Past TEDx event
TEDxIlinden
Why Do I Choose Bulgaria?
Speakers
Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.
Algara Mihalkova
Algara Mihalkova is an actress and another strong artistic voice in this year’s TEDxIlinden edition. Her participation promises an emotional and personal story about the journey, the stage, and the reasons to call a place home. A young actress making confident steps toward the stage and screen, Algara is currently studying at Lyuben Groys Theatre College, where she is developing her talent and shaping her artistic voice. With energy, sensitivity, and dedication, she is part of a new generation of artists ready to leave their mark.
Borisa Sarafova
Borisa Sarafova is an actress who brings artistic sensitivity and a deeply personal perspective to the TEDxIlinden stage. Her presence promises a story about the inner journey, the stage, and the choice to grow and express herself here. Borisa graduated from NATFA in the class of Prof. Stefan Danailov and is part of the young generation of actors at the Ivan Radoev Drama Theatre in Pleven. She is also the creator of original artistic projects, including her first one-woman show, "No, Thank You!", dedicated to the world behind the scenes and the people who remain invisible to the audience.
Kalina Borisova
Kalina Borisova is a marketing professional and part of a new generation of people working with ideas, communication, and influence. She contributes to the TEDxIlinden conversation with a perspective on the modern environment, the choice of direction, and the creation of value in Bulgaria. Having grown up across borders - in four countries on three different continents, she brings an international perspective shaped by movement, culture, and curiosity. With a background in history and marketing, she was drawn back to her homeland by a deep connection to culture, arriving with both an awareness of the challenges and a strong sense of hope.
Kristian Yordanov
Kristian Yordanov is a sales manager who brings a business perspective to the TEDxIlinden theme. His profile highlights the practical dimensions of development, leadership, and the opportunities one chooses to create here. Driven by ideas, purpose, and the desire to create value in the place where he lives and works, Kristian combines a clear direction with a personal mission to develop and inspire the people around him. He believes that success happens when vision meets action.
Lora Karamfilova
Lora Karamfilova is a journalist with a thoughtful public and professional perspective on belonging, meaning, and personal choice. With more than 10 years of experience in Bulgarian media, Lora focuses on international news, communications, and analysis. She holds a degree in Political Communication from the University of Amsterdam. With a strong sense for important topics, she makes complex issues understandable and adds meaning to the conversations we have as a society in Bulgaria.
Lyubomira Karapancheva
Lyubomira Karapancheva is a communications specialist who brings a professional perspective on how we speak about values, choices, and social direction. Having grown up in Bulgaria, Lyubomira pursued higher education in the Netherlands in the fields of communications and business. Her path has taken her through diverse professional experiences - from teaching Russian and interviewing prospective students for admissions, to interning at international companies and building websites for start-ups. With a strong connection to her roots, she sees Bulgaria as the place where she wants to live, grow, and develop her professional path.
Metodi Dimitrov
Metodi Dimitrov is a Bulgarian entrepreneur and technologist specializing in artificial intelligence and robotics. He is co-founder of RB Labs, a Geneva-based AI and robotics company, and is associated with the development of the humanoid robot “Robert the Robot.” Through his work, Metodi explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, humanoid robotics, and human-centered technology. Robert has been presented as the first Bulgarian full-size humanoid robot and has appeared at international technology events, including the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva.
Neviana Vladinova
Neviana Vladinova is Vice President of the Bulgarian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation and one of the most recognizable names in Bulgarian rhythmic gymnastics. An Olympic finalist and World Championship medalist, she is known for her discipline, mental strength, and powerful presence on the carpet. After the end of her competitive career, she remained deeply connected to the sport, becoming one of the voices shaping its future in Bulgaria. At TEDxIlinden, Neviana brings a strong perspective on discipline, choice, and the path to success when that path is connected to Bulgaria.
Ruslan Dragomanov
Ruslan Dragomanov is a sports journalist who brings the experience of someone who tells stories of effort, victory and human character. His participation in TEDxIlinden promises a dynamic and recognizable perspective on choice and motivation. Raised in Bulgaria, Ruslan chose to pursue higher education in the Netherlands and the Czech Republic in the fields of media and journalism. Despite his international contacts and opportunities, he made a conscious decision to develop his career in Bulgaria. He works in social media content, sports marketing, and football commentary, and has been involved in projects and campaigns related to sports.
Stefan Artamontzev
Stefan Artamontzev is an artist and art director whose work moves between images, messages, and ideas. His participation in TEDxIlinden brings a strong focus on creation, aesthetics, and the role of creativity in shaping identity and direction. Stefan creates exhibitions, books, catalogues, and digital projects both in Bulgaria and abroad, combining creativity, vision, and a touch of boldness.
Tsanko Tsankov
Tsanko Tsankov is a world champion in ice swimming and one of the most impressive names in the TEDxIlinden program. His story carries a powerful message about willpower, endurance, pushing limits, and the strength of the human spirit. A world record holder in open-water swimming and recipient of numerous national and international awards, Tsanko is among the most remarkable names in Bulgarian swimming. Through his endurance, discipline, and determination, he inspires thousands of people to explore the limits of their own potential. Beyond sport, he is also a dedicated ambassador of physical activity and a healthy lifestyle in Bulgaria.
Vladimir Georgiev
Vladimir Georgiev is a boxing world champion and one of the strong sports voices in the TEDxIlinden program. His story is one of character, perseverance, and the ability to withstand pressure - qualities that often stand behind major life choices. A Bulgarian boxing champion with achievements on both the national and international stage, Vladimir is driven by discipline, ambition, and a clear vision for development. His journey shows how persistence and belief can turn ambition into real results and inspiration for others.
