Personal

I was born and raised in Bulgaria, Eastern Europe. Bulgaria is a beautiful country located North of Greece and Turkey, South of Romania and West of the Black Sea.

I had the best childhood. My parents took the family and I skiing every weekend they could. We spent at least a month at the Black Sea at camp “Gradina” (“Garden”) where we camped on the beach enjoying the sound of the surf and the sea breeze.  We swam, windsurfed, fished, played Bocce, participated in sports events and carnivals that our parents organized and roamed the campground free and safe. My best memories are from these summers.

At the age of 18 communism fell and I started Milena windsurfing school and rental business. I learned that if you are passionate and have a remarkable product or service people will begin talking about you. Word of mouth is the best way to bring customers back. Customer service and a remarkable product or service are what bring people back.

In1995, I graduated with the first commencement of the American University in Bulgaria. Upon graduation I began my marketing career as  Sales Promotions and Special Events Manager in charge of worldwide known brands as Marlboro, Pepsi, Kamenitza beer (a subsidiary of Stella Artois), Johnnie Walker and more.

I continued my education by pursuing an MBA in the United States. I attended USIU (United States International University), now Alliant University, San Diego campus,  in their International Marketing Program. 

I interned and later became a full-time employee with EXL Media, a media agency company located in Incline Village, Lake Tahoe.  I was involved with marketing and media for travel, recreation, and hospitality clients while still pursing my passion for skiing and the outdoors. After 5 years at EXL Media, I accepted a position for Marketing Director with Incline Village General Improvement District (IVGID).  I was hired in 2001 and I’ve been there since then. I’m still doing what I love (marketing) and enjoying the incredible skiing, golfing, tennis and recreation facilities that IVGID operates.