My interest in STEM developed naturally through my background in engineering, mathematics and information technology. Over the years, I became increasingly interested in combining theoretical knowledge with practical activities that allow students to experiment, design, program and solve real-world problems. Educational robotics, LEGO-based projects, programming and digital technologies strengthened this interest and became an important part of my teaching practice. In 2020, I won a national competition in Bulgaria as a STEM teacher, and I was also honored as Bulgaria’s Teacher of the Year—receiving awards in both 2020 and 2024.
Your organization field and mission:
Professional Technical High School – Burgas provides vocational and general education, preparing students for successful professional realization and further studies. Its mission is to combine high-quality education with practical skills, modern technologies, STEM learning and innovation, while supporting students in developing digital, technical, social and entrepreneurial competences.
Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / organization:
I am a Senior Teacher of Mathematics and Information Technology at Professional Technical High School – Burgas. My work combines classroom teaching with STEM education, educational robotics, digital technologies and project-based learning. I also participate in the development and implementation of innovative educational activities, STEM projects, extracurricular initiatives and robotics competitions, with a strong focus on developing students’ problem-solving, teamwork and digital skills. I am an ambassador for Lego robotics competitions in Bulgaria.
Your interest in STEM
My first strong role models in STEM emerged in 2020, when I won first place in a national STEM competition in Bulgaria. At that time, I was deeply inspired by educators and professionals who demonstrated how technology, creativity and practical learning can transform education. Over the years, I have also had the opportunity to become a role model myself through my own achievements in STEM education. I have developed and implemented numerous STEM projects, shared good practices with students and colleagues, and published many articles presenting my educational projects and experience at international level. Today, my role models continue to be innovative educators, engineers, researchers and women in STEM who inspire others through knowledge, persistence, creativity and meaningful professional contribution.
Your studies
My main strengths during my studies were persistence, curiosity and a strong interest in mathematics, engineering and technology. One of the challenges was combining demanding academic requirements with the need to continuously adapt to new technologies and methods. At the same time, every new qualification created opportunities for professional development, interdisciplinary learning and the integration of new approaches into education. The main challenge has always been keeping pace with the rapid development of technology while maintaining a strong pedagogical focus.
Do not be afraid of mathematics, technology or engineering because they are fields where creativity, logical thinking and imagination work together. Believe in your abilities, ask questions, experiment and continue learning even when something seems difficult at first. Choose a field that genuinely interests you and look for opportunities to apply your knowledge in practice.
You at work
Our school supports inclusive education, equal access to learning opportunities and the development of every student according to their individual abilities. Through STEM activities, robotics, digital projects and teamwork, students are encouraged to participate actively regardless of gender, background or previous experience. We also promote collaboration, responsible use of technology and educational activities connected with sustainability and real-world challenges.
I am most proud of creating learning experiences in which students become active participants rather than passive learners. Through STEM projects, LEGO robotics, programming and participation in robotics competitions, I have seen students develop confidence, teamwork, problem-solving and algorithmic thinking. I am also proud of contributing to innovative educational initiatives and of sharing my experience with other educators through projects, conferences and professional forums.
Your point of view
Technology can empower women by providing access to education, professional development, flexible working opportunities, entrepreneurship and international networks. Digital skills also give women greater independence and the ability to create, communicate and participate actively in sectors that are shaping the future.
Be confident in your knowledge and do not allow stereotypes to define what you can achieve. Continue developing your digital and professional skills, work on real projects, learn from mistakes and seek collaboration with people who encourage your growth. In education and technology, continuous learning is one of the strongest professional advantages.
By 2030, I would like to see equal access to high-quality STEM and digital education for all students, greater participation of girls and women in technology and engineering, and learning environments where diversity and inclusion are recognized as strengths. I would also like schools and technology organizations to collaborate more closely in order to create more practical opportunities for young people.
To finish with
My core values are responsibility, integrity, continuous learning, respect, collaboration and commitment to education. I believe that knowledge gains its greatest value when it is shared and when it creates opportunities for others to grow.
My future professional challenge is to continue developing innovative approaches that connect mathematics, information technology, robotics and STEM education. I also want to expand my work in teacher collaboration, educational projects and the development of learning environments where technology supports creativity, practical skills and meaningful learning.
By 2030, I hope to have expanded my contribution to STEM education, educational robotics and the professional development of teachers, both at school level and within the wider educational community. I would like to participate in more national and international projects, share good practices with other educators, and contribute to initiatives that encourage young people, especially girls, to build confidence and take advantage of opportunities in STEM and technology.
The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : https://codeweek.eu/