Aleksander Foundation x AUBG'24 Scholars

The Aleksander Foundation is thrilled to announce Mihail Manev and Kostadin Dimitrov as the recipients of our newest stipend program for students at the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)! This exciting initiative, established in collaboration with the Trust for Social Achievement (TSA), aims to empower talented students from minority backgrounds. The stipend goes towards covering costs related to their higher education to ease financial burdens and foster their academic success.

Introducing the newest AUBG scholars

Mihail and Kostadin are both exceptional young men who have demonstrated stellar academic potential and a strong desire to make a difference. Their journeys to AUBG are testaments to their perseverance and dedication to education in the face of challenges. We at the Aleksander Foundation are incredibly proud to support them as they embark on this transformative chapter at AUBG.

Mihail Manev

Mihail Manev, a proud member of Bulgaria's Roma community and an emerging leader, has been awarded a prestigious stipend from the Aleksander Foundation to pursue his higher education. His journey into leadership began with the Arete Youth Foundation, where his active involvement in their programs and summer camps allowed him to develop essential leadership skills. As a coordinator for Arete, Mihail spearheaded several community projects that promoted positive transformation within the Roma community and cultural preservation. His dedication to fostering positive change within his community was further recognized when he was awarded the title "Mr. Forward Together," a testament to his leadership potential. With the support of the Aleksander Foundation, Mihail is eager to continue his development at AUBG, where he aims to further his impact on society and inspire future leaders from minority communities.

Kostadin Dimitrov

Kostadin Dimitrov, a driven and determined young Roma scholar from Sofia, Bulgaria, has also been awarded a prestigious stipend from the Aleksander Foundation. Kostadin's academic journey has been marked by resilience and a commitment to excellence, having transitioned from a school serving primarily Roma students to a more competitive high school environment, where he excelled and challenged stereotypes. Passionate about giving back to his community, Kostadin has been actively involved in the Summer Start Academy, where he has both participated and taught, aiming to improve educational outcomes for Roma children. At AUBG, he plans to major in European Studies, with the goal of contributing to positive change both within his community and beyond.

Investing in Future Potential

The Aleksander Foundation is confident that Mihail and Kostadin will thrive at AUBG, surrounded by a diverse and intellectually stimulating environment, they will have exceptional opportunities to develop their critical thinking, leadership skills, and academic knowledge. Mihail Manev and Kostadin Dimitrov’s selection as the first recipients of this stipend marks an important milestone, not only in their academic journeys but also in the broader effort to promote inclusivity and diversity in higher education. We are incredibly excited to witness their growth and achievements in the years to come.