As part of the WIN – Improving the position of women in the labour markets of peripheral industrial regions project, the Radomir WIN Innovation Group took an important step towards enhancing women’s empowerment in the post-industrial town of Radomir, Bulgaria. In early March, members of the group gathered for a facilitated brainstorming session, during which they agreed to establish a new local association dedicated to supporting women in the region.

With guidance from the National Management School team, the group chose the name Edna ZaDruga—a Bulgarian phrase meaning both “one for all” and “a work formation”—reflecting the initiative’s mission to build capacity, solidarity, and community among women.

Supported by the WIN project, Edna ZaDruga secured a welcoming space on Radomir’s main street, which will host weekly Thursday workshops focused on personal and professional development. The association’s official opening was planned for March 25, bringing together regional stakeholders, women interested in participation, and community members to celebrate the launch and discuss future activities.

In addition, the Edna ZaDruga team organised an enchanted International Women’s Day event on March 8, featuring participatory workshops that combined self-exploration, storytelling, and artistic expression aimed at deepening personal reflection and mutual support. Children of participants were also engaged in creative workshops across the street, making the celebration truly inclusive for families.

This milestone activity directly addresses one of the key challenges faced by women in the Radomir region—the lack of accessible personal and professional development opportunities—and marks a promising step toward creating supportive environments where women can grow, connect, and thrive.

🔗 Learn more about the WIN project: https://interreg-danube.eu/projects/win