Mario Stoyanov
Social worker “House of opportunity” Sofia – Druzhba district
My professional career started as an intern in an NGO working with prevention of children at risk. Subsequently, I participated in several volunteer initiatives of different NGOs.
Then I started an internship at a private mental health centre. The internship was focused in two ways on developing emotional and social intelligence in children and in gaining personal experience in individual and group counseling, lasting in individual counseling for 2yrs and in group counseling for almost 4yrs.
While studying I started work related to preschool children. Subsequently I started working in a private education centre as a teacher of primary school children.
I then became part of the team at an addiction treatment center. In this job I had the opportunity to conduct individual and group counseling under the supervision of the treatment center manager. Here I learned that anyone can walk the path to change and inspire others to follow.
In 2023, I joined the great team at FSCI.
The dedication of my fellow team members is truly contagious. I am here because I believe in personal stories. I believe that everyone is entitled to a chance and an opportunity to find their path and the things that make them happy without being rejected and isolated because of their past. I can be of help to a young person to “write their story”.
Kirilka Shushkova
My professional career has been centred on working with children, young people and families, as well as in social services and public administration. I have worked as a social worker and have also held positions at the National Revenue Agency and the National Health Insurance Fund, where I gained valuable experience in working with both citizens and public institutions.
I currently work as a residential school educator, supporting young people in their daily lives and personal development. I believe that a calm, trustworthy presence and a safe environment are essential for every young person to thrive.
I hold Master’s degrees in Economics of the Social and Cultural Sector and Economics and Management of Cooperatives, as well as a teaching qualification in Economics.
In my free time, I enjoy reading and spending time in nature.
I am motivated by the belief that every child and young person deserves understanding, support and the opportunity to fulfil their potential. This is what inspires me to be part of the team at the Foundation for Social Change and Inclusion.
Iliyana Ivanova
My professional journey began as a psychologist in a low-threshold centre supporting people affected by addiction. My work included individual and group counselling, advocacy, liaison with public institutions, and outreach work in the community.
I hold a Master’s degree in Psychology and have completed further training in family counselling, psychodrama, and motivational interviewing.
I believe that every person deserves to be heard, respected, and treated with dignity.
I joined the Foundation for Social Change and Inclusion three months ago, and I am delighted to have found colleagues who share my values and approach to supporting people. Working with young people gives me a real sense of purpose. As they begin building their independent lives, I am grateful to be part of the team that stands beside them and supports them along the way.
