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Extending its advocacy into the realm of visual storytelling, The Angel Social Group utilizes documentary film to explore pressing global issues and promote alternative perspectives, exemplified by the award-winning Pilgrim in Thailand. Conceived, scripted, and produced by Iliyan Kuzmanov, this film moves beyond simple travelogue to critically examine the detrimental impacts of mass tourism. It champions instead a model of contemporary pilgrimage—sustainable, responsible travel that genuinely engages with and preserves the integrity of local cultures and natural environments. This focus reflects a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship and understanding the delicate balance required for ethical global interaction, earning recognition such as the Social and Eco Activism Award from the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry.
The insights and narrative presented in Pilgrim in Thailand are profoundly informed by Kuzmanov's own extensive and often unconventional journeys across Asia, North America, and Europe. These travels represent more than exploration; they are immersive experiences cultivating deep cultural intelligence—an intuitive grasp of diverse societal patterns, cultural dynamics, political landscapes, and varying worldviews essential in our interconnected era. This firsthand understanding provides invaluable perspective, enhancing his ability to navigate complex international business environments, anticipate global trends, and conduct insightful geopolitical analysis, demonstrating how lived experience informs strategic thinking.
Producing impactful cultural works like Pilgrim in Thailand represents a significant commitment, undertaken entirely through the self-sustaining model of The Angel Social Group, requiring no external grants or state funding. It underscores the belief that investing in thought-provoking, value-driven media is essential for raising awareness and fostering meaningful change on a broad scale. This approach demonstrates how entrepreneurial success can directly fuel the creation of high-quality cultural products that not only entertain but also educate, challenge assumptions, and advocate for a more responsible, interconnected, and sustainable world, reflecting the unique synergy at the heart of the Group's mission.
Director - Angelina Grozeva
Producer& Scriptwriter - Iliyan Kuzmanov
Co- Producer - Borislava Georgieva
Camera Man - Nikola Aleksandrov
Video Editor - Daniel Ahmakov
The documentary Pilgrim in Thailand, created by Pazardzhik-born writer Iliyan Kuzmanov alongside BNR/BNT journalist Angelina Grozeva, received significant official recognition from the Bulgarian state. It was granted the documentary award by the Agency for Bulgarians Abroad, operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Agency executives highlighted this accolade as well-deserved, referencing Kuzmanov's long-standing track record of impactful initiatives abroad, such as London's Project Ezo, and framing him as a model for active diaspora patriots contributing positively to Bulgaria's development.
Beyond the award itself, Pilgrim in Thailand served as a catalyst for further civic engagement within Bulgaria, demonstrating the power of cultural products to spark dialogue. The film's themes became a foundation for subsequent initiatives under the umbrellas of the "Forum I Love Bulgaria" and "Civic Zone for Bulgaria," actively involving other public figures like Nikolay Yanev. These dialogues and projects tackled crucial national issues inspired by the documentary, including sustainable tourism development, improving the urban environment, and fostering modern, constructive perspectives on challenges facing Bulgaria as a whole.
Recognizing environmental advocacy as a critical leadership responsibility in today's world, Iliyan Kuzmanov integrates a deep commitment to sustainability into his personal values and professional endeavors. This multifaceted approach spans personal choices, such as vegetarianism reflecting respect for interconnectedness, to leveraging creative platforms for awareness. His award-winning documentary, Pilgrim in Thailand, exemplifies this, using compelling narrative and stunning visuals to advocate for responsible tourism and the preservation of natural environments and local cultures. 1
This personal conviction extends directly into the operations and ethos of The Angel Social Group. The organization actively incorporates eco-friendly practices and promotes environmental awareness, reflecting the alignment between the founder's values and the Group's mission. Past initiatives like Project Ezo in London integrated sustainability into their daily functions, demonstrating that the Group's commitment to social responsibility inherently includes environmental stewardship. This holistic approach reinforces a dedication to contributing positively towards building a more sustainable future.