Today we interview a George Kyriacou, a mix of British and Greek-Cypriot, and we invite you to meet him, and his story.
Name and nationality :
George Kyriacou -Dual National (British, born and raised – and Greek-Cypriot)
Tell us a bit about you?
I am the founding partner of Mesogio Limited. I assume the roles of project lead, creative director and spearheads mesogio’s content production.
After studying business and languages in the UK, and politics in France, I found my passion in developing creative content with a cause and never looked back.
I have spent several years working as a journalist, and as media and communications adviser to the European Commission, Transparency International and a number of businesses before launching mesogio.
I speak, read and write English natively, and totally fluent in French, Greek and Spanish and comfortable in Bulgarian and Italian.
Why and when did you come to Bulgaria?
The first time I moved here was for under two years, back in 2004. We recently re-relocated back here in 2016
What do you like about your country?
UK: The UK is an enigmatic country with a number of complexes. However, there is many a benefit to growing up in the UK as a Brit, such as when you want to get things done, the only way is to look forward. This is what characterizes Brits.
Cyprus: We are free in our nature as Cypriots, a very MEditerranean nation – whom enjoy food and fun, family and conversation – and despite current affairs positing Cyprus as predominantly Greek when it comes to cultural heritage, I as a Cypriot am proud to share a number of influences in my DNA which stem from a handful of pivotal ‘invaders’ on this small island (Venetians, French, Ottomans, Hellenes, Brits).
What differences do you see in your country and Bulgaria? Bulgaria is a country that is desperately trying to belong. After a long stretch of time in the dugouts, and a number of wrong turns throughout history – Bulgarians and their hegemony want to set the country on a path to freedom of expression, choice and character. So far, it has not done too bad. However, the differences from my countries of origin and Bulgaria – are that in the UK and Cyprus – we do not really wear the complexes of feeling inferior to any other nation. In Cyprus, we are naturally confident as a nation – and in the UK we have the flipside to that, where oftentimes we are regarded as not caring much about the rest of the world. Bulgaria needs to solidify its identity via its glorious nature, it’s proud history and needs to avoid comparing itself to other nations – as cultural benchmarking won’t serve it in the long run. It has so much more to offer. Offer itself first and foremost, then offer to the rest of the world.
What do you like about Bulgaria?
I absolutely adore its nature, its flair for culture, art and history – and the true sentiments all people of all generations have toward children here. They love them an treat them almost as their own 🙂
What have been the document/procedure most difficult for you in Bulgaria?
None really. Except that strangely as a business owner here (registered and tax paying for 6 years) – I have needed for the past two to renew my ID card every year. Other than that, I know what it’s like to work for the public sector, so whenever I am at the authorities, I am sympathetic and try and make the staff there feel that they are doing a good job and always wear a smile. And they do their job much more effectively (at least that’s my feeling)
Mention one important experience you’ve had in Bulgaria
The most important is being with my Bulgarian life partner for the past 13 years, whom I’m constantly seeking more information from about her culture – and having our daughter here with us who has a lot of fun :). Generic, but important as an experience nonetheless.
Do you speak other languages?
Yes! My native languages are English and Greek and am fluent in French and Spanish. My Italian friends say I speak their language well but like to correct me when I make mistakes (which I also like). My Bulgarian is pretty good now as well 🙂 My daughter helps me there!
have you visited other countries?
Many and I intend to visit many more. Almost all of the EU countries, except for Slovakia, Estonia, Malta and Sweden. I have worked, studied (and hence lived) in the UK, Cyprus, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Lithuania, Luxembourg and now Bulgaria.
What advice would you give to other people who would like to come to live in Bulgaria?
Come free of expectations, read nothing beforehand, make a bunch of friends who like to explore, who enjoy music, and make them feel good about where they’re from. Once you’ve told a Bulgarian they have a particular element of life they should be proud about, you’ll make friends. Forever. Oh and travel – Bulgaria is gorgeous. Just careful with the drivers!
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