site.btaFounder of Bulgarian Schools in Greenwich, Chelmsford, Canterbury Preserves Bulgarian Language, Culture in United Kingdom

Iliyana Boyazhdieva-Smith from London has been nominated for the Saint Zlata of Meglen Award in 2025 by the Bulgarian Primary, Secondary School and College in London, the Executive Agency for Bulgarians Abroad (EABA) said.

“With more than 40 years of pedagogical experience, Boyazhdieva-Smith dedicates her life to preserving the Bulgarian language, culture and traditions among our compatriots in the UK. She is the founder and driver of Bulgarian schools in Greenwich, Chelmsford and Canterbury,” the EABA emphasized.

"Thanks to her dedication, the students preserve their connection with their homeland and grow with love for Bulgaria," the EABA pointed out, adding that Boyazhdieva was also awarded the Neofit Rilski honorary award in 2022, which is the highest distinction awarded in the Bulgarian education system. 

On October 15, the EABA will present its annual Bulgarian Woman of the Year – Saint Zlata of Meglen Award. Twenty nominations have been received from 11 countries. BTA will present the nominees in a series of articles.