At Sopra Steria Bulgaria, we believe that every career path is shaped by both professional and personal experiences. In this story, we follow the journey of our co-CEO, Lora, as she responds to life’s viewpoint, embraces opportunities, and shares valuable lessons from her career.
Early Values and Aspirations
Lora’s journey begins on a quiet street where kids drew chalk patterns without a car passing for hours. Her childhood was filled with curiosity and creativity, and from early on, she held tightly to two values: freedom and integrity.
She carried these into adulthood—but life, as it often does, had its own twists in store.
Learning Through Experience
As she entered adulthood, Lora quickly learned that assumptions can often lead to misunderstandings. When one assumes what is going to happen, it very often happens entirely contrary to what was expected. In a world full of assumptions, Lora learns that it is good to ask, speak, and even better, surprise the other side with understanding, and not let assumptions cloud your judgment.
Adapting to Change
Relocating to a new country at the age of nineteen presented both challenges and opportunities. During this time, Lora developed a deeper appreciation for things you pay for with your own earned money and for independence, and the value of self-earned achievements. These experiences strengthened her resilience and adaptability.
Starting a Career with Purpose
After successfully graduating in Germany, applying her own principles, Lora searches for a job in a small company. It is important for her to feel like she can make a difference. During her interview processes, she experiences that it is not enough to impress with personality and skills; you have to be courageous to get the opportunity. Getting a job was a success for her, but then came the challenges of the job, long hours of train travel, filling knowledge gaps, and keeping long-distance personal relationships. All of which helped her build endurance and focus.
Managing Expectations and Embracing Reality
Returning to the city of residence, Lora learns that when you get something you truly want, it might not be as expected. However, she viewed these moments as opportunities to grow. She learned that even when a situation doesn’t align with expectations, it can still offer valuable lessons—especially in patience and perspective.
Thriving in a Dynamic Environment
Lora later joined a consultancy team, where she contributed to a successful project pitch. This experience highlighted the importance of professional preparation, teamwork, clear communication, and shared goals. She saw firsthand how alignment and collaboration drive success, while a lack of clarity can hinder progress. In a world of constant human interaction, communication becomes art.
Gaining Confidence Through Experience
Commencing another project, she firsthand understands that the years of experience count. The experience teaches you not just what to say, but how much. It takes time to walk the path from being an apprentice to being the smartest person in the room. She feels forever grateful for the opportunity to work alongside her wise managers and mentors.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
At one point, Lora took a temporary break from work to focus on personal matters. This time away gave her new insights and reinforced the importance of the family and time spent with the closest people. Upon returning to live her values by giving back to her own country, she embraced a new role with renewed energy and perspective. From that moment on, Lora listens, shares, and inspires for and with the Sopra Steria Bulgaria team.
Lessons to Carry Forward
Lora’s journey is deeply personal, but her takeaways hold meaning for many of us. Here are a few she shared:
- Culture shapes us. Be open to how others experience life and work.
- It’s okay to take a break. Always give the best of you but remember: work doesn’t always depend solely on us, and stepping back can bring clarity.
- Maternity leave is a beautiful process and a temporary one. People remember who you are and the value you bring, even when you take a break.
- Pace yourself. Taking yourself at work too seriously too early can exhaust—balance is key.
- Protect your energy. High standards are important, but health and family should always come first. When we put them on the scale with work, we cannot even them out. Only healthy and happy individuals can give their best at work.
A Leader With a Dream
Lora dreams of a world with dignity and better standards for children and the elderly—without pain or poverty. While she knows Sopra Steria Bulgaria can’t change the world singlehandedly, she’s proud of what we can shape: a strong, human-first workplace where people grow, thrive, and feel like they belong.
At Sopra Steria Bulgaria, we believe every person’s path is worth sharing. Every twist, pause, and leap forward adds something unique to who we are as a team.
If Lora’s story resonated with you, stay tuned—we have more stories to tell.
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