It is not very often that we tell the stories of our people’s families, but here is one that is worth it. Silvia Dyanova is a front-end developer at ICT Strypes, part of one of our biggest teams. Alex is her son whom we admire for his curiosity, persistence, and inquisitive nature. Although he is just 14 years old, Alex has already achieved one of his biggest dreams and become a role-model to his peers.
A Truly Interstellar Passion
Alex was just a kid when he discovered his love for space exploration. An item brought home by his parents accidentally sparked his curiosity towards life beyond the Earth. And this interest kept growing in the next few years while Alex attended classes in space science at school and topic-related events.
Gradually, this interest turned into passion and real dedication to exploring space as he made his first achievements related to his hobby. We are proud to share that Alex took part in a contest and became one out of 40 children between the ages 11 and 15 to be invited to Space Camp Türkiye 2024 – a major annual event for the ones who are really keen on space and see themselves as young explorers.
Space Camp Türkiye: An Experience of a Lifetime for Alex Supported by ICT Strypes
Space Camp Türkiye offers young talents an extraordinary adventure and their first hands-on experience related to space and the cosmos. Located in Izmir, Türkiye, this training center is designed to mirror the NASA Space Camp and serves as the only such facility for Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The camp’s initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of explorers through interactive simulations, real-life examples from cosmic endeavors, and the chance to experience life as an astronaut. Completing this program is not only a thrilling journey for youth but also a significant accomplishment recognized by schools and universities during admissions.
Alex was thrilled to be accepted into the 2023 edition of the camp, but due to unforeseen events in Türkiye, the organizers decided to postpone it to 2024. Despite the delay, Alex’s enthusiasm remains as strong as ever, and his dream of attending the camp is still very much alive. We’re delighted to play a part in helping him seize this life-changing opportunity, and we look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish.
“It is not just enthusiasm, it is also dedication you need to prove in order to be admitted to the Camp. My application was one of over 400 by children in Bulgaria, but there were only 40 of us who made it to the program with a scholarship (25% percent covered expenses) and around 30 more who were also accepted to participate in the camp. I would like to thank ICT Strypes for their support and trust in my potential, and for the experience they have ensured to me – a lot of challenges, great adventures, knowledge, and tons of new contacts and friendships only for a week at the camp! I realize that very few of my peers have ever had the chance to go on a space mission or wear a space suit!” – shares Alex about his experience at the Space Camp.
“I would also like to express gratitude to my mentors – Mrs. Srebreva and Mrs. Stoyanova from “Alexander Georgiev – Kodzhakafaliyata Primary School” who accompanied me during the camp, believed in my skills and success and taught me to work hard and think out of the box.”
Accelerator for Growth & Success
Space Camp Türkiye has been more than a pastime for children. The program aims at challenging their communication skills, collaboration, and motivation, not only for space exploration, but also for managing tasks and projects, and working as part of a team.
“You would immediately notice the difference as Alex came back from Türkiye. Since then, he has become even more passionate about and aware of space, but has also improved his soft skills significantly. I am glad that he has taken on a way that would make him grow in the field of space and technologies, also inspired by my own career path at ICT Strypes. I believe more great achievements are yet to come for him.” – shares Silvia about Alex’s passion and participation in the camp. “I would also advise all parents to support the dreams and passions of their children, regardless of whether they are in sports, science, technologies or something else. Children are much more creative and likely to succeed when we don’t impose limitations on them and truly envision their success.”
Yes, the camp has just been a catalyst for his development in the technologies of the future. Beginning this autumn, Alex continues his studies in Application Programming at the Professional School for Computer Programming and Innovation in Burgas.
“The Space Camp adventure has just boosted my interest in the space & technology field. Having already had this great milestone, I would say that every minute spent on this passion of mine was worth it! I would advise all my peers to never stop chasing their dreams, no matter how big they are! Hard work, motivation, and determination always pay off!” – concludes Alex about his experience and future plans.
As Alex continues to pursue his passion for space and technology, we at ICT Strypes are thrilled to have played a role in supporting his journey. We are excited to see what he will achieve next and are committed to encouraging not only Alex but also all our employees and their families in pursuing their dreams. By fostering an environment where passions are nurtured, we believe in helping our people reach for the stars—both literally and figuratively.
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