Svetlana Bozhilova and her family, Mrs. Dessislava Petrova from the Rotary Club Sofia-Serdika, Mr. Hristo Georgiev from the Rotary Club Gorna Banya, and Mr. Anton Markov, Consul General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Thessaloniki, visited the renowned “St. Ivan Rilski” school in Kavala.
Once again, we were warmly received and given an insightful tour of each classroom, with detailed explanations on the school’s development, sponsors, and contributions.
As the 17th of March is a non-working day in Greece, dedicated to the celebration of Clean Monday, the first day of Lent, the school had a reduced number of students. Nonetheless, we were greeted by 11 remarkable children, divided into 3 age groups. The dedication of their teachers was truly inspiring, with one teacher commuting all the way from Gotse Delchev city in Bulgaria to educate these young minds.
A touching surprise awaited us as the children serenaded us with “Visoki sini planini,” a heartfelt song celebrating the beauty of Bulgaria. It was a moment that touched us deeply.
“High, blue mountains,
rivers and golden plains,
a sky softer than silk,
this is my homeland!”
We donate numerous of books and the best thing is that the Project is sustainable and we can do more and more donations there.
The day culminated in group photographs, capturing the warmth, smiles, and palpable happiness that filled the air, with the children radiating the most joy.
In addition to this heartwarming encounter, Kavala itself boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Nestled along the azure shores of the Aegean Sea, this enchanting city invites visitors to explore its ancient Roman aqueduct, the imposing Byzantine fortress of Kavala, and the vibrant Panagia district with its charming old town.
Join us as we celebrate the vibrant Bulgarian culture thriving in the idyllic setting of Kavala, Greece – a testament to resilience, progress, and the enduring spirit of community.
Thank to all sponsors, who contributed:
- Rotary Club Sofia International
- Rotary Club Kifissia-Kastri
- Rotary Club Sofia-Serdika
- Rotary Club Gorna Banya
- Samokov Rotary Club
- Rotary Club Sofia
- Rotary Club Sofia City
- Ani Hristova
- Desislava Petrova
- Hristo Georgiev
- Svetlana Bozhilova
- Stamen Tasev
- Elisaveta Lacina
- Hristina Malchevska
- “Sunray” Publishing House
- Gergana Rusinova
- Rusexim Publishing House
- Fanny Mihailova
- Rostilslav Nachev
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March 17th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
We are delighted to share the highlights from our recent gathering, the 20th regular meeting held at the Hilton Sofia. It was an unforgettable occasion where we had the pleasure of warmly welcoming two remarkable individuals into our Rotary family: Dr. Markus Kroeger and Mrs. Gergana Taseva. Their enthusiasm for embracing the spirit of service above self, filled us with joy, and we eagerly anticipate the strong friendships that will undoubtedly blossom.
During this gathering, we had the privilege of learning about Dr. Markus Kroeger’s impactful initiatives as the CEO of Commerzbank in Bulgaria. His team’s dedication to enhancing educational opportunities for students in Bulgaria, particularly through collaborations with high schools and professional technical schools in Plovdiv and Svoge, is truly commendable. By integrating dual education years into their programs, they are paving the way for students to embark on their professional journeys early, equipping them to thrive on the global stage. We were deeply inspired by their projects and look forward to witnessing their continued success. For those interested in learning more or contributing to these endeavors, please do not hesitate to reach out, and we will gladly facilitate connections with Dr. Kroeger.
Our evening commenced with President Mr. Grant Dale sharing exciting updates about upcoming events. Next week, we eagerly anticipate the presentation by the ‘Bulgaria Wants You’ team. Additionally, we extend a gentle reminder and a call to action about our upcoming Fund-raising event on the 15th of May. The funds raised will support two significant projects: the Med-Bul Project, aiding hospitals in Bulgaria with necessary equipment, and the construction of a photovoltaic plant for the Rehabilitation Center for Children recovering from Oncohematological diseases. Tickets for this event are now available, and we encourage all those passionate about supporting noble causes and networking within our inspiring Rotary community to join us.
Ticket details are as follows:
- Guests and Rotarians: 80 BGN
- Rotaractors: 50 BGN
To secure your tickets, please make the payment to our donation account:
- IBAN: BG49STSA93000027355924
- BIC: STSABGSF
- Beneficiary: Rotary Club Sofia International
- Note: Please add in the description: “15 May Gala” and include the names of the guests
Furthermore, we are thrilled to announce a special hybrid meeting on the 7th of May, where we will be honored by the presence of the President of Rotary International, Mr. Gordon R. McInally, alongside our friends from the Rotary Club of Cubao – Quezon City, in the Philippines. We eagerly anticipate the participation of all club members in this momentous event.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who generously donated books for the establishment of a new Bulgarian Library at the School of Kavala in Greece, together with our twin club, Rotary Club Kifissia-Kastri. Thanks to your contributions, several cars laden with books of diverse genres and authors are en route to support the local community.
As our official proceedings concluded, we transitioned into a delightful social hour, emphasizing the importance of these moments in exchanging ideas. We are eagerly counting down to our fund-raising event and express our gratitude to the Rotary Clubs that have extended invitations to support their initiatives. Together, we are empowered to create a brighter world for our communities and champion greater causes.
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March 2nd, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
We are delighted to share the highlights of our recent regular meeting held on February 28th at the Hilton Hotel Sofia. The warmth and camaraderie among our club members, coupled with exciting updates, left us filled with joy and anticipation.
Preparations for our upcoming fundraising event on May 15th at the National Museum of History took center stage during the discussion. The evening will kick off with a museum tour at 18:30, followed by the main event at 19:00. We are proud to collaborate with esteemed partners, Rotary Club Sofia-Vitosha and Rotary Club Gorna Banya, to ensure the success of this memorable event.
Ticket details are as follows:
- Guests and Rotarians: 80 BGN
- Rotaractors: 50 BGN
To secure your tickets, please make the payment to our donation account:
- IBAN: BG49STSA93000027355924
- BIC: STSABGSF
- Beneficiary: Rotary Club Sofia International
- Note: Please add in the description: “15 May Gala” and include the names of the guests.
Funds raised at the event will support our Med-Bul Project, facilitating the supply of equipment to hospitals in Bulgaria, and the construction of a photovoltaic plant for the Rehabilitation Center for Children recovering from Oncohematological diseases.
In addition to gala preparations, updates were shared on two significant projects. The first involves a healthcare initiative, and the second is our collaboration with the Rotary Club Kifsissia-Kastri, supporting a library for the School of Kavala, Greece, with Bulgarian books. Book donations, especially for children aged 4-18, are welcome.
The meeting commenced with a warm welcome from our President, Mr. Grant Dale, and a reminder of our mission through the Rotary Four-Way Test. Member Mr. Domagoj Stefan joined us online, sharing details about his recent art exhibition at the Croatian-Bulgarian Cultural Association. Mr. Stefan generously donated one of his grandfather’s paintings for our May 15th Gala Event.
Exciting news unfolded with the presentation of the ET4Care project by Nikolay Tzaribachev. Originating from Rotary Club Witten-Hohenstein in Germany, this initiative aims to develop chronic wound care teams in Bulgarian hospitals and medical centers. We extend an invitation to all interested individuals to contribute and join this impactful initiative.
Our meeting also featured a delightful recounting of the First Gastronomy Friendship Weekend, where Bulgarian and Greek Rotarians gathered near Drama, Volakas, Greece, fostering new friendships and shared causes.
We were honored to have Mr. Anastasios Christakakis, President of the Rotary Club of Alexandroupolis, join us online. The meeting concluded with an opportunity to support the Interact initiative for Sevda, a woman with multiple sclerosis, through the purchase of Bulgarian bracelets (Martenitsi) and homemade coconut soaps. These soaps were made by the benefactor, Sevda, who believes in contributing to the initiative.
As we eagerly anticipate our upcoming fundraising event, we are grateful for the invitations received from other Rotary Clubs in Bulgaria, presenting various well-thought-out events throughout the year. This spirit of collaboration and enthusiasm sets a positive tone for the start of this new year.
Join us in making a difference and spreading hope. We look forward to your support at our May 15th Gala Event.
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February 24th, 2024 - posted in News and Events.
On February 22, 2024, Ani Hristova and Grant Dale, representing the Rotary Club Sofia International, had the privilege of attending the inauguration of the art exhibition, “Each Painting – One Story.” This captivating showcase features the works of Croatian artists Zlatko Kackov and Asja Elezovic, organized by the Croatian-Bulgarian cultural association “Stjepan Jurinic.”
The exhibited paintings, adorned with motifs from various regions of the Republic of Croatia and captivating still-life compositions, tell unique and compelling stories. The venue, steeped in cultural richness, provided a perfect backdrop for this celebration of artistic expression.
Domagoj Stefan, Vice-president of the Croatian-Bulgarian cultural association, extended a warm welcome and expressed his support for potential collaborations between the association and Rotary Club Sofia International in the future.
In a gesture of goodwill and partnership, Domagoj gifted a painting, carefully chosen by the Rotarians, to be auctioned at their upcoming fundraising event. This generous contribution adds an exciting element to the club’s efforts and further strengthens the bond between the two organizations.
The event not only celebrated the beauty of art but also paved the way for exciting prospects of cultural exchange and partnership. Rotary Club Sofia International looks forward to exploring future projects that bridge artistic endeavors and foster deeper connections between communities.
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