We are an organization passionate about driving social progress through education, advocating for human rights, and tackling pressing global challenges. Get to know our dynamic team of individuals committed to positively impacting and transforming lives worldwide.
The members of our Managing Board are: Bistra Yakimova (Chairwoman), Nace Sapundjiev, Petya Yakimova.
Bistra Yakimova
Bistra is a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience in education, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise in teaching and working with people. In addition to her educational background, she is a talented travel writer and storyteller, embodiment practitioner, and possesses proven skills in entrepreneurship and team leadership, all of which enrich her role as the president of Zarika Association. Under her guidance, the organization thrives, capitalizing on her educational insights, project and people management experience, and entrepreneurial mindset to foster excellence and drive success.
Petya Yakimova
Petya harbored diverse interests from a young age, eager to explore many areas. She possessed an inherent curiosity, desiring to engage in various pursuits spanning sports, arts, and sciences. With an adventurous spirit, Petya delved into countless dance styles, ultimately finding her place within the vibrant boogie-woogie community. Her dedication extended beyond the dance floor as she frequently extended a helping hand, volunteering her time to organize events and support charitable causes. As one of the co-founders of the Zarika Association, Petya consistently strives to enhance our events, infusing them with the latest trends in embodiment and dance, making them more impactful and memorable.
Rozalina Zlatkova
Rozalina is a multifaceted individual with a diverse range of interests and experiences. She has a background in clothing design, along with 20 years of leadership experience in the financial services sector. Skilled in computer-based art tools and a lover of music and dance, she also actively engages in the NGO sector. As a co-chairwoman and member of the management board for the Association for Bulgarian family values, traditions, and culture “Bulgarche,” she contributes to their educational publication for children and young people while organizing national contests and radio plays. Rosalina’s commitment to personal growth is evident through her completion of various trainings and courses, and she is also a co-founder of Zarika Association.
Nace Sapundjiev
Nace, an experienced leader and passionate travel photographer, often takes part in or leads various corporate social responsibility projects, empowering young people and NGOs to reach their full potential. His exceptional superpower lies in his ability to perceive and highlight the positive aspects of individuals, places, and activities he engages in, adding a unique perspective to his work. Additionally, Nace’s exceptional technological skills empower him and Zarika Association to embrace digital transformation, utilizing advanced tools and techniques to drive innovation and achieve remarkable results in various domains.
Anna Dineva
Anna is a passionate youth educator and dedicated activist with over 6 years of invaluable experience in collaborating with various non-governmental organizations. Her commitment to fostering the growth of high school students is evident in her multifaceted roles within the sector. At the heart of her mission lies a profound dedication to addressing pressing societal issues, and she has poured her expertise in conducting impactful training sessions and facilitating discussions on crucial topics such as gender equality, privilege, and mentorship. With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education, Anna continues to be a driving force in shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.
Blagovesta Kotselova
Blagovesta graduated from a music class and although her love for music dates back to elementary school, she rediscovered herself in the world of healthy eating. A person of art, connoisseur of quality and delicious food, she is a lover of fitness and sports. When she is not studying, she likes to read romance novels, draw with crayons, make expeditions to her grandmother’s garden and then cook the most nourishing meals. She hosts the second season of Zarika Podcast, where she talks about personal development and how every soul is important and meaningful.
Mariana Ivanova
Mariana Ivanova is dedicated to exploring and sharing more than 15 years of experience at the crossroads of technology, education, movement, consciousness, and spirituality. With a deep understanding of various embodiment practices, and healing modalities, she guides individuals on their journeys of self-discovery. Her work is characterized by a warm, empathetic, and intuitive approach. As a channeling poet, she writes divine messages to connect to their inner wisdom and achieve a balanced and harmonious life. As a constellation facilitator, she has the power to use different systemic modalities to bring the invisible dynamics visible to the surface so new roads ahead can be born. She believes we came to evolve humanity, to reconnect to nature while having fun following the unfolding of our own inner genius.
Zarika is actively involved in European programmes such as Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), designing and implementing youth exchanges, training courses, partnerships, and solidarity projects.
Zarika Association is a member of:
