Princess Kalina Honours Bulgaria’s Businesswomen of the Year 2025 in a Night of Elegance and Distinction

In Sofia, an atmosphere of celebration and cultural pride filled the hall as Her Royal Highness Princess Kalina of Bulgaria, daughter of Tsar Simeon II, presided as the honorary patron of this year’s Businesswoman of the Year competition. The event, which has long stood as a platform recognising the achievements of Bulgarian women across industry and enterprise, is owned and curated by the renowned PR expert and philanthropist Evgeni Minchev, whose social and business influence extends seamlessly between Sofia and London.

Eleven exceptional women were honoured for their professional accomplishments, receiving their awards from Princess Kalina herself, alongside Associate Professor Natalia Kiselova, former Speaker of the Bulgarian Parliament. The evening unfolded with an air of refined celebration, paying tribute to those shaping Bulgaria’s economic and creative landscape.

The coveted Grand Prix was awarded to Adriana Vasileva, the celebrated “queen of wedding dresses,” whose craftsmanship and entrepreneurial leadership continue to place her at the forefront of Bulgarian couture. Other distinguished recipients included Zornitsa Stoycheva, Plamena Dincheva, Petya Krasteva, Beta Davidkova, Violet Vörler, Julia Castelli, and several other remarkable women who have each excelled in their respective fields.

Princess Kalina captivated the audience with a sartorial gesture that was as symbolic as it was striking: she appeared elegantly dressed in a skirt inspired by the attire of a Chinese empress, a tribute to her young son, Prince Simeon, who is currently residing at the Shao Lin Monastery. The choice added a note of cultural curiosity and personal storytelling to the evening.

The event also highlighted the ongoing international influence of its organiser, Evgeni Minchev. Following the tremendous success of the British Bulgarian Business Ball—which he has hosted in London for the past twelve years—Minchev is set to chair the upcoming London Fashion and Business Awards on 6 March, to be held at the exclusive Mosimann’s private club.

The ceremony was more than an awards night; it was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the dynamic role Bulgarian women continue to play both at home and on the global stage.