Ivayla & Kristina Mitevi: The Importance of Supporting Young Talent

At the beginning of the academic semester at HRC Culinary Academy, our partners from Ludogorsko Pile provided two full scholarships for the 6-month program “Food Preparation Certificate.” The lucky recipients are sisters Kristina and Ivayla Mitevi from Sevlievo, who are already studying hard and practicing in the academy’s kitchens. The two share what this valuable opportunity means to them and how it motivates them to pursue their professional culinary path.

How did you feel when you found out you had won a full scholarship to study at HRC?

Ivayla: We were both very excited, we didn’t expect it. It was a bit of a shock for us.

Kristina: We were very grateful. It came as a surprise to us and at first we couldn’t believe it.

What does the support from Ludogorsko Pile mean to you?

Ivayla: Personally, it means a lot to me because it’s clear that they support young talent.

Kristina: It means a lot to both of us. I don’t think we could be pursuing this right now, at least not for so long. They give us the opportunity to achieve our goals faster.

What were your first impressions when you entered the academy?

Ivayla: Everyone was very friendly. I was a little nervous when I arrived. I really liked the atmosphere. The chefs were very nice, everything was very pleasant.

Kristina: From our very first day at the academy, we saw that the atmosphere was pleasant and that there was a lot to learn. On the first day of class, we could feel the excitement and motivation of the other students.

What new skills or knowledge have you acquired so far, and what inspires you most in your training?

Kristina: Many things inspire us. Neither of us has any experience, so almost every day is something new – techniques, presentation methods, how to manage your time.

Ivayla: One of the things that inspires us most is the way the instructors approach teaching. They are always open to questions.

What do you imagine you will do after completing the program? Do you still dream of starting your own business?

Ivayla: The dream is still to open our own business one day. But before that, we will gain experience in the field. We still have a lot to learn and want to be better prepared before taking that step.

What is your message to future students?

Ivayla: Even if you are nervous and feel like you won’t be able to do it, give it a try, sign up, you may like it more than you expect. People are very understanding, even if you don’t know much or don’t have professional experience.

Kristina: Try hard and don’t be afraid to pursue something that scares you!