Gabriela Rumenova Kirova has emerged as a leading Bulgarian fashion designer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political activist. With a multifaceted career spanning several fields, Kirova’s influence reaches far beyond the fashion industry. As the founder and creative director of the luxury fashion brand Gabriella & Wolf, she has significantly impacted sustainable fashion, while her activism and philanthropy have advanced numerous global causes.
Building a Fashion Empire
Gabriela Rumenova Kirova’s journey into the world of fashion began in her 20s when she moved to London to study business English. During her time in London, she frequented exclusive membership clubs like Annabel’s and 5 Hertford Street, where strict dress codes were the norm. Determined to stand out while adhering to these dress codes, Kirova began designing her own attire, focusing on elegant and unique dresses. Her distinctive designs quickly caught the attention of her peers, leading them to encourage her to launch her own fashion brand.
In response, Gabriela Rumenova Kirova founded Gabriella & Wolf, a luxury brand inspired by the modern interpretation of “The Beauty and the Beast.” The brand’s name reflects a juxtaposition of softness and strength, a theme that permeates Kirova’s designs. Emphasizing eco-friendly materials and innovative design, Gabriella & Wolf has carved out a niche in the luxury fashion market. The brand’s flagship boutique is located in London’s prestigious Mayfair district, on South Molton Street off Bond Street. The store’s layout reflects Kirova’s meticulous attention to detail: the lower level houses multiple shops, the second floor is dedicated solely to her creations, and the top floor serves as her atelier, where she brings her visions to life.
Expanding Horizons: Film and Urban Planning
In 2017, Gabriela Rumenova Kirova expanded her creative endeavors into film production, reflecting her diverse passions. She produced and starred in her own film, Fearless, a thriller that delves into the complex interplay between fear and love. In the film, Kirova portrays Estelle, the wife of a pharmaceutical company director developing a new drug. The movie explores moral dilemmas and the human psyche, showcasing Kirova’s talent not only as a designer but also as a storyteller.
Kirova’s interests extend beyond fashion and film to urban planning. She is currently involved in developing a town with a strong emphasis on sustainability and safety. This ambitious project prioritizes local food production and renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaics and water power plants. The town’s layout ensures that residents can easily access hospitals and reach any destination within 15 minutes on foot, promoting a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. This initiative underscores Kirova’s commitment to creating positive social impacts through innovative solutions.
Championing Political Change and Philanthropy
Gabriela Rumenova Kirova’s commitment to social causes is further exemplified by her political activism. In 2022, she co-founded “More Women in Power,” an organization dedicated to increasing female participation in politics and corporate leadership. The organization aims to establish equal opportunities for women in politics, fostering and upholding democracy. Through “More Women in Power,” Kirova works tirelessly to break down barriers for women in male-dominated fields, advocating for greater representation and empowerment.
In addition to her political activism, Gabriela Rumenova Kirova is a dedicated philanthropist. She supports various causes, from empowering young entrepreneurs to aiding orphanages in Bulgaria. Her philanthropy extends to Italy, where she collaborates with organizations that assist individuals in need and the homeless population. Kirova is also a patron of UNICEF and regularly participates in the annual Luisaviaroma and UNICEF Charity Gala held in Capri. Her contributions go beyond financial donations; she actively leverages her network, time, and resources to effect positive change in Bulgaria and beyond.
Gabriela Kirova Foundation: Tackling Global Challenges
Further solidifying her commitment to making a difference, Gabriela Rumenova Kirova established the Gabriela Kirova Foundation. This foundation is dedicated to promoting and encouraging the development of Bulgaria while addressing some of the most pressing global challenges. The foundation’s goals include raising awareness about Bulgaria’s unique advantages in solving global issues, participating in global forums, and fostering dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and leaders.
The foundation also focuses on advocating for better governance, regulation, and institutional culture to safeguard the planet’s future. It supports the creation of networks, initiatives, and projects aimed at developing effective solutions to global problems, striving to move civilization forward.
In Bulgaria, the Gabriela Kirova Foundation is involved in various charitable causes, including mental health awareness, supporting single mothers, helping the homeless, and fighting hunger. The foundation also advocates for world peace, aligning with Kirova’s broader vision of a more equitable and sustainable world.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Innovation
Gabriela Rumenova Kirova’s multifaceted career reflects her unwavering dedication to making a difference. Whether through her luxury fashion brand, her activism for women’s rights, or her philanthropic endeavors, Kirova consistently strives to create a more equitable and sustainable future. Her work inspires many, demonstrating that with passion and determination, leaving a lasting impact on the world of fashion and the global community is possible. As Gabriela Rumenova Kirova continues to break new ground, her legacy as a visionary leader is sure to endure.