Bulgarian American
Heritage Center & Library
Our Mission
MAGURA Cultural Center is dedicated to celebrating and sharing the richness of Bulgarian culture, arts, and heritage with the Bulgarian American community in Chicago. We strive to create experiences where tradition meets creativity, bringing together generations and offering a space for learning, expression, and connection through literature, music, visual and performing arts, film screenings, and community programs.
Through our events, initiatives, and partnerships, we nurture curiosity, inspire creativity, and cultivate cultural identity. Our mission is to preserve Bulgarian traditions, pass them on to new generations, and make culture a living, accessible, and meaningful part of everyday life—connecting people, enriching communities, and keeping the spirit of Bulgaria alive beyond borders.
Our History
Magura Cultural Center was founded in 2015 with the vision of creating a space where Bulgarian culture comes alive and generations connect through art, literature, and tradition. It’s first decade, the center has become a vibrant hub for music, theater, visual arts, and film screenings, while its library and bookstore provides the community with rich access to Bulgarian literature.
Today, Magura is entering an exciting new chapter. Through events, programs, and partnerships with other organizations and venues, the center continues to uphold its mission and spirit—to preserve and share Bulgarian traditions, inspire and enrich the community, and make Bulgarian culture a living, accessible, and engaging experience for everyone who wishes to explore it.
Board of Directors
The Magura NFP Board of Directors dedicates their time, energy, and expertise to support our nonprofit mission of preserving and sharing Bulgarian culture, fostering creativity, education, and community.
NADIA
JELIAZKOVA
JOHN
KEANE
VENTSI
VELIKOV
Provides vision and leadership, represents the organization publicly, and oversees the implementation of our cultural and educational programs.
Responsible for the financial stewardship of the organization, ensuring transparency and sustainability in all our initiatives.
Keeps the official records of the organization, coordinates communication, and ensures smooth governance of the board’s activities.
BONKA
GEORGIEVA
ZLATOMIR
MOLDOVANSKI
Contributes expertise and support in programming, partnerships, and community outreach.
Strengthens the mission of the organization through event support, fundraising, and volunteer engagement.
The Board of Directors unites its efforts to uphold Magura’s mission – to keep culture alive, and to foster a community that learns, celebrates, and connects.
We honor and thank our founders
Nadia Jeljazkova, Stanislav Stanimirov, and Valentina Limov—for their vision and dedication in creating Magura Cultural Center.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to former board members Kina Bagovska, Vanya Kramer, Simona Rollinson, and Angela Georgieva, as well as to the countless volunteers whose energy, passion, and commitment over the years have brought our mission to life. Together, they have shaped Magura into a vibrant community where Bulgarian culture thrives and continues to inspire.