Illustration: DARNstudio
Big challenges like the climate crisis can feel overwhelming – that’s why we need inspiring stories that make these issues personal, relatable, and full of possibility.
With this belief at heart, and in collaboration with handplayed, we launched Visions for Change – an initiative to create short, impactful films that reframe the climate conversation in bold, creative, and engaging ways.
Our pilot edition took place in Bulgaria, where a group of emerging directors took part in an intensive bootcamp. Over one weekend, they were briefed by climate experts, supported by creative mentors, and guided by experienced producers. The result: five powerful short films that speak to the heart and imagine brave, hopeful futures.
This is just the beginning. We're excited to expand the Visions for Change format to new places – and new topics – around the world.
ONE SMALL CYCLE
Deyan Tsvyatkov is a multidisciplinary artist engaged in directing, acting, writing, and music. A graduate of the Theatre Academy in Sofia, he began his career in Bulgarian theater before shifting his focus to writing and directing films. To date, he has successfully completed four short films, some of which have received awards. Currently, he is developing a new short film that delves into the lost connection between urban life and nature. Beyond his film work, Tsvyatkov composes synthetic ambient music, and is the pianist in the band The Gentlemen. His artistic vision seeks to merge diverse forms of expression, inspiring reflection and creating meaningful impact.
MORE STORIES. LESS WASTE
After completing her Bachelor's degree in Art Direction from the Royal Academy of Arts in the Netherlands, Raya Rumenova moved to Italy, where she specialized at the production company Cinestudio Milano. There, she had the opportunity to be part of leading video productions for brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Angelo Poretti. For the past 7+ years, Raya has been based in Bulgaria, working on various projects — from commercials and music videos to short films and documentaries. Her background in art direction is key to her work as a director, allowing her to draw on her visual aesthetic to shape and guide each project. To her, every video is a chance to tell a story that emotionally resonates, sparks a conversation, and leaves a lasting impression.
#SAVETHETOMATO
Devina Vassileva graduated with a Bachelor's degree in English and Drama in London and a Master's degree in Film Directing from New Bulgarian University. Her background is in theatre directing and acting. She has focused her efforts on film with her debut short film "FriDgid" (2021) being awarded for "modern and contemporary visionary" at Golden Rose Festival 2021. Currently she is developing her debut feature film and producing for her own company Snop films.
PRESERVE A LEGEND
Georgi Martev received his Bachelor’s degree in Film from the University of Westminster in 2022. His latest narrative work, FROM HERE TO HERE (short), was selected at notable festivals such as the 18th In The Palace International Short Film Festival, 22nd Izmir International Short Film Festival, 25th Sofia International Film Festival, the Bulgarian Film Academy Awards, the 39th Golden Rose Film Festiva, and many others. Co-founder of BYWAYS, a production and service company, celebrating underrepresented stories and empowering young creators. He recently served as creative director, producer, and director on a social campaign for Stray Angels Bulgaria, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing stray animals in need. Selected as Bulgarian representative for the LUX Audience Award 2025.
Huge thanks to the amazing creative mentors & climate experts who supported the filmmakers, alongside the Fine Acts and handplayed teams: Maksim Stoimenov/North Attic Sounds, Vasil Petrakov, Zhelez Atanasov/Noble Graphics, Meglena Antonova/Greenpeace Bulgaria, Violeta Keremidchieva/Za Zemiata, Rayna Popova/WWF Bulgaria, Gloria Marinova/Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation, Blazhka Dimitrova/Zero Waste Bulgaria
The implementation of Visions for Change in Bulgaria is co-funded by Fine Acts & handplayed, with the additional financial support of the Bulgarian Fund for Women
and the European Union.