The greatest wealth is to do what you love

Introduce yourself in a few sentences.

My name is Ivanina Parvanova-Stefanova and I am a leader with over 25 years of experience in international corporations. Over the years, I have managed teams, key business areas, transformational projects, and operational processes – always driven by the desire to create value and long-term results.
I believe in the power of authentic leadership – that which inspires, gives meaning and direction, and helps people unleash their potential.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood?

In my childhood, I dreamed of becoming a fairy – a symbol of the ability to change the world with a single movement. Over time, I realized that the “magic” in life does not happen through miracles, but through clear goals, focus, persistence, and discipline.
Today, when I work with organizations and teams in the process of development and transformation, I realize that in a sense I have realized that dream – only instead of a wand, I change through vision, experience, and commitment to results.

At what age did you earn your first money? Share an interesting story with us.

I earned my first money around the age of 15 when I started working on a freelance basis at the local radio station in my hometown. I was the host of a segment in a youth program. This experience left a lasting imprint on my professional path – I learned to seek value, to create content with a cause, and to give a voice to those who have something to say.

What are the main factors and examples that shape us as individuals at an early age and form our interests? What is your recipe for curiosity, sources, and wells of information and inspiration at this stage of our human development?

Family and friends are our first mirror – it is through them that we build our sense of values, boundaries, and possibilities. Every word of support, every book, or situation in which we are encouraged to express ourselves shapes our interests. At this stage, it is most valuable to have space for exploration and making mistakes – because that is how we begin to dream and create.

Has there been any significant difference in your perceptions in more mature age regarding what motivates you to do or not do something?

Yes, over the years my motivation has transformed – from striving for personal achievements to seeking and adding VALUE. At the beginning of my professional path, I was driven by the desire for success, recognition, and measurable results – something natural for the establishment phase.
Today, my motivation comes from the inner sense of purpose and contribution. I increasingly ask myself: “What is my contribution?”, “Do I inspire?”, “Do I leave a mark?” I am motivated by the opportunity to be helpful – through my leadership, through the example I set, and through the support I provide to the people I work with.

Whose decision was it where to pursue higher education and what to study? Was that decision correct?

The decision was mine, but – as often happens in youth – it was influenced by family expectations and the then notions of a “secure” and “prestigious” profession. I chose to study accounting and control at UNSS. Over time, I realized that this was not my field, but it gave me a number of skills that later proved important for my future roles. I believe that there is no unnecessary knowledge. Every choice – even if it seems like a deviation – adds a layer to our personality and prepares us for the next level. True development often begins precisely in these “deviations”.
Later, with a more conscious perspective, I chose to continue my education with an MBA in General Management at the University of Sheffield and the Oxford Executive Leadership Program at the University of Oxford, as well as numerous specialized trainings in the fields of sales, strategic management, and leadership.

Share more about your interests, knowledge, skills, and hobbies.

My professional experience is focused on commercial management, business development, and transformational leadership. I believe in strategic vision, but also in the need for flexibility – especially in a dynamic and competitive environment. My interests are directed towards supporting organizations striving for sustainable growth through value creation.
Outside of work, I find inspiration in reading, sports, and folk dances – sources of energy, balance, and connection with myself, as well as with the people around me.

Would you change your profession today and which areas of activity capture your interest?

With over 25 years of experience in commercial strategies, sustainable development, and organizational transformations, I believe that it is precisely in this area that I can be most useful. The accumulated experience allows me to support organizations in creating effective structures, strong teams, and long-term business sustainability.
I am increasingly attracted to formats where I can share knowledge and experience – mentoring, training, strategic consulting. I am interested in causes and initiatives with social value, in which business plays a role not only as a driver of results but also as a source of meaning, responsibility, and positive change.

They say that personal branding is everything that people say about you when you are not in the same room with them. What would you like to hear today?

Recently, I had the opportunity to receive many messages and calls from people I have worked with over the past years. Many thanked me for contributing to their positive change and personal growth. I also received recognition for difficult but purifyingly honest conversations that catalyzed important processes of growth.
The best thing I heard was that I add value and touch people. For me, that is the true meaning of the leadership role.

Emotional intelligence, adaptability, and flexibility, as well as our soft skills, are key conditions for success in recent years. How do you cope with the daily challenges of life to stay in good shape and mood?

For me, good shape is a function of physical and mental health. I exercise regularly, sleep well, and take time for the things that recharge me – hobbies, close people, moments of silence, and self-awareness.
Nature is one of my strongest sources of recovery – walks, time in greenery, or simply silence outdoors help me recharge. I am convinced that the most valuable things are often the simplest – as long as we can notice them.

What are the most important conclusions you have made so far about maintaining proper communication considering the different characters of the people you meet daily – colleagues, friends, loved ones?

My most important conclusion is that effective communication is one of the most complex skills because each person perceives the world through their own filters – built from personal experience, beliefs, and emotions. The same message can be understood in ten different ways.
Some people see risks and threats where others recognize clarity and opportunities – and this depends not on the information received, but on their internal mindset and prejudices.
Therefore, it is important for communication to be adapted according to the person opposite – with attention to their temperament, experience, and sensitivity. True communication is not just the transmission of information – it requires empathy, observation, and a desire to be understood, but also to understand.

What do you think about money? What is their influence on your life? What is your advice to people who often ask themselves questions related to money and how sufficient they are?

Money is a necessity – they provide comfort, security, and opportunities. But they do not bring satisfaction by themselves. True balance comes from the harmony between what we do and how we feel. If our work is devoid of meaning, if the environment is toxic, or if our life is in constant imbalance, no salary can compensate for that.
The greatest wealth is to do what you love – with commitment, energy, and meaning. When this is present, success – including financial – always comes.

What is the most valuable career advice you would give to people?

Be aware of where you are and where you want to go. Focus on the path, the long-term vision, and work for it every day – with persistence, discipline, and determination.
Consistency always pays off – do not trade your long-term plan for temporary convenience!

What would you like people to remember from this article?

That authenticity is strength, not weakness. That we do not need to be perfect to inspire. That every true transformation begins with the question “Who am I?” and manifests in actions that reflect that answer.