Each of them began the journey of motherhood at a young age, but they haven't given up on their personal ambitions. Behind the care for their child lie other important goals – education, a profession, and a better life. These inspiring stories show how young mothers keep dreaming and taking action, supported by the Nurse-Family Partnership program.
Nadya: With love for her daughter and a dream of a pastry shop
Nadya, 19, from Sofia, is the mother of five-month-old Silvana. Despite her young age, she describes her pregnancy as one of the most beautiful periods of her life. She joined the program in her fifth month of pregnancy and quickly formed a strong bond with her nurse, Sevda.
“It’s like we’re sisters, best friends. I can share everything with her, and I know she’ll understand and give me advice,” Nadya says.
She was most afraid of childbirth, but Sevda’s support gave her strength.
“Not my mother, not my father, not someone close – it was her. That meant the world to me.”
Nadya dreams of becoming a pastry chef and plans to finish her education when her daughter starts kindergarten.
Maria: From parenting questions to dental technician dreams
Maria, 22, lives in Sofia with her one-year-old daughter Katya. She’s been part of the program for over a year and a half, working with nurse Plamena.
“She had many worries around childbirth and the newborn stage… but with the help of the program’s materials and home visits, she became increasingly confident,” says Plamena.
Maria faced challenges with breastfeeding but succeeded with Plamena’s guidance. She finished secondary school and had been accepted to study dental technology, but plans were postponed.
“I hope one day I’ll be able to make it happen and be a role model for my daughter,” she says.
Atanaska: Responsible and forward-looking
Atanaska, 19, from Plovdiv, lives with her husband and their son Argir in the neighborhood of Sheker Mahala. She became a mother before turning 18, but is described by her nurse as a responsible and engaged parent. She eagerly follows all advice related to her child’s development and is determined to finish high school and find a job to provide a better future.
Sofka: Between motherhood and the classroom
Sofka, 18, lives in the Filipovtsi neighborhood of Sofia and cares for her 14-month-old daughter Snejana. She receives ongoing support from her nurse, Elena. Though she only reached 7th grade, she is now enrolled in part-time education at a vocational high school for textiles and leather. She also plans to attend vocational courses.
According to Elena, she is deeply engaged and curious about all parenting topics.
The stories of Nadya, Maria, Atanaska, and Sofka show us that dreams don’t end when motherhood begins early. These young women are taking their first steps as parents, while also walking toward their own development. Behind each story is a helping hand – from nurses and from those who believe that every young mother deserves a chance for a better life. These programs transform lives – made possible through donor support.
Support a Strong Start in Life
In Bulgaria, thousands of young mothers face pregnancy without proper care, parenting guidance, or support. Many are isolated, out of school, and unequipped to give their babies the healthy start they deserve. That’s where the Nurse-Family Partnership comes in.
Your donation empowers two generations at once!
