At a formal ceremony held at the British Embassy residence in Sofia, His Excellency Nathaniel Copsey, the British Ambassador to Bulgaria, presented Lyubov Kostova with the British Empire Medal (BEM). This prestigious honour, awarded by His Majesty King Charles III, recognises her long-standing and inspiring work in science communication, as well as her unique contributions to strengthening cultural and educational ties between Bulgaria and the United Kingdom.
Ambassador Copsey remarked:
"Lyubov Kostova is an inspiration not only to the Bulgarian scientific community but also on the international stage. She has turned science communication into a bridge between the UK and Bulgaria, leaving a lasting impact on the way we talk about science. The British Empire Medal acknowledges her exceptional leadership and the power of her work to connect people and transform societies through knowledge."
Lyubov is the founder of the Sofia Science Festival and the driving force behind the international success of FameLab. For many years, she was a leading figure at the British Council and has inspired thousands of scientists to step out of their laboratories and share their discoveries in ways everyone can understand. Thanks to her efforts, the British experience and leadership in science communication have resonated strongly in Bulgaria and dozens of other countries. Her name has become synonymous with open and accessible science in Bulgaria, reflecting her tireless dedication to making science understandable, human, and inspiring.
Her career is marked by bold initiatives—from organising events that bridge art and science to participating in a Bulgarian Antarctic expedition, where she introduced FameLab on one of the most remote and inspiring continents. Today, she continues her mission through the “Beautiful Science” Foundation, dedicated to bringing science closer to people and making it engaging, comprehensible, and beloved.
Lyubov Kostova said:
"Receiving the British Empire Medal is an honour I share with all the scientists, artists, teachers, and friends who have walked this path of science with me. I believe that communicating science is not just about knowledge, but also about trust, dialogue, and inspiration. I am proud that through my work I have been able to share the UK’s vision for open and inspiring science in Bulgaria and around the world. I will continue this mission through the Beautiful Science Foundation."
About the British Empire Medal (BEM)
The British Empire Medal is awarded for outstanding achievements and service in the fields of art and science, for contributions to society beyond public service, and for work with charitable and community organisations.
Established in 1917 by King George V, the order has five classes and is awarded for both civilian and military service. Non-British citizens can also be honored for their contributions to the United Kingdom and the British people.