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Training on “Engaging with Public Institutions. Critical Thinking and Disinformation”

28/06/2026

Over the course of several days, we had the pleasure of delivering a training program for young people from Kardzhali, dedicated to the topics of “Engaging with Public Institutions” and “Critical Thinking and Disinformation.”

During the training, participants developed both knowledge and practical skills for effective communication with public institutions, active civic engagement, and the critical evaluation of information—essential competencies for active and responsible young citizens. Through role-playing activities, discussions, and group work, they explored how local and national institutions function, as well as the nature of disinformation and its impact on society.

The training was part of the project “Youth Dialogue: The Voice of Kardzhali,” implemented by Omega Association with the financial support of the Erasmus+ Programme through the Human Resource Development Centre.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Veselina Yurukova, Chair of Omega Association, for the invitation and for the trust she has placed in us throughout all these years. Special thanks also go to Marina Dimova, a teacher at Hristo Botev Foreign Language High School, who consistently supports young people in their personal and professional development. We are also grateful to all the participants for their enthusiasm, motivation, and inspiring ideas! Together, we are empowering young people, amplifying their voices, and encouraging their active participation in public life.

Today, we would like to introduce you to Miroslav from the city of Ruse—an inspiring young man who earned a scholarship for a driving course through our “Skills for the Future” program.

25/06/2026

After years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, Miroslav graduated from high school with top honors. A new chapter now begins as he embarks on his university journey, studying Computer Systems and Technologies and Artificial Intelligence. What stands out most is his determination to keep learning, growing, and pursuing his goals with confidence and courage.

At the Ignatovi Family Foundation and the Garden of Cognition Foundation, it is a true privilege to support young people like Miroslav—talented, ambitious, and committed to building a bright future.

We believe this is only the beginning of a successful journey.

We wish him good health, endless inspiration, many dreams come true, and countless moments to be proud of.

And very soon—we hope—his long-awaited driver’s license.

Good luck, Miroslav! We are cheering you on every step of the way!

We are delighted to introduce Nadya, one of our 2026 scholarship recipients!

15/06/2026

Nadya is from the city of Dobrich and is a wonderful example of a determined young person who successfully balances education and sports. She is hardworking, disciplined, and firmly believes that with dedication and perseverance, every dream can become a reality.

This year, Nadya was admitted to the University of Ruse, where she will study Social Work. Through this field of study, she will have the opportunity to support people in need and contribute to building a more compassionate and inclusive society. She chose this path because of her genuine desire to help others and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need care, understanding, and support.

Alongside her studies, sport has always been an important part of Nadya’s life. She is an active track and field athlete and has won numerous medals and awards over the years. Athletics has taught her discipline, perseverance, responsibility, and the drive for continuous improvement—qualities that have helped her succeed both on the track and in the classroom. Every one of her sporting achievements is the result of hard work, dedicated training, and strong determination. Nadya is living proof that when you stay motivated and never give up, success will follow.

Through the “Support for the Future: Education, Courses, and Internships for Young People” program, Nadya will receive financial support over the coming years, enabling her to continue her education with confidence while further developing her academic, professional, and personal potential.

The Ignatovi Family Foundation and the Garden of Cognition Foundation are proud to support young people like Nadya—talented, ambitious, and inspiring through their commitment, determination, and passion for growth.

We wish Nadya good health, many successful academic years, new sporting achievements, and the confidence to pursue her dreams. May she always keep her motivation, energy, and determination to succeed!

We are delighted to introduce Gergana, one of our 2026 scholarship recipients!

10/06/2026

Gergana is from the village of Trud and is a wonderful example of a young person who pursues her interests with dedication, perseverance, and a genuine passion for her chosen profession. She is ambitious, responsible, and motivated to grow in a field that plays a vital role in the future of agriculture. Gergana is currently studying Agronomy – Crop Production at the Agricultural University of Plovdiv. From an early age, she developed a strong interest in nature, landscaping, and working with the land. She graduated from the Technical School of Construction with a specialization in Landscape Construction and Landscaping, where she refined her creativity, attention to detail, and design skills. One of Gergana’s favorite hobbies is drawing, which allows her to combine precision, creativity, and an eye for beauty—qualities that she also brings to her academic studies.

Through the “Support for the Future: Education, Courses, and Internships for Young People” program, Gergana will receive financial support over the coming years, enabling her to continue her education with confidence and further develop her potential in her chosen professional field. The Ignatovi Family Foundation and the Garden of Cognition Foundation are proud to support young people like Gergana—talented, motivated, and determined to build a bright future. We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the Maritsa Municipality for its support and belief in our educational programs. We wish Gergana good health, endless inspiration, successful academic years, and the courage to pursue her dreams. May her passion for nature and learning continue to guide her toward many future achievements!

International Children’s Day Surprises: Vocational Schools in Kuklen and Perushtitsa

06/06/2026

To celebrate International Children’s Day, we had the pleasure of surprising students from the Vocational High School of Agriculture – Kuklen and the Hristo Botev Vocational High School of Viticulture and Winemaking – Perushtitsa with special gifts.

For the students, it was a wonderful surprise filled with smiles, excitement, and joy. We are delighted to have been part of their celebration and to help create another cherished memory.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Champions Factory for their generous support and partnership, which made this initiative possible!

We are delighted to introduce Bisera, one of our 2026 scholarship recipients!

04/06/2026

Bisera is from the village of Trud. She is an ambitious, determined, and highly motivated young woman who is not afraid to pursue her goals with confidence. Through her perseverance, responsibility, and commitment to personal growth, she is a wonderful example of a young person investing in her education and future.

Bisera has been admitted to the Academy of National and Information Security, where she will study Security and Criminal Psychology—a field that requires a strong sense of responsibility, analytical thinking, and a genuine commitment to serving society.

Through the “Support for the Future: Education, Courses, and Internships for Young People” program, Bisera will receive financial support that will enable her to continue her education with confidence and further develop her potential in her chosen professional field.

The Garden of Cognition Foundation and the Ignatovi Family Foundation are proud to support young people like Bisera—talented, motivated, and determined to build a bright future.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Maritsa Municipality for its continued support and belief in our educational programs.

We wish Bisera good health, endless inspiration, confidence, and every success as she works toward achieving her dreams!

The first scholarship recipient for 2026!

01/06/2026

On this special day dedicated to the dreams, talents, and future of children and young people, we are delighted to announce the first 2026 scholarship recipients of our “Support for the Future: Education, Courses, and Internships for Young People” program!

We are proud to introduce Donika, one of our first scholarship recipients for this year!

Donika is from the village of Trud. She is an outstanding university student with excellent academic results, remarkable intelligence, and a wide range of interests. Her determination, perseverance, and passion for personal growth make her an inspiring example of a young person who is confidently pursuing her dreams.

Over the coming years, Donika will receive financial support through the program to continue her studies in Journalism at St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo. There, she will have the opportunity to further develop her knowledge, skills, and talent in her chosen field.

The mission of the Garden of Cognition Foundation and the Ignatovi Family Foundation is to support talented and motivated young people who demonstrate through their hard work, dedication, and ambition that the future is in good hands.

We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the Maritsa Municipality for its continued support and belief in our educational programs.

We wish Donika good health, endless inspiration, courage, and every success as she continues her journey toward achieving her dreams!

Three young women from Trud awarded university scholarships through a joint initiative of the Ignatovi Family Foundation and the Garden of Knowledge Foundation

21/05/2026

Three young women from the village of Trud have been awarded university scholarships through the “Support for the Future: Education, Courses, and Internships for Young People” program, implemented by the Ignatovi Family Foundation and the Garden of Cognition Foundation.

For the past several years, the two foundations have been working together to improve opportunities in smaller communities by expanding access to quality education for children and young people with limited resources.

Among the scholarship recipients are Donika, who will study Journalism at St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo; Gergana, who is continuing her studies in Agronomy at the Agricultural University of Plovdiv; and Bisera, who has been admitted to the Academy of National and Information Security in Plovdiv, where she will study Security and Criminal Psychology.

The total financial support awarded to the three students from Trud amounts to €8,000. By the end of next month, three more young people from the villages of Rogosh and Zhelyazno are expected to sign scholarship agreements to support their undergraduate studies at universities in Plovdiv.

In addition to financial assistance, all scholarship recipients are enrolled in a long-term mentoring program designed to support their personal and professional development. Inspired by their stories, the Garden of Cognition Foundation is also developing the guide “Inner Compass: The Journey to Yourself,” which aims to become a valuable resource for young people as they navigate their educational and personal journeys.

As part of this partnership, a series of motivational meetings is being organized to foster trust, provide guidance, and encourage the personal growth of participating students.

The partnership between the Maritsa Municipality, the Garden of Cognition Foundation, and the Ignatovi Family Foundation marks the beginning of a long-term and sustainable collaboration focused on strengthening youth policies and creating greater opportunities for future generations.

During the past year, through the “Support for the Future: Education, Courses, and Internships for Young People” program, the two foundations awarded university scholarships to nine young people from across Bulgaria, with a total value of BGN 70,400. This year, the program is expected to expand to include 15 additional scholarship recipients, helping even more young people pursue their educational goals and unlock their full potential.

“Youth Dialogue: The Voice of Kardzhali” project.

18/05/2026

The past few days at the Plovdiv Youth Centre were filled with inspiration, meaningful learning, and unforgettable experiences. At the invitation of our partners from the Omega Association, we had the pleasure of delivering a series of training sessions as part of the “Youth Dialogue: The Voice of Kardzhali“ project.

Participants took part in interactive workshops, role-playing activities, and group discussions covering topics such as Engaging with Public Institutions, Establishing a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), and Critical Thinking and Disinformation. Through these activities, the young people strengthened their knowledge and practical skills, exchanged ideas, and gained confidence in becoming active participants in civic and community life.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Ms. Veselina Yurukova, Chair of the Omega Association, for the opportunity and the trust she has placed in us, and to Ms. Marina Dimova, Civic Education teacher, for our many years of successful collaboration and for working together on meaningful initiatives and projects.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to all the young participants for their enthusiasm, positive energy, and motivation. Your engagement made these training sessions truly inspiring.

We are already looking forward to our next opportunity to learn, grow, and create a positive impact together.

The project is implemented by the Omega Association and is funded by the Erasmus+ Programme.

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