And the key to it is 100% dedication

Vanya Deyanova was born in 1965. She graduated from Sofia Technical University with a Major in "Robotics" and later obtained a Master's degree from the University of National and World Economy in "Economics and Business Management". She worked in the field of international trade and finance. Entrepreneur and investor with several successful projects. 

1. Mrs. Deyanova, more and more women are occupying management positions, managing corporations and their own companies. What is your key to success?
It is very important to define what a person defines as professional success. To me, it is the long-term effort, work, and energy that we put in bringing us satisfaction at the end of the workday, at the end of the year. Public welfare depends on this level of satisfaction, regardless of social and economic status. For me, the driving force is the search for persistence, continuous improvement, and strict work discipline. I have always set high professional goals and have put in strict planning of my time and efforts. Without a clear plan, we cannot achieve anything. Without putting in all your heart and energy, there is no way such a plan can be accomplished. Satisfaction comes when we achieve the result we sought and accomplished. This model must be passed on to young people. The key to success is 100% dedication.

2. Does the political and economic situation in Bulgaria allow for successful business development?
Over the past 30 years, we have witnessed significant economic, social, and political transformations that have created a challenging environment for business. The dynamics we observe business environment are great and require a more serious professional preparation for investors and managers. I can safely say that in the last 10 years the trend was an improvement of the business environment, despite the setbacks in 2021. Doing business has improved significantly since Bulgaria joined the EU, which gave many development opportunities for start-ups and innovative enterprises. The main thing is that those with the potential for business with high added value stay in Bulgaria. In short, it's difficult, and it's getting better, but the challenges are many.

3. What do you think Bulgaria needs to develop economically?
There is a need for stability, which means predictability and consistency of the political environment, planning and financial instruments for businesses with high added value, and special care for start-ups, giving a chance for young entrepreneurs with potential. I can define this concern as easy access to financing for young entrepreneurs with valuable business models and ideas. A lot has been done in this direction, but it is necessary to develop the model and to become a real center for the young, those who are able and want to start a business.

4. You are a graduate of "Robotics" at the Technical University and you are certainly aware that technology is entering more and more into our everyday life. Are they well applied in business in Bulgaria and what does the future hold in your opinion?
Digitalization. That's the keyword. It is time for it to enter Bulgaria en masse because in Europe this cycle is very advanced and the key word there is "artificial intelligence". Both categories will bring many opportunities and challenges to the Business in Bulgaria. It is time to pay serious attention to these technological categories - "digitalization", "artificial intelligence", "blockchain", and "autonomous technological systems". It is no coincidence that Romania has several billion-dollar technology start-ups, it is time to create that environment in Bulgaria as well.

5. What are you most proud of professionally and personally?
I can safely say that I closed my professional path, from the definition of goals to their realization. I am proud to be satisfied with the results of my efforts. I am proud that for so many years I created and developed a wonderful team of specialists who stayed in Bulgaria. This brings satisfaction and motivation for the future. On a personal level, I am proud that, despite many sleepless nights, I have a great family and I am now a happy grandmother of a grandson.

6. What is your advice to young people in Bulgaria?
Plan, be driven, and seek professional development, as the emanation of knowledge is a skill. Do not give up. We are here to support you!