I don't forget to smile, even in tense moments

Introduce yourself in a few sentences..

My name is Maya Pancheva – a political scientist, almost officially, a person with an affinity for words, ideas, and human stories. Over the years, I have combined analytical thinking with creativity, academic rigor with practicality, and depth with a smile. I believe that authenticity is the strongest currency in today's world.

What did you dream of becoming in your childhood years?

I dreamed of being a teacher or a journalist – to explain, to tell stories, to influence. Perhaps it's no coincidence that today I strive to combine both – albeit in a different, not so professional context. .

At what age did you earn your first money? Tell us an interesting story?

I earned my first money in my teenage years –I was a sales consultant in a cozy little shop. I remember how exciting it was to take responsibility and have something significant depend on me. This taught me that value comes not only from labor and rewards, but from the heart put into it.

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 of information, and inspiration at this stage of our human development?

Family, teachers, and the environment have a huge significance. In my case – my grandmother was my first teacher in empathy and perseverance. With her support and protection. My recipe for curiosity today is a whole symbiosis of listening, reading, and openness to the different, the different, and exploration. Inspiration lies in the little things.

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

Yes. I learned the hard way that approval should primarily come from the inner “I”. Today, I am motivated not so much by “success,” but by meaning. I now know that inner satisfaction is more important than external approval.

Whose decision was it where to pursue higher education and what to study? Was that decision correct, looking at it from today's perspective?

It was my decision. I mutually chose political science. We went through a long path of getting to know each other and getting closer, but I am grateful. I have always sought depth behind processes, whether social or otherwise. Today I believe that this was one of the most accurate decisions in my life.

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

I am interested in politics, social development, writing, and education. I have experience in PR, journalism, and events. I love to read, to write texts, and to inspire people through words and my actions. I like the mountains, the sea, and cooking.

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

At this stage, I wouldn't change it, but I would build upon it. I am interested in social entrepreneurship, personal development, and educational projects with long-term impact.

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?

That I am a person who can be trusted. That I am sincere, professional, and inspiring. And that I have helped someone believe in themselves.

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?

I speak openly, I act responsibly. I trust my pace and I don't forget to smile – even in tense moments.

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, close ones?

Listening is stronger than speaking. Accepting that not everyone thinks like you. And that good communication requires emotional maturity and patience. The most important lesson is to realize that for each person, the moments of growth and maturation are individual.

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 resource, not a goal. They provide freedom, but not happiness. Their influence is as great as we allow it. My attitude is- money with a mission – to serve, not to control.

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

Don't wait for the “perfect moment”. Act with what you have, where you are. Learn, adapt, be a good person. And never underestimate yourself. Success is within you and is waiting for you to open the door!