Prof. Dr. Nikola Vladov, D.Sc., is one of the leading figures in Bulgarian surgery and serves as Head of the Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery and Transplantology at the Military Medical Academy (MMA). Having completed extensive international training, he built his own surgical school that is recognized well beyond Bulgaria's borders. He is the President of the Bulgarian Surgical Society and has contributed immensely to the development of the nation's organ transplantation program. An avid amateur photographer, he loves capturing sunrises around his beloved Sinemorets or above Mount Todorka.
What is your favorite Volvo model?
The XC60 - this is actually my sixth Volvo.
And your favorite route?
Sofia–Bansko and Sofia–Sinemorets. Or perhaps Sinemorets–Belovo–Yundola–Eleshnitza–Dobrinishte–Bansko.
Gas or electric?
Diesel and mild hybrid.
The most interesting place you’ve ever visited?
I’ve traveled quite a bit, but Lake Maggiore is probably the most beautiful and picturesque place to me.
Three places you love?
Italian South Tyrol is one, the Italian lakes, and of course—Bansko and Sinemorets.
What is your favorite time of day?
The morning, specifically early morning.
How did you get to where you are today?
Through a lot of hard work and sacrifice - I’m a surgeon, and that demands an immense amount of dedication.
What truly challenges you?
Complex problems and the unknown.
What do you consider your greatest success?
That I made it this far.
What makes you step on the gas?
Good music, like Chris Rea. It sounds fantastic in the Volvo.
What makes you hit the brakes?
Reason, perhaps.
Which book, song, or movie recently impressed you?
The movie Gundi - I was genuinely impressed. People like him - so dignified - just aren't around anymore, or at least they're very rare.
What motto or creed drives you as a person?
"If not me, who? If not now, when?"