Unlock your Leadership Potential | Telerik Academy Upskill
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Telerik Academy Upskill

Women in Leadership:
Lead with depth.
Grow beyond roles.

Rating 4.3 MMBA

4.2/5

Secure your spot early

Admissions are on a rolling basis. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot.

Program duration

4 months. You can combine the program with your job  

Lectures

Tuesday (4:00-6:30 pm). 
Once per week. Start: November 3, 2026; End: Feb 16, 2027

Commitment

4 hrs/week for the sessions & mandatory group work plus additional time for self-prep and assignments. You'll have 3 weeks of vacation

Format

Lectures will be held online. Onsite networking events (optional)

Language

Conducted in Bulgarian, but all learning materials are in English

Price

EUR 2,499 (VAT incl.)

BGN 4,887.61 (VAT incl.)

 

 

 

Overview

Who you are is how you lead 

A leadership journey for women ready to move from high performance to high impact. 

This program helps women understand the patterns that shape how they lead, especially in the moments where leadership becomes most real: pressure, uncertainty, visibility, and conflict.

Explore how to think, relate, and decide with greater wisdom, clarity, and care. Through real-life experiences, reflection, and peer connection, you’ll strengthen not just what you do, but how you lead. 

After completing the program, you will be able to:

  • Lead authentically: Align who you are with how you lead across all areas of life and work.
  • Build trust: Create strong relationships and navigate conflict with confidence and empathy.
  • Think holistically: Move from reactive doing to intentional impact with sustainable results.
  • Strengthen resilience: Lead with clarity through uncertainty and complexity.
  • Deepen impact: Enhance your leadership through self-awareness and relationships with others.
  • See differently: Expand your mental models to navigate ambiguity and paradox.
  • Navigate conflict with grace: Step out of power struggles and into conscious dialogue. 

This is not about quick fixes, it’s about long-lasting change that starts from the inside out. 

Our guiding principles

02-product-management-icon

 

Adult-to-Adult Learning

You’re not here to be taught — you’re here to grow. We trust your responsibility and self-leadership.

10-communication-icon

 

Chatham House Rule

What’s shared stays in the group. Safety and respect are non-negotiable.

08-stakeholder-relations-icon

 

Dialogue over Debate

We value questions more than answers—insights over instruction.

During the program

Challenge yourself to be your very best. Here’s how the program benefits you. 
Female-Leadership-Small-2Female-Leadership-Small-1
  • Cultivate a positive, strengths-based approach to leadership. 
  • Tackle current career challenges and create a clear action plan for advancing to senior leadership roles with reflective learning. 
  • Take MyWorldView (400 USD outside the program) and be debriefed for free. This leadership maturity assessment tool is used by the White House and major corporations like Walmart. 
  • Engage in informal conversations with established leaders and learn first-hand about their stories of many triumphs and many more setbacks.
  • Participate in Leadership Labs with group coaching to reinforce learning. 
  • Build a strong, supportive peer network.  
Advantages

Unparalleled

learning experience

1Practical leadership. Deeper roots. Most leadership programs focus mainly on tools and techniques. This program also looks at the person using them: the patterns, assumptions, strengths, and pressure responses that shape how leadership happens in practice.
2Proven developmental frameworks Participants work with respected developmental tools, including MyWorldView by Global Leadership Associates and The Leadership Circle, to deepen self-understanding, identify growth patterns, and expand leadership capacity.
3Honest conversations with accomplished leaders Guest speakers share candid experiences from leadership in practice, including doubt, difficult choices, responsibility, trade-offs, and lessons that only became clear over time.
4A high-trust learning group The group is intentionally designed to foster trust, meaningful challenge, and peer learning, creating a strong developmental environment throughout the program.
5Designed for realities in women's leadership The program addresses both the external barriers women navigate and the internal patterns that influence confidence, voice, decision-making, and growth as leaders.
Alumni Success

Breaking boundaries. Empowering leadership

https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/ivelina_100x100.png?sfvrsn=a7ff5dbb_2
Ivelina Popova
Quality Assurance Team Lead
interop.io

The Upskill Women in Leadership program gave me valuable guidance and additional confidence on my leadership journey. In every lecture, I found something that resonated with me and contributed to my growth. The course confirmed that I’m moving in the right direction and helped me strengthen my trust in my own judgment.

https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/violeta_slavova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=8c5a647a_0
Violeta Slavova
Professional Services Lead,
SoftwareOne

One of the most valuable lessons I took away during my participation in the Women in Leadership program is the power of reframing – a tool I have begun to use in both my personal and professional life. I also developed a deeper understanding of the complexity of work–life balance, the necessary compromises that come with success, and the nuanced role that office politics plays in effective leadership. This program encourages deep self-reflection, reminding us that meaningful growth starts by looking inward, because a large part of leadership is rooted in inner harmony, resilience, and adaptability.

https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/madlena_ivanova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=8bde3afa_0
Madlena Ivanova
Test Lead,
Flutter International

The Women in Leadership program was a luxurious and transformational journey back to myself. In a world that constantly demands performance, results, and perfection, this experience gave me the rare gift of pausing, reflecting, and reconnecting with who I truly am—beyond job titles, roles, and expectations. It felt like a personal retreat, a therapy session, and a leadership course all in one.

https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/ivelina_pashova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=15dd2df_0
Ivelina Pashova
Head of Model schools program,
Teach for Bulgaria (Заедно в час)

During the Upskill Women in Leadership program, I learned how to look at leadership and my personal growth in a new way, and I gained specific tools that help me set higher goals, be more compassionate toward myself, and find new and different ways to balance my various life roles – as a professional, a partner, and a parent.

https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/elena_naydenova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=95fc2eab_0
Elena Naydenova
Talent Acquisition and Development Manager BG,
Kamenitza AD

This program was one of the most meaningful and inspiring experiences in my personal growth. The teamwork, self-analysis tools, and examples from experienced women leaders were highly motivating. I built a network of friends and like-minded people. I also developed the ability to pause and reflect, and became more confident in my decisions. I now face challenges more calmly, embracing them with their full richness. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to any woman ready to connect with herself, meet inspiring leaders, and take the next step in her leadership journey.

https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/magdalena_cholakova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=4bf32cbd_0
Magdalena Cholakova
Associate Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship,
Rotterdam School of Management

The program gave me the opportunity to meet inspiring women and colleagues whose experiences and reflections often resonated with my own quests and challenges. Every conversation was a valuable source of new perspectives and a subtle nudge toward personal growth. Thanks to the dedication of the team behind the program, this experience became an exceptionally worthwhile personal investment.

    ticket

    Save your seat

    ticket

    Secure your seat after being accepted into the program with a €250 reservation fee paid upfront. Program seats are limited and filled on a rolling basis.

    The reservation fee:
    • Guarantees your spot in the program
    • Is included in the total tuition
    • Serves as the fee for the 2-week trial period
    Your team

    Your trainers are 
    inspiring leaders

    Learn from the best. You'll be trained by powerful leaders and glass-ceiling breakers, sharing their authentic challenges and experience.

    Lead
    trainer

    Bela Stankova
    Bela Stankova
    Executive coach, Managing Director
    Genevva Coaching
    Contributed to the success of:
    Telerik, Genevva Coaching 
    Bela is an executive coach, facilitator, and Partner at Jonathan Warner, a Netherlands-based leadership consultancy. She has delivered 1,750+ coaching hours with senior leaders across technology, fintech, e-commerce, and professional service. Previously Learning & Development Director at Telerik, she built the company's first internal leadership program. Bela holds a Master’s in Executive Coaching and Sociology, with additional training from Cornell University and Harvard in leadership psychology and executive presence.

    Guest
    lecturers

    Gergana Passy
    Gergana Passy
    Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria 
    Contributed to the success of:
    Bulgaria's accession to the EU, PanEuropa BG, Digital National Alliance
    Gergana Passy played a key role in Bulgaria's EU accession talks and became the first European Minister of Bulgaria (2007-2009). She served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs (2004-2007) and was an elected MP (2001-2004, 2005). As President of PanEuropa Bulgaria and Digital Champion of Bulgaria (since 2012), she founded the Digital National Alliance. She advocates for Europe's and Bulgaria's digital future, including increasing the involvement of girls and women in ICT and transforming education.
    Diana Stefanova
    Diana Stefanova
    Ex CEO of VMware Bulgaria

    MP of BrightCap Ventures

    Contributed to the success of:
    BrightCap Ventures, VMware, Sciant
    Before joining BrightCap, Diana spent 16 years at VMware, establishing its presence in Bulgaria and making it a key global R&D center. She held various leadership roles, overseeing R&D centers in EMEA and global site strategy. With over 25 years of experience, Diana excels in supporting startups, general management, corporate development, and finance, with a focus on high-tech in Silicon Valley and Europe. Diana advocates for improving Bulgaria's business climate, increasing women's presence in tech.  
    Galina Chuleva
    Galina Chuleva
    CHRO, People and Culture, Yettel  
    Contributed to the success of:
    Telenor, Leo Burnett
    In her role at Yettel Galina oversees teams dedicated to people and performance management, corporate culture, and organizational design to drive business success. She holds a master's degree in economics from the American University, Washington DC, USA, and is an alumna of the American University in Bulgaria.   
    Lilia Messechkova
    Lilia Messechkova
    SVP, Product, Digital Experience 
    Progress Software
    Contributed to the success of:
    Progress
    Lilia has nearly 20 years of experience in digital business solutions. Leading a team of over 300, she drives strategic product development. Joining then Telerik, now Progress as a developer in 2011, she advanced through various leadership roles. She holds degrees in Informatics and e-business/e-government from Sofia University and is passionate about supporting tech talent, drawing inspiration from her team's energy.
    Alexandra Mechkova
    Alexandra Mechkova
    CEO,
    Telerik Academy
    Contributed to the success of:
    Telerik, Progress, Telerik Academy
    Alexandra has 15+ years of experience in the technology sector. In the last 6 years, as CEO of Telerik Academy, she transformed the organization into a profitable and growing company with global aspirations, and numerous recognitions as a Leading Company and Employer. She has been recognized as a Female Leader by Forbes and as “CEO of the Year” by b2b Media Group.  
    Svetla Lesova
    Svetla Lesova
    Founder and CEO,
    VIDAS Company
    Contributed to the success of:
    Gillette, Procter & Gamble and Mondelēz International (Kraft Foods) 
    Svetla has over 20 years of experience in fast-moving consumer goods, with a strong track record in both entrepreneurship and corporate leadership. She spent 18 years in global roles, managing business for major FMCG companies like Gillette, Procter & Gamble, and Mondelēz International, with responsibilities across 90 countries in the EEMEA region. 
    Miroljuba Benatova
    Miroluba Benatova
    Co-host and producer
    "Dneven red" and "Televizia po radioto"
    Contributed to the success of:
    bTV, NOVA, 168 Chasa
    Miroluba is one of the most outstanding Bulgarian journalists with 30 years of experience at 168 chasa weekly newspaper, bTV and Nova TV, now focusing on modern digital journalism. Awarded the Grand Prize of the Anti-Corruption Fund "Thin Red Line" (2022), Grand Prize "Chernorizets Hrabar" (2005), Grand Prize "Valya Krushkina" (2014), and the Grand Award "Sveti Vlas" (2016), declined for ethical reasons.
    Ekaterina Nedyalkova
    Ekaterina Nedialkova
    Site Leader and Executive Director,
    Experian Bulgaria
    Contributed to the success of:
    AIG, BNP Paribas Personal Finance
    Ekaterina has been the Site Leader and Executive Director of Experian Bulgaria since 2021. A certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, she has a 17-year career in continuous improvement. Ekaterina joined Experian in 2016 to develop its continuous improvement program and later became Global Head of Continuous Improvement for Experian’s centers in Bulgaria, Malaysia, Costa Rica, and Chile. She now oversees Experian Bulgaria and the Malaysia center, focusing on strengthening the company’s reputation as a top employer, talent hub, and trusted business partner.
    Trayan Trayanov
    Trayan Trayanov
    CEO,
    Teach for Bulgaria/ Заедно в час
    Contributed to the success of:
    Teach for Bulgaria, Arthur D. Little, Mitchell Madison Group
    Trayan has 14 years of experience designing and delivering impactful social interventions. As CEO of Teach for Bulgaria, he leads a team of 40+ professionals and manages а portfolio of programs focused on building leadership capacity in the Bulgarian education system and catalyzing policy reform. Trayan is also a Trustee of the American College of Sofia and holds a B.A. with Honors from Harvard University and an MPhil from the University of Cambridge.
    Ivailo Iliev
    Ivailo Iliev
    Partner,
    Ninety Nine
    Contributed to the success of:
    Ninety Nine Assessment, Management Systems Consulting Corporation, Giunti Psychometric Bulgaria, International Debate Educational Association (IDEA) 
    Ivailo is a seasoned consultant with over 20 years of experience in designing and leading soft skills and leadership development programs for fast-growing organizations. He has supported several of the most successful Bulgarian tech-entrepreneurial companies in their journey to sustainable growth and building organizational capacity. He holds a master’s degree in organizational and labor psychology, and several professional certificates and licenses from CIPD, Management Systems, Human Synergistics.
    Bilyana Savova
    Bilyana Savova
    Owner and Creative Director, Plan to Be Generator
    Founder of Foundation, MS - Moga Sam
    Contributed to the success of:
    Attica Eva Media Group
    Awarded "Woman of the Year Bulgaria" in 2016, "Awakener of 2018," and "Inspirer" in 2018, Bilyana was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 16 years ago. She has since shared her journey of healing and personal transformation. She founded Plan to Be Generator and MS (I Can Do It Myself), offering prevention and natural treatment for those with MS and autoimmune diseases. She also created personal transformation programs like Plan to Be and I AM ME and hosts the podcast "I Am... with Bilyana Savova" on self-discovery.
    Dessie Stoyanova
    Dessie Stoyanova
    Founder and CEO
    How to Speak
    Contributed to the success of:
    bTV
    Dessie is a passionate public speaking trainer and coach. She has trained leaders and key personnel from over 40 Bulgarian companies in presentation and media skills. Dessie believes that with the right motivation, coaching, and practice, anyone can become the presenter of their dreams and achieve more with their public appearances. A Master of Journalism, she brings 25+ years of media experience as a political reporter, lifestyle editor, and TV host. She spent 17 years at bTV, hosting the late morning show Before Noon for 12 years. In 2023, Forbes named her one of Bulgaria’s Top 70 celebrities.
    Dilyana Ocetova
    Dilyana Ocetova
    Senior Director, Data and Analytics
    Liaison International
    Contributed to the success of:
    Liaison International, Carbonite, NGP VAN, QuickPivot
    Dilyana is a data and analytics leader with 15+ years of experience building data products and leading teams across industries like finance, marketing, and fundraising. She heads the data organization at Liaison International and advises startups, mentors women in tech, and supports nonprofits focused on economic empowerment. She holds a Master’s and executive certificates in computer science, data strategy, and AI from Boston University, UC Berkeley Haas, and MIT xPRO.
    Yana Tavanier
    Yana Buhrer Tavanier
    Co-founder and Executive Director, Fine Acts
    Co-founder, TimeHeroes
    Contributed to the success of:
    Capital weekly, Tema, Bulgarian Helsinki Committee
    Yana has a background as an award-winning investigative journalist. She holds a BA in communications and an MA in political science from Sofia University, with additional executive education from Harvard, Yale, Oxford, and NTU-Singapore. She is a TED Senior Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, WEF Young Global Leader, Allianz Foundation Fellow, and was featured in WIRED's Smart List 2012 as one of 50 people who will change the world.

    Mentors

    Rositsa_Boevska
    Rositsa Boevska
    Bulgaria Procurement Center Leader, IBM
    Contributed to the success of:
    IBM, New Horizons, Allianz Life

    Rositsa began her career at the IT learning center New Horizons while still a student. In 2009, she joined IBM as an Operations Buyer for German-speaking countries and progressed into leadership roles across sourcing, supplier management, and procurement. She now leads the Sofia Procurement Center, managing 70+ professionals supporting 50+ countries in 33 languages.

    Lucija Popovska
    Lucija Popovska
    Executive Co-director, MasterPeace
    Contributed to the success of:
    Software Group, Habitat for Humanity International

    Lucija built her career at the intersection of international development and technology, focusing on the financial inclusion of underserved communities. Partnering with vast network of stakeholders, she created systemic solutions across EMEA and Central Asia. Her work enabled access to housing and financial services to millions. She managed diverse teams in the private and NGO sectors in 6 countries. Lucija holds an MBA and training in housing finance and microfinance.

     

    Facilitator

    Simona_Dimitrova
    Simona Dimitrova
    Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant,

    DXC Technology

    Contributed to the success of:
    Hiab, Eviden, Atos
    With experience across talent acquisition, organizational transformation, and labor market trends, Simona helps individuals and teams navigate growth, change, and leadership in a fast-evolving world of work. As a facilitator and mentor, she believes meaningful leadership starts with self-awareness, trust, and connection. She is passionate about creating supportive spaces for reflective learning, authentic conversations, and personal growth with impact.
    Irina_Lilova
    Irina Lilova
    Talent Success Manager,

    Telerik Academy

    Contributed to the success of:
    Telerik Academy, Enhancv
    Irina has 8+ years of experience in the Bulgarian IT industry and background in both corporate and start-up companies. As a Talent Success Manager at Telerik Academy, she is responsible for growing and developing the team, and for the soft skills training and career services, part of the company’s programs for IT career start. 
    Velina Getova
    Velina Getova
    Psychologist and Founder,
    NotYourTherapy
    Contributed to the success of:
    Enhancv, Teenovator
    An executive psychologist, coach, and mental health advocate, Velina's company NotYourTherapy focuses on increasing mental health awareness and education in Eastern Europe, teaching lifelong workplace mental fitness skills. She delivers professional talks and group experiences at conferences like The Bridge, DEV.BG all in ONE, Women Tech Network, and non-profits supporting young people in Bulgaria. Actively engaged in the entrepreneurial community, she coaches founders to improve mental toughness and achieve high results with self-care.
    Viktoria_Karoleva
    Viktoria Karoleva
    Founder,

    F.A.M.E

    Contributed to the success of:
    EY, Karoll, Lazard
    Viktoria specializes in finance, investments, and female entrepreneurship. She is a founder of F.A.M.E., a platform empowering women through capital, mentorship, networks, and resources. An angel investor, startup advisor, and community builder, Viktoria's experience spans EY Bulgaria, Karoll Financial Group, Lazard in Paris, and Schroders in Milan. She holds a Management with Entrepreneurship degree from the UK and is a CFA Charterholder.

    Got any questions about the program?

    



    Connect to the expert trainers for insights and information about the Women in Leadership program.

    Real impact today

    134 years
    are needed to close the global gender gap
    51 cents
    is what women earn for every dollar earned by men
    108 years
    are needed to achieve gender parity in political and economic empowerment at the current rate of progress
    Break down barriers for women leaders, starting with your own story. 
    Curriculum

    Meticulously designed curriculum

    Crafted to accelerate women leaders, our program celebrates stories of courage and resilience. It invites participants to engage in honest conversations about overcoming daily challenges, as we unite to address biases, cultivate authentic leadership, and build strong partnerships.      
    • 01Week 1-4
    • 02Week 5
    • 03Week 6
    • 04Weeks 7-9
    • 05Weeks 10-11
    • 06Weeks 12-13
    • 07Weeks 14-16

    Leading self

    This module deepens your self-awareness and strengthens your ability to respond with clarity, purpose, and intention. You’ll explore how your inner patterns shape your outer impact.

    Build inner clarity and awareness   

    • Explore your relationship with power, time, authority, change, and emotions
    • Identify personal triggers, stress responses, and self-protective habits
    • Understand how internal narratives shape external leadership 

    Vacation

    • A week free of classes to unwind. You'll be able to further strengthen your skills through team assignments.

    Leading self

    Shift from recreating to creating

    • Distinguish between reactive and creator mindsets
    • Practice pausing, perspective-taking, and intentional action
    • Recognize the shift from being externally driven to internally anchored 

    Lead with purpose and discipline

    • Develop inner practices that fuel sustainable, value-driven leadership
    • Learn to prioritize focus and energy over busyness and reactivity
    • Align daily decisions with your deeper personal and professional purpose

    Leading others

    Leadership is a social act. This module strengthens your capacity to influence, build trust, and navigate difficult conversations and power dynamics. You will explore how others experience you — and how to lead with presence and integrity. 

    Learn to create high-performance drama-free teams

    • Learn to create psychological safety and trust
    • Recognize sources of team conflict and transform tension into dialogue
    • Deepen listening skills and emotional attunement 

    Influence and executive presence 

    • Learn to “read the room” and influence without formal authority
    • Practice high-stakes communication: confidence, clarity, and “grace under fire”
    • Understand how to build trust and credibility across power differences 

    Vacation

    • Two weeks free of classes to unwind. You'll be able to further strengthen your skills through team assignments.

    Leading others

    Leadership mind traps and paradoxes

    • Identify limiting patterns like perfectionism, control, and overconfidence
    • Work with paradoxes (e.g., assertive and receptive, bold and humble)
    • Learn when to solve problems and when to manage polarities

    Systemic Awareness & Sense-Making  

    This module expands your leadership perspective to encompass organizations, cultures, and ecosystems. You’ll learn to think systemically, lead through complexity, and design for sustainable impact. 

    Systems Thinking 

    • Understand systemic patterns and how your leadership fits within them
    • Identify leverage points in your organization or context
    • Differentiate between simple problems and complex challenges 

    Complexity thinking

    • Embrace uncertainty, ambiguity, and non-linearity as leadership realities
    • Reflect on how complexity affects teams, change efforts, and your choices
    • How is AI causing structural changes 

     

    Earn a widely recognized certificate

    Upon program graduation, you will receive a certificate by Telerik Academy. The certificate is widely recognized by employers in Bulgaria.

    • Demonstrate that you’re job-ready.
    • Add a recognized credential to your CV and LinkedIn.
    • Share it on social media.

    Default_Certificate_Small

    Want to dive deeper in the program?

    Application

    Is this for me? Yes, if you
    • are a mid- to senior-level professional (with at least 2 years of managerial experience) ready for more visibility, influence, or systemic change 
    • want to move from high performance to high impact
    • crave deeper growth beyond one-size-fits-all leadership advice
    • are company looking to upskill your employees.
      Get in touch
    Do I need previous experience?

    You should have at least 2 years of management experience, regardless of your industry. 

      How can I apply?

      Complete the online application, which includes:

    1. Your CV
    2. Answers to several motivational questions

    Timeline

    • may
    • jun
    • jul
    • aug
    • sep
    • oct
    • nov
    • dec
    • feb
    • May 14 - Oct 25 | Submit application form and CV
    • May 14 - Oct 25 | Submit
      answers to several motivation questions
    • Oct 3 | Application deadline for NGO candidates
    • Nov 3 - Feb 16 | Study at
      Telerik Academy Upskill
    • Nov 13 | Trial period ends
    Important dates
    • May 14 - Oct 25 | Submit application form
    • Nov 3 - Feb 16 | Study at Telerik Academy Upskill
    • Oct 3 | Application deadline for NGO candidates 
    • Nov 13 | Trial period ends 

     *Dates, timeline and curriculum are subject to updates.

    Inspiring passion for learning.
    Changing lives and businesses.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/e2t/learner_6.png?sfvrsn=6e458819_2
    Learner
    at a large Bank

    The time and effort I put into Telerik Academy are among my best investments so far. There is no other tech-ed organization in Bulgaria like the Academy. These are not only my words. I know a lot of expats who came back to Bulgaria and people who quit their jobs or put their university studies on hold to be able to fully dedicate themselves to Telerik Academy.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/e2t/learner_5.png?sfvrsn=1adc2a6a_2
    Learner
    at a large Bank

    The time and effort I put into Telerik Academy are among my best investments so far. There is no other tech-ed organization in Bulgaria like the Academy. These are not only my words. I know a lot of expats who came back to Bulgaria and people who quit their jobs or put their university studies on hold to be able to fully dedicate themselves to Telerik Academy.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/e2t/learner_4.png?sfvrsn=e671f03b_2
    Learner
    at a large Bank

    The time and effort I put into Telerik Academy are among my best investments so far. There is no other tech-ed organization in Bulgaria like the Academy. These are not only my words. I know a lot of expats who came back to Bulgaria and people who quit their jobs or put their university studies on hold to be able to fully dedicate themselves to Telerik Academy.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/e2t/learner_3.png?sfvrsn=dcc95eee_2
    Learner
    at a large Bank

    The time and effort I put into Telerik Academy are among my best investments so far. There is no other tech-ed organization in Bulgaria like the Academy. These are not only my words. I know a lot of expats who came back to Bulgaria and people who quit their jobs or put their university studies on hold to be able to fully dedicate themselves to Telerik Academy.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/e2t/learner_2.png?sfvrsn=7b56b33d_2
    Learner
    at a large Bank

    The time and effort I put into Telerik Academy are among my best investments so far. There is no other tech-ed organization in Bulgaria like the Academy. These are not only my words. I know a lot of expats who came back to Bulgaria and people who quit their jobs or put their university studies on hold to be able to fully dedicate themselves to Telerik Academy.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/e2t/learner_1.png?sfvrsn=8309e444_2
    Learner
    at a large Bank

    The time and effort I put into Telerik Academy are among my best investments so far. There is no other tech-ed organization in Bulgaria like the Academy. These are not only my words. I know a lot of expats who came back to Bulgaria and people who quit their jobs or put their university studies on hold to be able to fully dedicate themselves to Telerik Academy.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/ivelina_100x100.png?sfvrsn=a7ff5dbb_2
    Ivelina Popova
    Quality Assurance Team Lead
    interop.io

    The Upskill Women in Leadership program gave me valuable guidance and additional confidence on my leadership journey. In every lecture, I found something that resonated with me and contributed to my growth. The course confirmed that I’m moving in the right direction and helped me strengthen my trust in my own judgment.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/violeta_slavova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=8c5a647a_0
    Violeta Slavova
    Professional Services Lead,
    SoftwareOne

    One of the most valuable lessons I took away during my participation in the Women in Leadership program is the power of reframing – a tool I have begun to use in both my personal and professional life. I also developed a deeper understanding of the complexity of work–life balance, the necessary compromises that come with success, and the nuanced role that office politics plays in effective leadership. This program encourages deep self-reflection, reminding us that meaningful growth starts by looking inward, because a large part of leadership is rooted in inner harmony, resilience, and adaptability.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/madlena_ivanova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=8bde3afa_0
    Madlena Ivanova
    Test Lead,
    Flutter International

    The Women in Leadership program was a luxurious and transformational journey back to myself. In a world that constantly demands performance, results, and perfection, this experience gave me the rare gift of pausing, reflecting, and reconnecting with who I truly am—beyond job titles, roles, and expectations. It felt like a personal retreat, a therapy session, and a leadership course all in one.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/ivelina_pashova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=15dd2df_0
    Ivelina Pashova
    Head of Model schools program,
    Teach for Bulgaria (Заедно в час)

    During the Upskill Women in Leadership program, I learned how to look at leadership and my personal growth in a new way, and I gained specific tools that help me set higher goals, be more compassionate toward myself, and find new and different ways to balance my various life roles – as a professional, a partner, and a parent.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/elena_naydenova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=95fc2eab_0
    Elena Naydenova
    Talent Acquisition and Development Manager BG,
    Kamenitza AD

    This program was one of the most meaningful and inspiring experiences in my personal growth. The teamwork, self-analysis tools, and examples from experienced women leaders were highly motivating. I built a network of friends and like-minded people. I also developed the ability to pause and reflect, and became more confident in my decisions. I now face challenges more calmly, embracing them with their full richness. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to any woman ready to connect with herself, meet inspiring leaders, and take the next step in her leadership journey.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/default-album/magdalena_cholakova_testimonial.png?sfvrsn=4bf32cbd_0
    Magdalena Cholakova
    Associate Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship,
    Rotterdam School of Management

    The program gave me the opportunity to meet inspiring women and colleagues whose experiences and reflections often resonated with my own quests and challenges. Every conversation was a valuable source of new perspectives and a subtle nudge toward personal growth. Thanks to the dedication of the team behind the program, this experience became an exceptionally worthwhile personal investment.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/dimitar-markov.jpg?sfvrsn=2be75a09_4
    Dimitar Markov
    DevOps Engineer
    SAP
    (Class of 2020)

    Telerik Academy is a great starting point for anyone who wants to jumpstart a career in the IT industry. It provided me with the underlying knowledge and practical experience needed to join the sector.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/kristiyan_tashev_1.jpg?sfvrsn=54797424_4
    Kristiyan Tashev
    Software Engineer
    Gfk

    As a developer with no previous experience in JavaScript, I didn’t feel underqualified or at a disadvantage at any point. We were given hands-on tasks corresponding to our level of expertise and divided into teams where everybody helped each other. To top it off, we often had guest-lecturers providing relevant work-related examples and advice. Something you won’t be able to find elsewhere.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/bozhana.jpg?sfvrsn=9d960838_4
    Bozhana Nesheva
    Front-End Developer
    AIOPSGROUP

    The program included applicable and easy-to-digest insights and assignments that helped me re-evaluate some fundamentals in my work. Plus, I worked on an exciting and very close-to-the-real-world project. Thus, gaining confidence to start using React right away! I’d totally recommend the program to anyone who is looking to upgrade their skill set.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/milena-ivancheva.jpg?sfvrsn=b3f6f43e_4
    Milena Ivancheva
    Marketing Lead
    Just Eat Takeaway.com

    With the help of the Upskill Digital Marketing program, I gained confidence and managed to incorporate new tools and strategies into my work. It made me more valuable to the team and efficient in my day-to-day tasks.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/daniel-dungyov_.jpg?sfvrsn=bd0b2b12_4
    Daniel Dungyov
    UX/UI Designer
    Finovation

    Telerik Academy Upskill is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You learn the best practices in your domain from industry-recognized gurus. They are your mentors, guiding you on the way to your dream job. You also meet and work with amazing people – your fellow learners, sharing ideas and improving yourselves together.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/presiyan_teodosiev.jpg?sfvrsn=c47c7e61_4
    Presiyan Teodosiev
    Operations Manager
    Devlabs6

    Participating in the first edition of the Upskill Product Management program was an extremely rewarding experience for me. The opportunity to gain know-how directly from leading PM experts was nothing less than inspiring.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/sophia_takeva.jpg?sfvrsn=66d058dc_4
    Sophia Takeva
    Business Analyst
    BDO Global IT

    In 3 months, I acquired new knowledge and skills, while working alongside a great group of professionals. Even if you are an experienced Product Manager you can still learn a lot from the lecturers, who are successful experts and entrepreneurs leading their companies and PM teams.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/nikolay_drumev.jpg?sfvrsn=9152ec6f_4
    Nikolay Drumev
    Product Manager
    PubGalaxy
    (Class of 2020)

    The program was very comprehensive and conducted in a way that helped me understand the material, even though I had little direct prior experience. It nurtured me to achieve and learn a lot more than I would expect from any course, and most importantly it boosted my career jumpstart as a Product Manager.

      Tuition model

      Joining Telerik Academy could be your single most important professional decision.

      Pay in installments

      EUR 112.45/mo*

      BGN 219.93/mo*

      for 24 months 
      with a bank partner*

      Apply now

      Pay in full

      EUR 2,499

      BGN 4,887

      full tuition upfront
       

      Apply now

      Terms tailored
      to your needs

      • Early payment price: Receive a 5% discount on your tuition fee if you pay the full tuition fee within 20 days of your acceptance into the program and no later than 20 days before the program start date.
      • The program starts with a 2-week trial period for EUR 250.
      • If you decide to withdraw during the trial period, you will receive a refund of your tuition fee, excluding the EUR 250 trial fee.
      • *Opportunity to pay in installments with a loan from a bank, partner of Telerik Academy - Allianz, ProCredit Bank or TBI Bank (or any other bank to your choice).
      • Candidates working in the NGO sector can apply for a 70% discount off the tuition fee (two per cohort). Deadline for application submission - 3 October.

      *Illustrative installment payment method. Different terms may apply based on borrowers’ credit score and creditworthiness as well as the bank’s current offering.

      FAQ

      What will I learn at Telerik Academy Upskill Women in Leadership program?

      Over the course of four months, you will strengthen your leadership presence by enhancing your inner authority and growing your visibility. You’ll learn how to navigate complex situations by holding tension without rushing to resolution, and develop the ability to build adult-to-adult relationships, leading with empathy, clarity, and strength. The program will also help you recognize and move beyond limiting mindsets and biases, empowering you to lead more effectively and authentically.

      Who can apply and how?

      This training is for you if you have extensive managerial experience (2+ years), and you are aspiring to develop your career by embracing a leadership role.

      You also need to be 18 years of age or older.

      The admission process includes the following steps: CV and application form submission (mandatory), Referral (optional), Interview (upon request).

      Do you offer discounts for the NGO (Not-for-profit) sector?

      Yes, if you are a candidate working in the NGO sector, you can apply for a 70% discount off the tuition fee (two per cohort).

      You must submit your Upskill Women in Leadership application by 3 October and follow the requirements for candidate selection. If you are invited to join the program, your employer will be required to sign a contract with Telerik Academy and cover 30% of the regular tuition fee for the program.

      Please note that the candidate selection process evaluates the candidate’s profile, not the NGO’s.

      Can I choose between online and onsite training?

      The program will be held online. Please note that attendance is key to our students’ successful graduation. Participants must attend all classes. Up to 3 days of absence are allowed, plus the program has 2 vacations (3 weeks in total). 

      What is the candidate selection process for the program?

      We use a holistic review process when evaluating applicants for admission.

      The final selection of candidates is based on a variety of factors: application documents, personal motivation for applying, etc. Some candidates might also be invited to attend an interview to additionally discuss motivation and aspirations.

      What is the length/cadence of the program? Can I balance it with work?
      To get the most out of the program, you’ll need to immerse yourself in it for 4 months. To recharge your batteries, you’ll have 3 weeks of vacation. With classes once a week, this most holistic program makes it possible to also balance work or other responsibilities.
      What does “trial period” mean?
      If you drop out of the program within the trial period, which is the first 2 sessions of the program, you will receive a refund of your tuition fee, excluding EUR 250 trial fee.
      Does Telerik Academy help alumni find new jobs after successful graduation?
      As this is an Upskill program, it isn’t geared towards connecting learners and businesses. But the skills and experience you gain will help you excel in your career, just like it helped our alumni reach their career goals.

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