Appfire Regional Finance Partner Yuliana Georgieva has a deep passion for kayaking. Every year, she paddles from early spring through late autumn in her hometown of Sofia, Bulgaria. But in 2022, she decided to take that passion to a new level. After meeting Anita Kuncheva, a woman on a mission to support children with developmental challenges, Yuliana felt inspired to celebrate her birthday with a greater purpose — by partnering with Anita on a fundraising kayaking tour around Corfu Island, Greece.
Turning a dream into reality
Anita dreamed of creating a foundation called “Kids with Developmental Problems” to raise awareness and provide resources for differently-abled children often overlooked by society. Her vision was to establish a physical space where kids and their families could receive support, share joy, and create lasting memories through educational and celebratory events.
Yuliana wanted to help bring Anita’s dream to life, so she rallied her family, friends, and colleagues to join the cause. One of those friends, Yassen Jelyazkov, owner of a bike and kayak adventure company called IztreshTeam, was so moved by her mission that he volunteered to paddle alongside her on the challenging tour, ensuring she wouldn’t have to face the journey alone.
Paddling for a purpose
With additional backing from Appfire and Appfire Town, which matched every kilometer Yuliana paddled with donations, the stage was set for her mission. On June 21, 2022, Yuliana and Yassen embarked on a seven-day, 180-kilometer kayaking journey around Corfu Island.
Their trip was a mix of breathtaking beauty — like the serene sandstone sea caves — and relentless physical challenges as they battled the elements. Through it all, Yuliana stayed focused on the cause, pushing through exhaustion by reminding herself of the children and families she was supporting. After a week of paddling, Yuliana and Yassen completed their journey, raising over 2,000 leva for Anita’s foundation.
More than a journey — it's just the beginning
For Yuliana, this journey was just the beginning of something much bigger. Inspired by her success, she’s committed to continuing her mission — using her kayak as a vehicle for change and paddling for causes that make a difference. With each new challenge she takes on, we’ll be supporting her as she navigates the waves to help make the world a better place.