About us
Who we are
Natural Choice Foundation is a public-benefit organisation founded on the belief that farming can provide good food without taking from the future of nature and people. We work for more sustainable and responsible production, for soil fertility, for less harm to the environment and for the wellbeing of people and animals.
Our goal is to turn sustainable practice from a good idea into a real and accessible choice. That is why we bring together education, scientific knowledge, partnerships and direct support for farmers and local communities. We believe change begins with an informed choice — from how we care for the soil to the products we support and use every day.
Our mission
To support the development of sustainable and organic farming through environmentally responsible practice, education, research, partnerships and hands-on help for farmers. We want more people to understand the direct link between healthy soil, clean nature, good food and a good future for society.
Our vision
We see a future in which farming works in harmony with nature; producers have the knowledge and support for a sustainable transition; local communities have access to good local food; and the choices each of us makes help protect soil, water, biodiversity and the climate.
Activities
What we do
Education and training
We run workshops and training courses and produce educational materials on the principles and practice of organic and sustainable farming — for farmers and for the wider public alike.
Research and innovation
We support and promote scientific research into organic farming techniques, soil health and sustainable production. We encourage solutions that combine productivity with lower environmental impact.
Partnerships and cooperation
We work with Bulgarian and international organisations that share our goals, so that we can exchange knowledge and good practice and increase our combined effect.
Support for farmers
We provide information, resources and expert support to producers who want to move from conventional to organic and more sustainable methods, invest in certification and improve their infrastructure.
Work with local communities
We encourage initiatives such as community gardens, farmers' markets and a direct link between the farm and the table. This builds a stronger connection to the land and supports the consumption of locally produced organic food.
Care for nature
We show the role of organic farming in limiting climate change, protecting biodiversity, conserving water resources, capturing carbon in the soil and reducing the use of harmful chemicals.
Principles
Our approach
- we connect scientific knowledge with the practical needs of farmers;
- we work through partnerships and the exchange of good practice;
- we involve local communities and encourage active participation;
- we look for solutions with long-term benefit for people, animals and nature.
Experience
Experience and expertise
Practical experience
For several years, the foundation has donated fertilisers to support the agricultural work of a monastery on Mount Athos. This long-term commitment combines environmental responsibility with practical assistance to a community that cares for the land and preserves its cultural and spiritual heritage.
Since 2018, the foundation's representative has delivered one annual training course in Bulgaria for traders and consultants working with organic fertilisers. The training develops knowledge of product application, effects on soil and plants, and professional guidance for farmers.
Education and research
Master's degree in International Business — VINS, Varna, Bulgaria; PhD candidate researching “Organic Fertilizers and Their Effect on Crop Quality”.
The research connects practical agricultural experience with an in-depth study of soil fertility, plant nutrition and crop quality.
Professional training
Systematic Facilitation — David Vilotta, July 2018; Art of Hosting — Maria Scordialos, Plovdiv, September 2018; Business Constellations — Martim Meima, Turin, Italy, June 2019; Integral Facilitation — David Vilotta, July 2019.
These learning experiences have strengthened capacity in group facilitation, systemic thinking, organisational development, participatory dialogue, international cooperation and sustainable partnership-building.
Partnerships
European and international cooperation
Natural Choice Foundation is registered in the Organisation Registration System for Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps under OID E10438321.
We are interested in projects related to sustainable agriculture, non-formal education, youth development, soil health, food quality, biodiversity, green skills and rural development.
What we bring to partnerships
We offer a combination of scientific knowledge, practical agricultural experience, training capacity and group facilitation skills. We can contribute to training courses, workshops, youth exchanges, demonstration activities, educational resources and community engagement initiatives.
People
Team
Behind Natural Choice Foundation stands a team with experience in project development, communications, community work and promoting sustainable solutions.
Dilyana Blagova
Head of the foundation
Maria Guteva
Lead coordinator
Maria has over 7 years of experience in digital marketing, communications and online content. She holds a degree in Mathematics and Informatics and has completed two further programmes in digital marketing. As lead coordinator she organises activities, events, partner communication and outreach for the cause.