Women as a driver of development – meeting on the project “Catalysts for Change”

On March 22 and 23, 2026, a working meeting was held in Sofia with the regional coordinators of the National Network of Health Mediators and the extended team on the project “Catalysts for Change”, implemented by the BFPA, NNHM, DA Foundation and Dignita Foundation in a consortium.

Among the key highlights of the program was the topic “Women’s Rights: A Driving Force for Development”, presented by Kamelia Dimitrova from Dignita Foundation. Her presentation placed a strong emphasis on the role of women as an active factor for social change and sustainable development. It was emphasized that guaranteeing women’s rights is not only a matter of justice, but also a strategic tool for improving public health, social integration and the quality of life in vulnerable communities.

Dr. Rada Stamenkova from BFPA presented the upcoming activities of the organization and partners, outlining the main priorities and next steps. The participants discussed a number of practical and substantive topics related to implementation – including the regulatory framework, reporting forms, advocacy and information materials, as well as the specifics of the places where the activities will be implemented.

The role of the district coordinators as key figures for the work at the local level was emphasized. Their commitment and professionalism are the basis of sustainable results and efforts to achieve real change in support of the women and communities we work with.

The participants also discussed the proposals for changes to the Regulation on the activities of health mediators, aimed at more effective support of their work and sustainable development of the health mediation model in Bulgaria.

The meeting was held within the framework of a project implemented with the support of the Chanel Foundation. Prof. Maya Grekova, as well as Vanya Abadjieva, Dilyana Dilkova, Tsveta Petkova and Zahari Atanasov from the NNHM, also actively participated in it, who contributed with expert experience and guidance for the work of the teams.