During the "From Memory to the Future" event marking International Roma Day, we recognized the winners of the third edition of the "Roma in the 21st Century – Challenges and Opportunities" competition. Once again, the initiative brought together Roma and pro-Roma organizations working together for better access to education, active civic participation, and equal opportunities.
Students from various towns and cities across the country submitted essays and videos on topics such as identity, belonging, equality, and their vision of the world they want to live in.
Winners in the two categories
Essay category
- First prize – Essay topic: "Culture, History, Identities: Does Everyone Survive Alone or Do We Live Together?" — author Tonita Yosifova, recognized by writer Georgi Gospodinov
- Second prize – Essay topic: "Bulgaria in 2026: Outrage or Flowers and Roses" — author Zina Yosifova, recognized by writer Maria Kassimova-Moisset and actress Natalia Tsekova
- Third prize – Essay topic: "Culture, History, Identities: Does Everyone Survive Alone or Do We Live Together?" — author Denitsa Vasileva, recognized by Olga Malcheva from IKEA Bulgaria
- Special prize – Topic: "Bulgaria in 2026: Outrage or Flowers and Roses" — author Sasho Stefkov, recognized by the Swiss Ambassador to Bulgaria, H.E. Pierre Hagmann
Video category
- First prize – "Letter from 2040" — author David Georgiev, recognized by journalist Maria Yotova
- Second prize – "Living Together: Identity Is Not a Threat but a Bridge" — author Mihail Manev, recognized by journalist Irina Nedeva
- Third prize – "Roma Life: A String of Rises and Falls" — author Ralitsa Kolarova, recognized by Yoan Zemyarski from the HP Inc. Bulgaria team
- Special prize – "The World Is Changing Fast" — author Mario Lazarov, recognized by Nancy Schiller, President of the America for Bulgaria Foundation
Initiatives and competitions such as "Roma in the 21st Century – Challenges and Opportunities" are of key importance because they encourage students and young Roma to delve deeper into the study of their history, culture, and social issues. Through participation in creative initiatives, young people not only become acquainted with the rich heritage of the Roma people, but also develop critical thinking, learn to seek out and analyze historical facts and personal stories that affirm their identity, and connect them to their own lived experience. This process serves as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and social engagement.
We congratulate all the winners and thank all participants for their dedication, inspiration, and courage to be a voice for change!