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Polly Zaharieva
Freelance Projects maker
Professional Background
Polly Zaharieva is a dynamic professional with a diverse and extensive background in media, communications, and project management. Born and raised in Bulgaria, Polly has enriched her life with experiences living in several European countries, including Germany, France, Serbia, and Hungary. This international exposure has provided her with a unique perspective, enabling her to thrive in various roles within the media and cultural sectors.
Polly's career began with her impactful role as a producer for a morning show, where she honed her skills in communication and audience engagement. Her passion for the arts blossomed as she organized multiple art festivals, including the prestigious Pablo Picasso exhibition in Bulgaria, which underscored her commitment to bringing culture to the forefront of society. This early work set the foundation for her later career, where she took on significant projects such as her role as a Project Manager at Junction. At Junction, she was instrumental in creating international conferences and personal development courses across Europe, demonstrating her ability to connect people and ideas across borders.
In her current position, Polly manages the Fotofabrika festival, the first contemporary photography festival in Sofia, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in the cultural landscape of Bulgaria. Her innovative spirit led her to found the TOM Bulgaria community, part of a global movement that focuses on driving assistive technology innovation. This initiative aims to develop affordable open-source solutions that address real-world challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, highlighting Polly's commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.
Education and Achievements
Polly Zaharieva has a strong educational foundation, reflected in her multiple academic credentials. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Journalism at Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, where she built a solid base in media and communication principles. Following that, Polly pursued not one, but two Master's degrees: one in International and Intercultural Communication from Europa-Universität Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder) and another in Cultural Anthropology, again from Sofia University. Additionally, she studied European Studies/Civilization at the same university, showcasing her dedication to understanding the complexities of European identity and culture. Her academic journey also included Communication and Media Studies at Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, further enhancing her expertise in the field.
Polly's professional trajectory is marked by her roles in various reputable organizations. As the General Manager of her self-employed ventures, she has cultivated a portfolio that reflects her versatile skills and commitment to excellence. Her history as a Project Manager at CEE Block and content manager at Concept Studio Film & TV Production demonstrates her proficiency in content distribution and her passion for promoting Bulgarian cinema worldwide.
In addition to her managerial roles, Polly's diverse work experience includes being an Assistant at Barouh and Partners and a Producer at BG Radio Communicorp Group. Each position has contributed to her extensive skill set, making her a formidable professional in the fields of media, project management, and community development.
Notable Achievements
Polly's achievements extend beyond her professional roles. Her work in leading the Fotofabrika festival has garnered significant attention and appreciation, positioning her as a key figure in contemporary art and photography in Sofia. Furthermore, her involvement in the TOM Bulgaria community marks a significant contribution to disability advocacy, where she actively promotes the creation and implementation of assistive technologies that empower individuals and improve their quality of life.
Another notable venture of Polly's is her participation in a conference on blockchain policy making, further establishing her as an innovator within the rapidly evolving tech landscape. This project illustrates her keen interest in contemporary issues and her ability to speak on complex subjects that intertwine technology with policy and society. The conference's details can be explored at CEEBLOCK, a testament to her engagement with cutting-edge topics that influence our modern world.
Personal Interests
Beyond her impressive professional accomplishments, Polly is a lively individual who describes herself as a 'princess of organised chaos.' This fun-loving spirit shines through not only in her work but also in her personal life. She has cultivated a fondness for dining, having developed favorites in over ten European capitals, showcasing her multicultural tastes and love for the culinary arts. Polly enjoys camping at her trailer, an activity that allows her to connect with nature and unwind from her busy professional life.
As a devoted animal lover, Polly shares her life with two stray dogs, reflecting her compassionate nature and desire to make a positive impact beyond her career. Her combination of professional prowess, artistic passion, and personal joys makes Polly Zaharieva a unique and inspiring figure in her community and beyond.
