Bulgarian teacher in Sydney turns 100, receives greetings from King Charles III

Bulgarian-born Gina Kozhuharova, who taught generations of students at the English Language High School in Plovdiv, has celebrated her 100th birthday in Sydney, Australia. To mark the occasion, she received an official congratulatory letter from King Charles III, Australia's head of state. The news was shared by the Rodina Bulgarian Cultural and Social Association in Sydney.

Decades after leaving the classroom, Gina Kozhuharova is still fondly remembered by her former students in Bulgaria.

“She taught us not only the finer points of English pronunciation, but also good manners and, above all, love and compassion,” one of them wrote in a comment on the association's post.

Gina Kozhuharova has strong ties to the Bulgarian community in Australia. Her brother, Stefan Kozhuharov, founded the Rodina Bulgarian Cultural and Social Association in Sydney and was awarded the Order of Australia for his contribution to society and the Bulgarian community.

For the association, her centenary is also a tribute to the generations of Bulgarians who have kept their identity and traditions alive far from home.

Rodina wished her good health, peace and many more happy moments with her loved ones. And the messages from her former pupils in Bulgaria are a touching reminder that, even after all these years and thousands of miles, a much-loved teacher is never forgotten.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova