Support, empowerment, and the strength of sharing – this year’s national gathering of Roma women, held on June 7 at the Summer Theater in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, and organized by the Amalipe Center, was a moment of deep connection and transformation.
“Circle of Power – sharing, mutual support among women, and collective empowerment” was not just the title of the event – it embodied the spirit that animated an intense day of exchange and inspiration.
More than 80 participants from all over the country – from small villages to large cities, from schools to universities – came together in one space, bringing with them diverse experiences: from educational mediators to leaders of civil society organizations.
A space for dialogue, tradition, and freedom
The event created a unique atmosphere where tradition and modernity engaged in a vibrant, authentic dialogue. This fusion encouraged participants to reflect on both their personal and collective journeys, their cultural roots, and the right to freedom and change – including the rejection of harmful practices such as early marriage.
The “Circle of Power” became a bridge between generations, linking different stories with a shared sense of belonging. Women of various ages, social backgrounds, and education levels opened up about their challenges, the obstacles they overcame, and the goals they reached.
For some, it was a familiar gathering; for others, it was their first experience with such a warm and supportive community.
“I brought three girls with me who had never been here before. I wanted them to see this space and know that they are not alone,” said one participant.
Challenges, inspiration, and renewal
Throughout the day, key themes were addressed, including:
- the role of tradition and the right to choose one’s own path;
- the challenges faced by Roma women, both within and outside the community;
- education as a tool for empowerment;
- female solidarity in a context often shaped by multiple layers of discrimination.
Adult women – some over the age of 29 – shared their journeys with honesty and courage, speaking about the difficulties they had overcome, the people who supported them, and the joy of now being a source of strength for others.
Younger participants listened with care and respect, drawing strength and motivation from every word.
Through interactive workshops, the women explored emotions and inner resources by engaging with prompts like:
“When I feel powerless…”, “I feel strong when…”, and “I can support others by…”
Female energy and a vision for the future
As the hours passed, the circle expanded – both symbolically and physically – filling with energy, trust, and sisterhood.
The shared experiences highlighted how events like this:
- motivate participants to pursue education and develop professional skills;
- strengthen the freedom to make choices and protect personal boundaries;
- help break stereotypes and achieve economic independence;
- build self-esteem and leadership capacities;
- encourage mutual support within families and communities;
- reinforce a sense of unity and collective strength.
A lasting impact
The “Circle of Power” gathering left a deep and lasting mark on the hearts of all who attended. It showed that the strength of a community lies in shared stories, authentic support, and the will to create change.
In difficult moments, the women will remember the energy of that day, draw courage from it, and continue building a future where every girl knows – without a doubt – that she can succeed.
The Acade-Me project – Accelerating Capabilities against Anti-Gypsyism and Discriminations in Education – was born from this very vision: to build community, share experiences, inspire confidence, and create new possibilities.
