Boosting happiness with the Well-Being Group at EPAM Bulgaria

At EPAM Bulgaria, we work hard to develop successful and innovative technology projects to support our customers, partners and communities. But we still find time to have fun—because the secret to keeping ourselves innovative is creativity, enthusiasm and dedication. Our Well-Being Group provides the spaces and opportunities for employees to pursue general physical and mental wellness, supported by resources at work. Learn more about our local Well-Being Group in this dual interview!

What does our Well-Being Group do?  
Our Well-Being Group is the driving force behind activities that promote the physical and mental health of EPAMers, while also fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection. This group organizes various events, such as mountain hikes, volleyball training, running marathons, sports camps and more! The hard work the Well-Being Group does provides EPAMers a much-needed break from their busy work schedules.

The group also organizes mental health and wellness events, offers resources through online community support, and organizes free, anonymous counseling sessions with professionals for employees.

Our employee-leaders, Ivaylo Pashov, Solution Architect II and Svetoslav Minev, Senior Systems Engineer, share their team-oriented stories, challenges and experiences from joining the Well-Being Group.

Ivaylo Pashov, Solution Architect II

How did the idea for the creation of the Well-Being Group in EPAM come about?

Quite spontaneously, about a year and a half ago, we gathered a team of people who have interests related to both sports and the organization of events and a common goal—to make the work environment in the company more vibrant for others.

To our colleagues, our visions may seem homogeneous, but it took time and teamwork to embed everyone's views into a holistic experience, such as any event of the Well-Being Group.

What is the importance of sport for you in organizing some Well-Being Group events? How does sport help us to be more productive?

Sport is rooted in my daily life; I often exercise twice a day. Usually, my day starts with a short workout to wake up instead of a cup of coffee, and in the evening, after work, I lead workouts with friends and everyone who wants to join.

Sport teaches us perseverance and discipline, and with it we balance more easily in everyday life, relieving ourselves of tension and giving us the confidence to cope with challenges.

Is it difficult to organize initiatives for many people? How does this help you in your daily work?

It is not difficult. Especially since the work is a joy for me! Our Well-Being Group has developed many experiences for employees, including everything from sports camps, and summer offices located near the beach, to volleyball and football teams. We also host weekly runs and gatherings in the mountains.

For our colleagues, it may seem simple, but we often discuss options and details at length to ensure it is presented seamlessly. Of course, the most difficult thing is to make options that are suitable and interesting for everyone. Our goal, besides sports, is to include a social element with exciting adventures that inspire us.

What is the most positive effect from these events?

All the positives that arise from the sport are present, but besides them, our events have a very strong social effect, and colleagues feel more complete as part of the group. 

Svetoslav Minev, Senior Systems Engineer

How did the idea of organizing free meetings with psychologists for employees come about?

The idea arose after I noticed the need for mental health support for my colleagues in the company. I realized that providing psychological help and support can create a healthier and more productive work environment. I understand that each of us faces challenges and needs support when we feel overwhelmed or emotionally vulnerable.

How does it enrich the company's other well-being activities?

These sessions help employees overcome problems of a different nature, so that we feel good inside and out. Caring for the mental health of our colleagues is important, so I am very happy that we can provide it. The organization of meetings with psychotherapists complements existing physical health programs and plays a crucial role in improving mental well-being.

What are the plans to develop the program and support the mental health of colleagues?

Our desire is to provide greater access to psychological assistance for all employees who need it. We also want to encourage open discussion of mental health issues and create a culture of support, understanding and solidarity among our employees. Our plans include validating the program and developing it more broadly.

Interested in joining EPAM and learning more about our supporting employee groups? Visit epam.com/careers/.