The most successful Bulgarian footballer, Hristo Stoichkov, inspired over 100 boys and girls at the youth forum “Worthy of Bulgaria,” held at the Youth Center in Pazardzhik. In addition to the Ballon d’Or winner, other guest speakers at the event included Olympic rhythmic gymnastics medalist Reneta Kamberova, popular actor Marian Bachev, the chairman of the Administrative Court in Plovdiv Mariana Shoteva, Mayor of Pazardzhik Todor Popov, president of the Hebar volleyball club Alexander Ivanov, president of the Bulgarian Sports Journalists Association Nayden Todorov, and Giuseppe De Francesco, honorary consul of Italy in Plovdiv. Representatives of the National Guard were also present. The youth forum “Worthy of Bulgaria” is a key activity of the “Youth Guard Squads” Association’s project “Young People – The Future of Bulgaria – With Unlimited Possibilities” (contract No. 25-00-20/10.07.2023), supported by the National Youth Program and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Throughout the event, young people from Pazardzhik and youth guard squad representatives from across the country listened to speakers share their personal development stories. The host of the event was Jem Yumerov, a former guard in the VI School Guard Squad in Aytos and now a journalism student at Sofia University. Attendees were welcomed by Tanya Dimitrova, leader of the XVIII School Guard Squad in Pazardzhik, and the mayor of the city, Todor Popov, who emphasized the importance of providing a good environment for youth development in sports and culture. The guest speakers delivered valuable messages to the young audiences. Marian Bachev, for instance, encouraged them to pursue what makes them happy despite challenges, describing his own perseverance in acting. Alexander Ivanov advised dedication in any endeavor to prevent waking up unhappy each day. Hristo Stoichkov’s appearance thrilled the young audience. He advised them to avoid the word “I” and value unity, emphasizing the importance of family, friends, teammates, and fans. An emotional moment unfolded when he met 10-year-old Marten, who, recently diagnosed with diabetes, fulfilled his dream of meeting his idol. Reneta Kamberova urged the participants to be kind and honest, noting that doing good with love will yield results. Sports journalist Nayden Todorov stated, “Each of you possesses something extraordinary that makes you a worthy Bulgarian.” Giuseppe De Francesco highlighted the importance of self-confidence, clarifying that giving one’s best will lead to success. Mariana Shoteva encouraged the youth to believe in themselves and have a backup plan, asserting that they write their own destinies. The participants expressed pride in wearing the guard uniform, considered an honor. Representatives of the National Guard at the forum wished their successors unity. At the event’s conclusion, Dr. Denislava Angelova, chairwoman of the “Youth Guard Squads” Association, thanked Bogdan Patashev, former ambassador to the Vatican, for helping fulfill the youth’s dream of visiting the Papal Swiss Guard. Afterward, all participants visited the exhibition “Figures and Events in Bulgarian Sport” at the Regional History Museum in Pazardzhik.
