Ivaylo Gatev: diplomat & Researcher

What was your pathway to your current career?

The pathway to my current career was long and convoluted. Nothing was planned. Even though I studied international relations at university, it took me a long time to find a job in diplomacy. When the opportunity finally presented itself, I was ready for it and stepped into my new role with confidence and ease.

What motivates you in your personal and professional life?

Curiosity and interest is what drives and motivates me. I need to keep learning in order to stay motivated. When I find myself stuck in a rut doing routine uninteresting work, I usually ask to be reassigned to a different role within the same organisation or change my place of work altogether.

How do you handle challenges and setbacks? Have you ever experienced a major setback that led to som

Everyone has setbacks in their career and/or personal life. Once I was passed up for promotion. Instead of dwelling on the disappointment, I quit my job and eventually found something much more interesting. It turned out for the best, and every step since has only confirmed it.

Have you had a mentor or role model who influenced your life or career? Can you share an example?

Not really. When I was young, I tried to model myself on people I admired. Eventually I understood that everyone's abilities and circumstances are different and cannot be replicated.

What is the best advice (personal or professional) you’ve ever received?

In the practice of diplomacy there is no place for effort.

If you could share one message or piece of advice with teens all around the world, what would it be?

Do your best. Do not expect a result as the outcome of your actions is often down to chance.