His name is Ivaylo, Ivaylo Yabalkarov. He likes his name, and he likes apples. But what he likes most is what he does – because he does it with faith, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose. Ivaylo is one of the founders of the “Mission Wings” Foundation in Stara Zagora and an active advocate for the rights of children who have experienced violence, poverty, and injustice. In this personal story, he takes us into a “Blue Room” – a place that leaves a lasting impression – and into a moment that changes the way you view your work forever.
A few years ago, I had to conduct an interview with a child – a victim of domestic abuse by their own mother. The abuse was systematic. Neighbours had filed reports. There was evidence. There was pain. The interview was to take place in the so-called “Blue Room” – a space where the colour is less important than the idea: to protect the child from further trauma. To prevent them from being shuffled between a courtroom and a police station. To speak only once, to only one person – the psychologist. Everyone else – judge, prosecutor, lawyers, social workers – observe from an adjacent room.
I had time to prepare the child, to put them at ease. And it worked. I felt it. That feeling that the next day everything would be alright – that the child would speak, be heard, have a safe space… that justice would be done. But it didn’t happen exactly like that…
During the interview, the child made it clear in every possible way that they did not want to incriminate their mother. The person who had hurt them. The person who was supposed to “care” for them. The child was loyal. Fearful. Quiet. They hid under the table, sprawled on the sofa, remained silent. We realised – we would not get the information we needed. The interview was interrupted. The child was returned to their mother. I felt like I had failed.
But not everything depends on me.
A few weeks later, following a new report, the child was removed and placed in foster care. They have been there for years. It wasn’t the first difficult case. It won’t be the last. Over the years, I’ve learned that not everything depends on me. That a child’s behaviour often hides invisible threads – attachments, fears, survival. I’ve learned to see things from different angles. Not to blame myself, but also not to give up. To give my best, even when I’m not the one making the decisions.
On Our Mission to Give Wings
I have been working in the social sector since 2008. I’ve been part of several organisations, but now I’m at home – at the “Mission Wings” Foundation. I’ve been here from the very beginning. Together with my colleagues, we are on a mission – to give wings, or at least help people find their own wings.
We have offices not only in the city centre, but also where the people are – in the Roma neighbourhood of Stara Zagora, near the Registration Centre in Harmanli, and with mobile teams in villages across the region. We know that some people will never come to us – so we go to them. We visit homes, courts, police stations, care centres, schools, kindergartens… We organise programmes, excursions, swimming sessions, football tournaments… But most importantly – we are present. We stay close to the people and to their suffering and pain.
Our work has meaning when we are not alone. When we are part of a bigger picture. We join networks, share experiences, learn, find support – especially when we are under attack, which, between us, happens often. That’s why the National Network for Children is important. It helps us not feel alone.
There’s a pleasant feeling when I speak with people from the Network’s Secretariat. That feeling that we are on the same shore, in the same boat. I really enjoy participating in the NMD’s “Megaphone” Programme. Seeing young people raise their voices, clearly express opinions, learn to be active citizens – it’s inspiring. Sometimes I regret that during my time, many years ago, there was no “Megaphone”.
It’s also a special feeling at Christmas, when my desk is buried under books from the “Make Magic. Give a Book to a Child” campaign. Every courier in town knows my name. It takes me out of the routine and reminds me why I’m here.
Working with children brings challenges, but also opportunities – not only for them, but for you. It awakens the child within you. Mixes with your adult self. It creates a wonderful combination that can truly be helpful.
I won’t lie – it’s difficult. But it is meaningful. You see that you are not just clicking along in front of the TV. You are doing something. You become part of change. And those of us who work for children? Don Quixotes. Missionaries. Long-distance runners.
Working with children is never easy. Sometimes it is heart-wrenching, sometimes inspiring. But it always has meaning. Because every child deserves a chance – for safety, for love, for a future. We can give that chance together. Join us at www.nmd.bg/dari and help us continue to write stories of hope!
This article is part of the National Network for Children’s new series, “Stories from the Heart of the Network”, inviting you to glimpse the world of those who work every day, often quietly and unnoticed, for the rights and well-being of children in Bulgaria. We share real stories of specialists, activists, and professionals from NMD member organisations – people who do not just perform their duties, but live with the cause of creating a better future for every child.
