Mila Ilieva, born in Sofia to a Bulgarian family, is an economist by profession, having graduated from the University of National and World Economy. Currently, she manages a family business. Throughout her career, Mila has successfully balanced her work and motherhood, raising her twin daughters, Kristiana and Maria, who are now 10 years old and in 4th grade at AAS. She enjoys the unwavering support of her partner in life, Lubomir, who is always by her side. Naturally active, Mila has a deep passion for her work, but she also finds fulfillment in engaging with various causes. She believes in the importance of social engagement, a value instilled in her by her family. Mila has always rejected passivity and indifference in life. At the age of 19, she and her mother organized a donation campaign for an orphanage in Sofia, an experience that left a lasting impression and sparked her dedication to supporting children’s causes. Over the years, Mila and her husband have participated in numerous charitable campaigns. They have actively supported the PTO’s initiatives to assist Ukrainian refugees, contributed toys for the refugees, and taken part in a donation drive organized by devoted mothers to aid the victims of the earthquake in Hatay, Turkey.

In our attempt to get to know Ms. Ilieva better, and to introduce her to the community, we asked her a few questions.

Q: How long have you been part of the AAS community, and what originally brought you to the school?

We have been in AAS since 2019, when Kristiana and Maria entered Pre-K with the wonderful teacher Miss Polly. Before AAS we had quite extensive experience with changing 3 kindergartens. We could not find the right place for us. We were not calm until we found AAS. We applied to AAS and were accepted, we were lucky because there were available places at that time.  Above all, we wanted Kristiana and Maria to study in an international environment that would enrich and build them as individuals. It was important to learn in a modern and innovative way, to discover the world by themselves, not to worry about mistakes. AAS gave us this and much more.  Our children grow open to the world and study together with different nationalities and are free to make their own choices. The AAS campus is really amazing and we are aware of how much effort it costs to build and maintain all this. This environment adds to school life, creating a sense of freedom and enabling wonderful games and activities for children.

Q: What do you like most about the school?  

In addition to everything I have already listed, I will add the international character of the school, the vast diversity of the student body, and the amazing Assemblies that always commit to serious topics. It is also very important that the school gives parents the opportunity to participate in the school life of the children through PTO. We have a great school community, amazing parents. It is always interesting to meet and exchange life experiences with people from different parts of the world. A wonderful team of teachers who teach and take care of our children with great patience  and dedication every day.

Q: What lasting impact do you think AAS will have on your children?

There are many. The school has a great influence on children, our girls were brought up in empathy, responsibility, and respect.  The advice they receive from teachers is applied equally with parental advice.

Q: What first inspired you to support the PTO initiatives at AAS?

I think the Covid pandemic taught us a good lesson.  I realized for myself how important it is to communicate and how valuable it is to be a part of a community.  This motivated me to make vegan cookies at the first Bake sale after the Covid lockdown.  I was very happy that life is opening again, that I can do something to share with the community and Krisi and Maria were very happy and proud.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you would give to a new parent joining the AAS community?

In AAS we have a great community – participate and be active.  These are the best years of our lives, the time we can share with our children, and this time will not roll back.  Do not miss the opportunity to be part of their school life, to set a good example for them to follow.  Supporting the PTO school initiatives we are supporting our children, school and our all  community.