Validated Expert info
Expert can perform the Lead expert role and Ad hoc expertise missions at network and programme level in relation to:
1. The design and delivery of (transnational) exchange and learning activities
2. Thematic expertise:
[Circular economy, Strategic urban planning]
3. Methods and tools for integrated and participatory approaches:
> Securing funding and resourcing
> Sustaining stakeholder engagement and translating strategies into actions
Summary
WE ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE - TOGETHER.
With a strong commitment to driving positive change and working in the sustainable environment field for 20+ years, my professional and personal experience as an expert, head of departments and divisions, deputy mayor of the Bulgarian capital, National focal point for European institutions and organizations, consultant, advisor, mother of lovely children and a volunteer, brought me to a point where I realize that true change, both behavioral and structural, takes place in cities. As a passionate advocate for strategic, enduring approaches that nurture urban spaces and economies for a fairer society, my background is rooted in economics, shaped by environmentalism, and driven by a calling to urbanism.
In my understanding, cities have the power, insights and tools to bring into human lives positive change through evolutionary approaches in reshaping the urban environment, fostering innovations, ensuring climate-resilient development and protecting nature. They are also the spontaneous partner for the business to promote and support economic growth through aligning policies and organizing urban action to maximize the benefit of emerging and well-established economic practices. Our lives are centred in cities and the latter should excel in establishing conditions that are fair, participatory, clean and supportive for people, movements and economic entities.
I believe vision and knowledge combined are powerful tools to prepare for and trigger positive, human-centred impact. My expertise in strategic guidance and hands-on experience in more than 150 initiatives and projects in the fields of environment, sustainable management, institutional and capacity building, green infrastructure, circular economy and stakeholders' involvement can support cities in their missions of transformative urban sustainability. I am convinced words, visuals, leading by example and fair sharing of knowledge /both positive and negative lessons/ should go together as there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution and these key elements are fundamental for capturing know-how, developing strategies, involving stakeholders, avoiding pitfalls and fostering sustainable action. Being, in addition, an attentive listener, I am keen on identifying what works best for the client and how to adapt it further to match the local context while providing outstanding results.
To get a quick insight into my background, I suggest you look at the associated links and also at:
https://ebrdgreencities.com/assets/Uploads/PDF/Sofia-GCAP_ENG.pdf
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=474517116340726&set=a.474516876340750,
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=474517003007404&set=a.474516876340750,
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=474517263007378&set=a.474516876340750,
https://www.themayor.eu/en/a/view/the-initiative-new-forest-in-sofia-starts-this-saturday-481,
https://www.sofia.bg/en/trifocal
I am excited to join the URBACT IV network as a Validated Lead and Ad-hoc expert, collaborating towards the transformative change of our cities and communities. Together.
With my very best regards,
Ioana Hristova