NOVA's Parent Teacher Association (PTA) organized the 10th annual PTA Family Bazaar, fundraising over 4000 euros with the combined goals of improving conditions for the children and youth with impaired vision from the state school “Dimitar Vlahov” and supporting NOVA’s extracurricular activities.
The event was open to the whole community with the motto “Equal opportunities for all children”. Intended for the whole family, delicious food and treats were offered at the international food tables, prepared by NOVA parents, with assistance from their respective embassies. The outdoor grills prepared by the American and Macedonian tables were responsible for more than half of the funds raised, selling hamburgers and “Destan” kebabs, attracting many hungry patrons.
On craft tables inside the school, artisan goods made by local craftsmen were on offer. Representatives from the beneficiary “Dimitar Vlahov” school were also present at the PTA Family Bazaar, raising awareness for their cause and presenting hand made goods created by the school’s students.
The children’s corner proved to be the most popular spot, with this year's theme being “The Farm”. Children had the chance to pet animals, hug cuddly rabbits, and even ride a pony, while learning about the farm, wild life, and reptiles. There was a photo booth available where children could take pictures with some of their favorite animals, such as the albino piton and various lizards.
NOVA’s focus on education is evident in all aspects of the school's activities, and the Family Bazaar was no exception. In a special book corner, children had the opportunity to enjoy reading and collecting English language books. The Bazaar's focus on child literacy was an especially rewarding aspect of the event, contributing to the fulfillment of NOVA's educational mission and vision.
Throughout the event, NOVA students provided entertainment to the Bazaar guests with their dance, song, and music performances. Visitors were also treated to a special performance by a “Dimitar Vlahov” student.
Visitors had a chance to try out their luck in the Bazaar lottery. Over 120 valuable prizes were donated by the event’s respected and generous sponsors for inclusion in the lottery. During the lottery drawing, the PTA presented a 1000 euro dental voucher from Endomak to a student from “Dimitar Vlahov” in need of braces.
The charitable nature at the heart of the NOVA community was demonstrated by a NOVA kindergarten student. This student won the lottery’s main prize, a 250 euro cheque from Halkbank, and then donated the prize to the“Dimitar Vlahov” school. This donation was matched by one from the Qatari Embassy.
All in all, the NOVA PTA marked the Bazaar's anniversary celebration in grand fashion, putting together one of the best attended events thus far. The PTA are already hard at work preparing for next year’s event.
