This interview series will introduce you to the heroes of our support groups. We are proud to present to you the facilitator of the group BraveLab – Lily Dragoeva.

Who is Lily? Introduce yourself.

Still 29, from Gabrovo, a Gemini. A Political Science & Sociology graduate, an activist by vocation (and already by profession as well) and a traveler at heart. I love chocolate and real relationships.

What’s the best thing about being the Executive Director of Bilitis?

The position is definitely challenging, but I mean that in a good way, because I am also given a lot of opportunities. Above all, the position allows me to meet a great deal of people from Bulgaria and around the world, who are more inclined to listen to what I have to say because I am a “director”. I realize it sounds superficial, but that’s the reality and I’m trying to make the best of it, voicing the challenges the Bulgarian LGBTI+ community is faced with.

What would you change for the community if you had a magic wand?

I would immediately make intolerance towards LGBTI+ people disappear! To me, cultivating the perception that LGBTI+ people are not “the other” and different, but rather just people who want to live happily and peacefully, is the key to solving all the problems we are facing. So if I had a magic wand, I would make Bulgarian society accepting.

Three things that make you happy?

Sunny weather, the scent of flowers, a hug.

What’s the most valuable lesson you´ve learned through your work at Bilitis?

No matter how unattainable and ambitious a goal may seem at first sight, it can always be reached through perseverance, work and faith. Our task is not at all an easy one, but I hold the sincere belief that we are on the right track and what we do is meaningful and making the lives of many people better.