In September 2025, Soroptimist International is launching an exciting new project – the Soroptimist Balkan Leadership Academy (SBLA).
This initiative will be held for the first time in Bulgaria and will bring together young women from several Balkan countries for a week of training, mentoring, and intercultural exchange.
The project is part of Soroptimist’s mission to empower women and girls through education and opportunity.
When and Where?
The Soroptimist Balkan Leadership Academy will take place from September 1 to 7, 2025 at Lipite Spot, near the village of Tipchenitza, just 1.5 hours from Sofia.
The location was carefully chosen to combine easy accessibility with a peaceful natural setting, creating an ideal learning environment.
Who Can Participate?
SBLA 2025 is aimed at young women between 22 and 35 years old – young professionals who aspire to develop their leadership skills and contribute to positive change in their communities.
We expect 26 participants from Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Türkiye, and other Balkan countries.
What to Expect?
Over the course of 7 days, participants will experience an intensive program including:
- Lectures and workshops led by top experts in leadership, emotional health, finance, change management, and innovation
- Daily yoga sessions for mind and body balance
- Practical activities: a Bulgarian cuisine course, embroidery workshops, and wine-tasting tours
- A full-day excursion to some of Northwestern Bulgaria’s most famous landmarks (Ledenika Cave, Vratza Gorge, Cherepish Monastery, and more)
At the end of the academy, each participant will have the opportunity to create a personalized development plan with the support of a mentor.
Lecturers and Mentors
Our lecturers include leading specialists from Bulgaria and the Balkans, such as:
- Andrey Iliev, co-founder of Leader Academy
- Milena Popova, lecturer at Ruse University „Angel Kanchev“ and President of Soroptimist Union Bulgaria 2023–2024
- Ani Chakarova, owner of ADL logistics company and President of Soroptimist Union Bulgaria 2020–2022
- Petya Angelova, wine consultant and President of Soroptimist Union Bulgaria 2025–2026
- Nadezhda Vaneva, PR specialist and Communications Coordinator for Soroptimist Union Bulgaria
- Veselina Tsvetanova, finance expert and Chair of the Soroptimist Union Bulgaria Extension Committee
- Rosina Makedonska (Managing Change)
- Margarita Metodieva (Practical Finance Skills)
- Milka Alexandrova-Buchi (Business Styling)
- Svetlana Pushkarova (Emotional Health)
- Tihomira Tiha (Yoga Lessons)
Additionally, we will welcome international lecturers from Greece, Romania, and Türkiye.