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(10 Nov) Rotary Connects the World: A Friendship Exchange Across Bulgaria (+GAL)
In late October and early November 2025, Bulgaria became the setting for one of the most inspiring Rotary events of the year, the Rotary Friendship Exchange between District 2482 from Bulgaria and District 7040 representing Canada and the United States. This flagship Rotary programme brought together Rotarians from different continents to build friendships, exchange professional experience, explore new project opportunities, and share cultural traditions. More than a formal exchange, the visit created deep personal connections based on trust, openness, and shared values.
Rotary Club Sofia International had the honor of serving as both the welcoming and departing host of this remarkable journey. The exchange officially began on 28 October 2025, when members of the club, together with students from Interact Club Sofia International at Meridian 22 School, warmly welcomed the guests from District 7040 at Sofia Airport. The visiting delegation included Linda Newton and Keith Lawton from the Rotary Club of Nepean Kanata in Ontario, Victoria and Kurt Pearson from the Rotary Club of Kingston in Ontario, and Mike Prais from the Rotary Club of Saranac Lake in New York.
After settling in and enjoying lunch, the guests were introduced to Sofia under the care of their local hosts, Mrs. Radka Stamenova and Mr. Serkan Halil, who created an atmosphere of comfort and hospitality from the very beginning. A guided walk through the city center allowed the visitors to discover Sofia’s character and charm. The day concluded with a dinner hosted by Mr. Domagoj Stefan, Secretary of Rotary Club Sofia International, at the Stjepan Jurić Croatian Bulgarian Cultural Center, where the guests experienced Bulgarian traditions through homemade dishes, local flavors, and warm conversation.
The following day highlighted the involvement of the younger Rotary generation. Members of Interact Club Sofia International led a thoughtfully prepared tour of Sofia’s historical landmarks, demonstrating impressive knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment. The programme continued with a visit to Meridian 22 Private School, where the guests attended classes and interacted directly with students, gaining insight into Bulgarian education and youth engagement.
Behind the success of the entire exchange stood strong leadership and dedicated teamwork. Ani Hristova, Vice President of Rotary Club Sofia International and Chair of the Rotary Friendship Exchange Subcommittee, led the project with vision, precision, and tireless commitment. She coordinated communication, logistics, and overall organization, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. Her work was supported by a committed team of Rotarians whose efforts were essential at every stage of the journey. Special recognition is due to Mrs. Iliyana Vakavchieva, whose contribution and hospitality during the visit to Dupnitsa played a key role in the success of the programme.
Over the course of the exchange, the guests traveled through eleven Bulgarian cities, each offering its own atmosphere, traditions, and Rotary spirit. From Sofia, the journey continued through Kyustendil, Dupnitsa, Blagoevgrad, Bansko, Samokov, Stara Zagora, Harmanli, Kazanlak, Veliko Tarnovo, and Gabrovo. In every location, local Rotary clubs and hosts welcomed the delegation with carefully prepared programmes, meetings, cultural experiences, and heartfelt hospitality. The visitors met local leaders, explored historical sites, enjoyed regional cuisine, and experienced Bulgaria’s natural beauty and cultural richness firsthand.
Each city added a new chapter to the story of the exchange. Whether through official meetings, educational initiatives, wine tourism, folklore, or unforgettable cultural performances, the hosts consistently demonstrated the strength of Rotary fellowship and the generosity of Bulgarian hospitality. The dedication shown by every club and individual host left a lasting impression on the international guests and strengthened the bonds between districts.
The exchange concluded where it began, in Sofia, with Rotary Club Sofia International once again welcoming the delegation for a heartfelt farewell. The circle was closed with gratitude, smiles, and the sense that lasting friendships had been formed.
The Rotary Friendship Exchange once again proved why it is such a powerful programme. It creates genuine international friendships, builds bridges between cultures, inspires future cooperation, and showcases the heart of the host country. Bulgaria presented itself with pride, warmth, and authenticity, leaving a strong mark on the global Rotary community.
This journey would not have been possible without the dedication of every host, club, and Rotarian involved. Their commitment, generosity, and belief in Rotary values were the true driving force behind this unforgettable experience.
Yours in Rotary,
Ani Hristova
Chair of the Rotary Friendship Exchange Subcommittee
On behalf of the visiting team from Rotary District 7040, I extend our deepest gratitude to all the Rotarians of District 2482 for the extraordinary hospitality and generosity you showed us during our visit. Your warmth and kindness have exemplified the very best of Rotary’s ideals, transforming what could have been a simple exchange into something truly meaningful. Through your commitment to Service Above Self, you have helped us forge lasting friendships, share our respective cultural traditions, and experience firsthand the power of Rotary to promote peace and understanding across borders. This exchange has been far more than a visit between districts—it has been a bridge between our countries, built one handshake, one conversation, and one shared meal at a time. You have reminded us that while governments may conduct diplomacy at the highest levels, it is these personal, individual connections that truly foster better relations between our nations and our peoples. We return home not just with memories, but with a renewed commitment to the values we share as Rotarians. Thank you for your outstanding generosity and for embodying the spirit of international fellowship that makes Rotary such a powerful force for good in the world.
Thank you for an unforgettable Rotary Friendship Exchange and for your beautiful reflection on our time in Bulgaria. We are deeply grateful to Ani, the Rotary Club Sofia International and to every club and host who welcomed us so warmly.
Through your generosity, we experienced Bulgaria in a way we never could have on our own, meeting wonderful Rotarians, learning about your rich culture and history, and visiting fascinating museums, landmarks and ancient sites. We were beyond spoiled! Most of all, we are thankful for the friendships formed along the way, which we will carry with us long after this journey.
Bulgaria will always hold a special place in our hearts. Thank you once again for your hospitality, kindness and true Rotary spirit.
Victoria and Kurt
We also look forward to the opportunity of hosting a team from Bulgaria in the near future!
What an amazing time we had! Thank you all for being such generous and welcoming hosts. We’re looking forward to your visit to our District.