Concord Origin Story: Rayna Peneva

In the world of comic books, origin stories inform the reader of the identity and motivations of heroes and villains (thankfully, we only have the former here). Like Spider-Man or Captain America, your origin story is important as it defines who you are today. Learn about the experiences, people, and influences that shaped Concord's Rayna Peneva by reading below!

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria.

Do you have a favorite family tradition?

My favorite family tradition is the Easter ritual of painting eggs and baking the traditional sweet bread called "Kozunak."

Who’s someone who’s made a big impact on your life?

My parents. They gave me life and raised me with so much love, devotion, and unconditional support.

What’s one of your favorite places you’ve ever been?

Sardinia and Corsica—the most beautiful Mediterranean islands. It feels and looks like you are in paradise. The nature, the local food, and the people are astonishing.

Can you share an experience that helped shape who you are?

My studies at the French Lycée Alphonse de Lamartine in Sofia. The teachers, the culture, the other students, and the overall atmosphere and mindset of this school shaped me as a citizen of the world, living my life guided by the principle of Voltaire (one of the most influential French philosophers of the Enlightenment era), which is to respect diversity and the perspectives of everyone: "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."

What’s your go-to comfort food?

Dark chocolate.

How did you end up in your current career?

We are living in unprecedented times, with technology developing so fast that we need to adapt to the new reality on a daily basis. Being a lifelong learner is what motivated me to start my current career in the technology sector.

What’s a hobby or activity you really enjoy?

Scuba diving, horseback riding, ballet, and golf.

When’s a time you felt really proud of yourself?

I always feel proud of the achievements of my teams. The greatest reward for me is seeing how young professionals from my teams develop into successful field experts, consultants, and managers.

What was your first job, and what did it teach you?

My first job was in commercial banking at one of the largest multinational banks in Bulgaria. The financial industry taught me discipline, strategic thinking, risk management, negotiation, presentation and sales skills, as well as responsibility and stress management.

What’s something people are surprised to learn about you?

I was a professional dancer until I was 14 years old, and I traveled across Europe as a child with the Dance Ensemble.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?

Love yourself as you are!