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

 

Overview

Evolve. Empower. Lead. 

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

This program is about transformation from within — real growth, real shifts, real leadership. 

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. 

Secure your spot early

Admissions are on a rolling basis. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot. Key application deadlines: 23 June, 4 August, 1 September

Program duration

4 months. You can combine the program with your job  

Lectures

Tuesday (4:00-6:30 pm). 
Once per week. Start: October 21, 2025; End: Feb 3, 2026

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

BGN 4,300 (VAT incl.)

EUR 2,198.56 (VAT incl.)

Got any questions?

Ask our experts about the program. Submit your question!

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

1The most holistic Women in Leadership program The program fosters honest conversations about being a successful female in Bulgaria and abroad. Through three critical lenses - self, others, and systems - we create a safe space to explore new ways of leading
2Unique learning experience Gain deep leadership insights with a strong emphasis on community-building and group support through experiential individual and group exercises.
3Learning from the best Meet some of Bulgaria's best female leaders and brightest minds, who will share real-life experience and become your mentors.
4Strong professional network Gain access to a network of ambitious women and build relationships with like-minded peers.
5Investment in yourself You already have the skillset. What will set you apart and help you advance is to learn how to navigate challenges and act with confidence.
Alumni Success

Breaking boundaries. Empowering leadership

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.

    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, an executive coach with over 1300 coaching hours, serves leaders from 25+ nationalities at companies like Uber and Amazon. Formerly the Learning & Development Director at Telerik, she designed their first internal leadership program. Bela holds a Master's in Sociology, a BA in Political Science with a specialization in Rhetoric, and post-graduate diplomas in HR and Executive Management.
    She has received training from institutions such as Hult Business School and Harvard, focusing on leadership paradoxes 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.  
    Velina Getova
    Velina Getova
    Founder,
    NotYourTherapy
    Contributed to the success of:
    Thrive Partners, Enhancv
    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.
    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. 
    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.
    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.
    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. 15+ companies have trusted her to train their leaders in presentation and media skills. 500+ attendees have participated in her Media Speaking Fundamentals seminars. She believes that with the right motivation, coach and practice anyone can excel in public appearances. Master of Journalism, she has 20+ years of experience as political reporter, lifestyle editor and TV host. For the last 12 years she hosted bTV's morning show "Before Noon". In 2023 Forbes recognized her as one of the Top 70 Bulgarian celebrities.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    Tzvetanka Mintcheva
    Tzvetanka Mintcheva
    CEO and Chairperson of the MB
    UniCredit Bulbank
    Contributed to the success of:
    UniCredit Bulbank
    Tzvetanka joined UniCredit in 2001, holding various roles in Bulbank Bulgaria's Retail Division. She led the development of alternative distribution channels from 2007 and became Head of Retail and MB member in 2013. In 2017, she led the Global Banking Services Division, and from 2020 to 2021, served as Deputy CEO of UniCredit Bank Romania. Since 2021, she has been CEO and Chairperson of UniCredit Bulbank. She also holds leadership roles in the Council of Women in Business and the Association of Banks in Bulgaria, and was named Manager of the Year in 2023.
    Milena Dragijska
    Milena Dragijska
    CEO, Lidl Bulgaria
    Contributed to the success of: 
    numerous organizations, led ESG initiatives and industry advancements
    Milena has been managing Lidl Bulgaria since 2007 when the chain prepared to enter the Bulgarian market. She began her Lidl career in Germany in 2002 as a Regional Sales Manager. At the company's headquarters, she was responsible for various international projects. Currently she is also a member of the Association for Modern Trade’s board of directors and serves on the boards of the German-Bulgarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, the America for Bulgaria Foundation, BESCO—the Bulgarian Startup Association, and the Bulgarian Business Leaders Forum.

    Mentors

    Eva Vucheva
    Eva Vucheva
    Co-Founder of Fashion Days,
    Founder and GM of Contento.Tech
    Contributed to the success of:
    Contento.Tech, Fashion Days, Endeavor, Sanoma, Sciant
    Eva is the founder and General Manager of Contento.Tech, a niche BPO company dedicated to empowering people through automation and decentralized work-models. A dynamic serial entrepreneur, she is among the co-founders of Fashion Days, is an active member of Endeavor Bulgaria, and serves as a board member and mentor to numerous scale-ups in the CEE region. 
    Bistra_Koseva
    Bistra Koceva
    Procurator,

    Karoll Capital Management

    Contributed to the success of:
    Karoll Capital Management
    Bistra has been working in the capital markets sector for over 20 years. She serves as the Procurator of Karoll Capital Management, overseeing business development processes, as well as client relations and communications. Her team is responsible for personal finance training and partnerships with institutional, corporate, and private clients.

    Mentors

    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.
    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 130+ professionals supporting 50+ countries in 33 languages.

    Facilitator

    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. 
    Maria Georgieva
    Maria Georgieva
    SEO Manager, Payhawk
    Contributed to the success of:
    Progress, RAABE Bulgaria
    Maria has over 8 years of experience in digital marketing, specializing in SEO for the last 6. Currently, she is SEO Manager at Payhawk - the first Bulgarian unicorn. She believes that the best website for search engines is the one optimized with users in mind.
    Rumyana Kercheva
    Rumyana Kercheva
    Senior Consultant, Paid Growth, VertoDigital
    Contributed to the success of:
    Extreme Networks and SnapLogic
    Rumi's focus is paid advertising and performance optimization for scale in B2B Technology scale-ups. Over the years she’s experimented with different lead generation strategies, and gained valuable knowledge. Her passion is LinkedIn and using its firmographic and psychographic data for research, targeting, and business insights.
    Paulina Tsolova
    Paulina Tsolova
    Director Demand Generation, Progress
    Contributed to the success of:
    Telerik, Progress, Ogilvy Public Relations
    Paulina has 10+ years of experience in different B2B marketing areas, including product positioning and messaging, content marketing, digital campaign management and running the Demand Generation team for a high-velocity business. Her biggest interest is finding weak spots in the marketing funnel and coming up with creative solutions to increase sales.

    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 

     

    Want to dive deeper in the program?

    Check out our free resources
    WL_Free_Resource_2

    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
    • feb
    • May 29 - Sep 29 | Submit application form and CV
    • Jun 30 | Early bird application discount
    • May 29 - Sept 29 | Submit
      answers to several motivation questions
    • Oct 21 - Feb 3 | Study at Telerik Academy Upskill
    Important dates
    • May 29 - Sep 29 | Submit application form
    • Oct 21 - Feb 3 | Study at Telerik Academy Upskill

     *Dates, timeline and curriculum are subject to updates.

    Tuition model

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

    Pay in installments

    BGN 193.5/mo*

    EUR 98.93/mo*

    for 24 months 
    with a bank partner**

    Apply now

    Pay in full

    BGN 4,300

    EUR 2,198.56

    full tuition upfront
     

    Apply now

    Terms tailored
    to your needs

    • *Early Bird Price: Complete your full application by June 30 with code EB5, and you will get a special Early Bird discount (5%) from your tuition, applicable if you choose monthly payments or full upfront payment
    • Tuition fee can be paid by either you or your employer upfront.
    • **Opportunity to pay in installments with a loan from a bank, partner of Telerik Academy - Allianz, ProCredit Bank or TBI Bank.
    • Deferred payment over 12-24 months’ period.
    • Candidates working in the NGO sector can apply for a 90% discount off the tuition fee (two per cohort).
    • Drop-out with no consequences up to 2 weeks of the program start.

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

    Inspiring passion for learning.
    Changing lives and businesses.

    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.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/valentin_tchergarsky.jpg?sfvrsn=76110679_5
    Valentin Tchergarsky
    Senior Product Manager
    Healee
    (Class of 2020)

    This is a world-class training, covering both in theory and practice all key areas of Product Management. It features interactive and dynamic lectures, led by brilliant experts. I highly recommend it to any individual wishing to start or upskill as a PM professional.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/denitsa_kusheva.jpg?sfvrsn=ea95499b_3
    Denitsa Kusheva
    Marketing Professional & UX/UI Enthusiast

    The program is an outlier because it simulates a real-life experience. I value the opportunity of creating a tangible product – addressing the needs of the users and improving their experience.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/martin_tsekov.jpg?sfvrsn=919a17f4_3
    Martin Tsekov
    UX Designer

    From defining the business goals and the user personas to creating a polished user interface, the course was invaluable to my future career development. I highly recommend it!

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/maria_sufieva.jpg?sfvrsn=1c5f58c2_3
    Maria Sufieva
    Freelance Illustrator

    The course provides a comprehensive hands-on experience, which strikes the right balance between theory and practice. The program taught me how to prioritize functionality, simplicity, and consistency over spontaneous decisions in my design. Not to mention the great improvement in my teamwork and presentation skills.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/elena_draganova.jpg?sfvrsn=15a5392d_3
    Elena Draganova
    Independent UX/UI Designer

    As a graphic designer, the UX part was a completely new area of expertise for me. The course helped me learn the fundamentals and practice the new skills by creating a product from scratch. The overall vibe of the program was both competitive and interactive, stimulating both my personal and professional growth.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/richard-haywood.jpg?sfvrsn=a645824d_3
    Richard Haywood
    Head of
    Ocado Technology Sofia

    The program covers a range of Product Management essentials which will empower people to start or continue their Product Management journey. It is great that Telerik Academy is offering this course as I am sure that many people will find it both interesting and very useful.

    https://www.telerikacademy.com/images/default-source/testimonials/stefan-stefanov.jpg?sfvrsn=c9d0fce6_3
    Stefan Stefanov
    Senior Manager, Product Management and Product Marketing
    Progress

    For everyone looking to get into the world of Product Management this course, taught by the professionals at Telerik Academy, is the best place to gain practical experience in today's leading practices for Product Management.

      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 90% discount off the tuition fee (two per cohort).

      You must submit your Upskill Women in Leadership application 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 10% 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 “two-week trial period” mean?
      If you drop out of the program within the trial period, which is the first 2 weeks of the program, you won't pay any tuition.
      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.

      Have other questions?

      Drop us a line and we'll get back to you shortly.

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