OUR STORY
The Balanced Development Foundation was established to advance a new model of education in Bulgaria. Our long-term objective is to establish a tuition-free high school in the region of Vetrino built around the development of mind, body, and character. As a non-profit organization, we are committed to providing free, high-quality education that builds discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose.
Our balanced approach emphasizes practical skills aligned with each student’s interests, abilities, and potential. Through hands-on learning, students develop real-world competence while strengthening mind, body, and character. This preparation equips them not only for professional success, but for a disciplined, purposeful, and healthy life.
Our Goals:
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Build a tuition-free high school, setting a new education standard, accessible to every Bulgarian student.
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Support the Vetrino community by creating jobs, fostering cultural growth, and providing opportunities for youth to thrive and develop as well-rounded professionals with sufficient practical skill.
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Inspire change within Bulgaria's education system by demonstrating the benefits of balanced development, practical skills, and a focus on individual interests and potential.
Vladimir Tomov is the founder and director of the Balanced Development Foundation. As an applied mathematician at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory since 2014, he has led and contributed to numerous cutting-edge scientific projects in the field of predictive numerical simulations. He earned a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Texas A&M University in 2014 and a Bachelor’s degree in Informatics from Sofia University in 2008. He has attended math high schools in Vidin and Varna.
The principles of the Balanced Development Foundation reflect Vladimir’s philosophy of personal development, centered on the balanced growth of mind, body, and character. Beyond his academic achievements, he actively enjoys soccer, cycling, badminton, track and field. He's also a regular reader, with some of his recent book titles shared on his Facebook page. His two teenage daughters will be the first participants in the foundation's organized summer camps and newly established high school.
Instructors and Staff
Iliyan Alekov brings over 20 years of experience in information systems development, software architecture, and project management, with additional deep expertise in personal finance and investments. As a certified developer, trainer and consultant, he has led teams, managed multinational critical projects, and delivered high-impact training on databases, middleware, and cloud technologies. At our foundation, Iliyan teaches coding, computer skills, and personal finance, helping students build a strong base and develop essential skills in these fields.
Angel Gushkov brings strong expertise in survival skills, mountaineering, woodworking, and practical craftsmanship. As a hands-on builder and founder of the Angel Geometry string art group, he helps students develop resilience, stamina, precision, and confidence through real-world challenges.
Dr. Svetlana Anodalieva is the camp doctor and was responsible for the medical care of participants during the 2025 program. She ensures a safe and professionally supervised environment, and this year she will also lead first aid training, giving students practical skills they can rely on in real situations.
Rayna Lazarova is a global event organizer with experience at UNICEF and expertise in nutrition and herbal medicine. At camp, she teaches students how sleep, food, and daily habits influence energy, focus, and long-term health.
Elena Bratanova is an experienced digital marketing professional with strong expertise in paid advertising and search engine optimization. At camp, she teaches students how modern marketing works in practice — from strategy to measurable results.
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