The AUBG community has a long-standing tradition of giving back to the institution that served as incubator for their big ideas, introduced them to newfound hobbies and friendships, and showed them what true community means.
Many of these individuals have walked the path of student clubs – some as members and leaders, others as founders. What unites them all? Their commendable culture of giving back.
We spoke with several AUBG alumni and friends who donate to student clubs not only financially but also through mentorship and moral encouragement. For them, carrying forward the community spirit and the values these clubs embody is what truly matters.
The father of More Honors, Anguel Anguelov (‘00), on long-term impact
Anguel Anguelov (‘00) is well-known within the AUBG community. He is а University Council member, accomplished serial entrepreneur, and digital marketing expert with a strong background in strategy, software development, and SEO. He is also the founder of the More Honors student club. “It’s my own child,” asserts Anguelov.
Today, he actively supports both More Honors and the Broadway Performance Club, which he was also a part of, while recognizing the importance of all student clubs at AUBG, both big and small.
Speaking for himself and other alumni, he points out two main reasons for giving back: emotional and rational.
“Emotionally, we’re deeply connected to the ideas these clubs stand for – creativity, freedom of speech and expression, and community. We want to help them survive and thrive so future generations can experience them too,” he shares.
Anguelov has a long-term vision for the development of these clubs: “Being involved in something so professionally run helps students in their careers.” Indeed, many More Honors alumni now work in media, creative agencies, and film production across the globe. “I’m very proud of that,” he adds.
To ensure the clubs’ sustainability, he also offers financial support. “The Musical has huge budget needs, and it simply cannot support itself,” he explains.
For More Honors, Anguelov and fellow alumni established a fund for long-term investments in equipment, such as cameras, to offset recurring variable costs for rental.
“I’d been thinking about how to do this for a long time, and thanks to the ABF $1 million matching grant challenge, we finally made it happen,” he says.
A tradition that sings on: Mira Radoslavova (‘22) and the AUBG Musical veterans
During her time at AUBG, the Broadway Performance Club defined Mira Radoslavova’s (‘22) entire university experience. From seeing a rehearsal of “Rock of Ages” during her MultiTalent Quest campus tour to joining the club in her very first year, the club has been running in her blood.
“The musical is very community-oriented; it’s our tribe, our family. That’s why I want to support it however I can, just like many other veterans,” she shares.
Being in the organizational department in her second year in the role of a choreographer, Mira faced certain challenges during the pandemic. “I developed a sense of responsibility towards the club,” she says.
By her fourth year, as producer, she was tasked with rebuilding the AUBG Musicals community in the COVID-19 aftermath and preparing for their next tour.
“At that point, I received a lot of support from veterans who have walked this path before me. It’s not only their financial help that assisted us but also moral support and guidance,” she says.
Mentorship remains a pillar of the club today. Veterans organize team-building events to welcome the new cast and creative team, passing down insights and creating lasting bonds. “It’s a two-sided relationship,” Mira explains. “Students receive support, and veterans get to see their legacy continue.”
Financial support also plays a key role, as Anguel Anguelov highlighted. In her senior year, Mira inherited and has since overseen the musical’s Go Get Funding initiative. “The fundraiser is kind of like a tradition for me. Donations are raised in the name of the entire group of people helping the musical,” she clarifies.
Watching the Broadway Performance Club perform each year is a reason for Mira and other alumni and friends to come back and stay connected to AUBG.
“There’s always something new – be it a fresh marketing approach or a new kind of partnership. I’m really proud to see it grow,” she concludes.
Vladimir Borachev (‘95) on empowering change
Vladimir Borachev (‘95) is a prominent figure within the AUBG community: a beloved EMBA professor, member of AUBG’s first graduating class, leadership trainer, executive coach, and former AUBG Board and University Council member. For him, true leadership includes giving back to the institutions and clubs that have made a difference.
“AUBG has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development,” he shares. “It feels great to support students in their studies and extracurricular activities.”
Borachev has been an avid AUBG contributor over the years. In addition to sharing knowledge through the EMBA program and mentoring students and aumni, he has also made meaningful financial contributions. From sports and the Panitza Library to the Elevate Accelerator and the Class of ’95 Scholarship fund, his goal is to create a lasting impact.
His donations and grounded in fostering values such as “better communication, teamwork, discipline, social responsibility, and entrepreneurial spirit.”
He’s also a strong supporter of the Better Community Club. “The club is an example of positive energy put to work for meaningful causes. Their activities help build better social awareness and responsibility among young people,” he says.
For Borachev, giving back is a natural part of life. “Each of us goes through two distinct stages. During the first, we receive help, advice, and financial aid from others. During the second, we have the opportunity to support others on their journey,” he reflects. “AUBG has given us so much, and giving back to others feels so right and so good.”
Violeta Macheva (‘04) supporting entrepreneurial spirit and social change
Another person who has followed in Vladimir Borachev’s donating footsteps is Violeta Macheva (‘04). A saucerful entrepreneur, she firmly believes in passing on knowledge and supporting talent when she sees it.
“AUBG has shaped my thinking as a businessperson and entrepreneur. Supporting Better Community Club (BCC) is my way of giving back to students who, in a few years, may be walking a similar path to mine,” she shares.
Macheva has donated to the club in both 2023 and 2024, in addition to supporting Borachev’s campaign. In 2023, she participated in BCC’s social entrepreneurship competition, invited by Professor Evelina van Mensel. The event brought together youth aged 17 to 25 to present sustainable solutions to real-world problems. Violeta shared her entrepreneurial journey during a talk titled “How to Follow Your Dreams Responsibly”, tracing her path from founding Magic Outdoor to supporting causes such as youth internship programs, young female entrepreneurs, and several social foundations in Bulgaria.
She credits much of her growth, both personal and professional, to her time at AUBG.
“AUBG gave me the chance to study on an almost full scholarship. Now, it’s time for me to give back and help other students and children achieve their dreams,” she concluded.
The individuals featured in this article represent just a small fraction of the many generous supporters of AUBG. From staff and faculty to friends of AUBG and countless other alumni not mentioned, it is our community that drives us forward. Thank you!
