Before joining ECAS, Maria gained extensive experience in roles across the NGO, public, and private sectors. As Senior Expert for European Policies & Education at Plovdiv Municipality, she developed and managed EU-funded projects, promoting the region as a hub for education and business. Maria also held leadership roles in international NGOs, including Project and Programme Manager at BG Be Active in Bulgaria and Country Programme Manager at FutureSense Foundation in Thailand, where she focused on citizen engagement, civil society, community development, education, and sustainability.
Maria holds a Master’s Degree in Business Strategy from the University of Valencia, and a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management from Bournemouth University. She is also a trustee for a youth organisation in Plovdiv focused on promoting social inclusion, community development, and individual empowerment through education, training, and volunteering.