/13.11.2026/

Behind every colleague lies an interesting personal story, talent or passion that inspires and energizes them. Today we meet Hristinka Gancheva – an operational accountant at Howag, who carries the love for Bulgarian folk dances in her heart and is part of a folk dance group.

For her, dance is much more than a hobby – it is an emotion, tradition, discipline and a sense of belonging to a community. 

On October 25th, 2026, Hristinka—together with Daniela Peneva, a key pillar of our production, performed as part of an ensemble of 200 artists at the “National Palace of Culture” (NDK) in Sofia. The largest cultural centre in Southeast Europe was packed to full capacity for the show. A subsequent performance took place in our hometown of Targovishte. The shows were of the highest class and thrilled hundreds of spectators.

Christinka, how did your story with folk dances begin?

-When I was seven, a lady came to school and asked me: do you want to dance ballet? I didn’t know what ballet was, but I wanted to. Then this woman, Mariam Makarnayan, ignited in me the love for dance that burns to this day.

I remember my first participation – I was seven, in the role of a chicken. The moment I appeared on stage, the hall burst into applause, as I was quite petite for my age. A very fond memory. 

What are the common aspects between a good dance crew and a good work team?

-Mutual respect, willingness to help and support, and the awareness to give your best. The success of the company is the result of the synchronicity between all of us – if one person makes a mistake, it affects the whole dance. 

What motivates you to continue when you are tired or have a busy day?

-It is precisely on busy days that the dance hall is my place to recharge, where dance revives and inspires me. 

What do Bulgarian folk dances mean to you?

-Dances are part of my essence – they charge and inspire me. Folk dances are part of our traditions, our identity, the living connection with our past and with the wisdom of our ancestors. 

What would you say to colleagues who have a favorite hobby or dream, but haven’t yet found the time to dedicate themselves to it?

-Don’t procrastinate, have the courage to try. The first step is the hardest, but you must do it! The biggest failure is the fear of trying!