Arts Education Archives

Viktoria Mihaylova and Gabriela Partovska launched ViPart School in 2023 with the goal of helping voice students of all ages gain confidence. Mihaylova told us, “We wanted to fill a gap in the arts education community — a place where learning is personal, expressive and transformative.” Mihaylova’s own journey in the arts began on the stage, where she learned that the voice is more than sound – “it is emotion, presence and truth.” As Mihaylova began to teach music, she realized that guiding others to find their own voices was one of the most powerful things a person can do, and thus, ViPart School was born. Today, Mihaylova and Partovska have expanded into additional locations, and now teach dozens of students. Here's our lightly edited Q&A with Viktoria Mihaylova, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project. How is your business different from others in your industry? We combine vocal and instrumental training with a completely modern approach to teaching. Our methodology integrates physical exercises, stage presence techniques and personalized guidance, creating a fully immersive learning experience. Beyond teaching, we act as mentors and friends, supporting our students not only during lessons but throughout their artistic journey. This allows children, teens and adults to grow as performers and as individuals, building confidence, self-expression and a love for art that goes beyond traditional instruction. Tell us about your biggest success so far. Expanding into two additional branches in Bulgaria. We are exploring new horizons both within the country and abroad, and we now have over 100 students. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? Managing operations across multiple branches while ensuring that every student and staff member receives proper support. To address this, we constantly adapt our strategy according to the market and the needs of our students. Flexibility and clear communication are key — by staying organized and maintaining an open line with our team, we ensure that lessons run smoothly and students continue to grow creatively. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? My previous professional experience as a vocal teacher in other schools and educational institutions has greatly influenced my business decisions. Teaching in different environments taught me patience, and how to adapt to each student’s needs — knowledge that I now bring to our own school. At the same time, balancing work with family life has been an important factor in shaping how we run the school. I have learned to organize schedules, support my team and remain flexible, ensuring that both professional responsibilities and family commitments are met. This balance has taught me empathy, resilience, and the importance of creating a nurturing environment for both students and staff. What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? Stay flexible and listen to both your team and your market. When we started, we had lots of knowledge and skills but almost no money. Our dream began in a small, under-renovation room, yet through hard work, creativity and perseverance, we have grown it into a thriving school in a large space. How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? By returning to the heart of why we started — the voices, the music, and the dreams of our students. I remember shy children learning to sing for the first time, teens discovering their confidence on stage, and adults reconnecting with their passion. Their courage, curiosity and joy remind me that even in the hardest moments, art can heal, uplift and transform. I also draw strength from the love and support of my business partner and dear friend, Gabriela Partovska. It is this friendship and shared passion that fuels us to keep going, to believe in possibilities, and to remember that every small note, every shared melody, is a light in the darkness. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? I love all kinds of music, and the songs that motivate me really depend on the mood of the day. On tough or dark days, I pick a melody that lifts my spirit, reminds me of why I started, and gives me the energy to keep going. Who is your most important role model? Leaders who combine vision with teamwork and mentorship. I am inspired by people who know how to guide large teams, collaborate with partners, and empower others to grow. As directors, Gabriela and I strive to embody these qualities every day. Share your story! Check out more stories about women in businessWatch our latest videosSubscribe to our podcast

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