The Horizon of Dreams

It all started when I was flipping through the pages of a popular magazine that echoes the stories of contemporaries who had achieved unprecedented success in the fields of business, finance, and economics. I enjoy reading them because each time, I learn how different people found their way to success. But the story in this particular issue surpassed anything I had read before. It made me believe that the horizon of dreams is attainable. But not only that, it energized me to pursue and capture it. It was the story of a young entrepreneur named Nikola Likov, whose unwavering commitment to his dreams landed him among the top ranks of the most successful and promising young people in Bulgaria.

Although I do not believe in coincidence because I consider it a reflection of synchronistic patterns, fate offered me the opportunity to meet a person who made this unique life expedition to the Everest of world business — Nikola Likov. I was strongly impressed and eager to find out what are the markers on the path that successful people follow to reach the foothills of the peaks, as well as those who are determined to climb them. I wanted to learn how to read the coordinates and thought that he could show me.

When I first met him, it was immediately clear that his friendliness and humility were genuine, and he was eager to share about his professional journey. But what really stood out was his way to success. “It all started with my childhood in my hometown of Kardzali; my family, of whom I am very proud, and my friendly environment played a major role in shaping me as a person and achieving what I have,” Likov says.

Nikola grew up in a loving family with a strong father figure and a caring mother who instilled in him the values of ambition, compassion, and devotion. He credits this atmosphere of boundless love and support for his unwavering confidence and the groundwork it laid for his future accomplishments. As Likov, himself, stated: “I believe, I am convinced, that everything starts in childhood. This is the period when we truly form ourselves, and from which our principles and goals crystallize and make us who we are.”

At the young age of 18, Likov’s entrepreneurial spirit came to light when he identified a problem that plagued all of his peers and fellow citizens — the absence of international music in his hometown. Driven by his desire to make a difference, Likov founded Elta Club. A nightclub that not only brought together people of all ages but also became a catalyst for his ability to create value. As he reflects, “I always had this feeling that I want to create something meaningful. I don’t want to be a by-seater. I want to be a main character.”

Likov fondly remembers how quickly Elta Club gained popularity and became one of the most sought-after places in Kardzali. People would even stop him on the streets, eager to book a reservation. This moment marked the start of a thrilling new phase in his life, brimming with hope and prospects for success. He says that establishing Elta Club granted him a feeling of independence, allowing him to pay off his parents’ loan and partially fund his education abroad. Nikola describes this achievement as a form of superpower, empowering him to pursue his aspirations and ambitions.

After graduating from high school in 2015, Nikola had to choose a university that could equip him with the knowledge and skills necessary to pave his path to success. Nonetheless, the development of his superpowers truly began when he was admitted to the distinguished Warwick Business School in England, the place he chose as the starting point for his success. “I knew that I wanted to study the arts and crafts of entrepreneurship. The University of Warwick was number one in the investing business at the time. So, it was not even a question anymore,” Likov explains.

Leaving for England was not easy for him. No longer after, challenges took a toll on his academic performance, leaving him struggling to meet the requirements of the educational institution. Likov recalls feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty and difficulties he encountered in this new and unfamiliar environment, separated from his family and loved ones, with just a 32kg suitcase in tow.

As doubts began to cloud his mind, Likov found himself questioning his choices: “Why am I doing this? Shouldn’t I just give up and go back?”However, according to him, the struggles and hardships transformed his thinking and paved the way for his emotional and professional success. “There are countless ways to reach the horizon of your possibilities and dreams, but this was my own. Everything that happened to me was my responsibility, both good and bad. Only when I accepted this responsibility I was able to thrive,” Nikola believes.

Despite all challenges, Likov’s path led him to become one of the top 5% of graduates, recognized for their outstanding academic achievements. His inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who motivate and encourage you to improve constantly. Reflecting on his achievement, Likov recognized that graduating with a first-class degree taught him that he can achieve anything if he stays focused and has a supportive network around him. He acknowledges that his success would not have been possible without the help and encouragement of his friends, who Likov lived with and motivated each other throughout their academic journeys.

Nikola Likov’s journey took a new turn at the age of 21 when he began his professional career at Founderslane, a corporate venture builder in Berlin. “This time, I brought not only my suitcase but also the confidence and knowledge that I was worthy of success.”

Upon joining his team in 2017, Nikola had specific aspirations to become a startup investor, contribute to the Bulgarian startup ecosystem, and make it to Forbes 30 Under 30 list. With his goals written down on paper, which at the time seemed unattainable, Nikola was motivated to work hard to accomplish them. “I had no idea how I was going to make it, but I was willing to work hard. If what you are striving for really resonates with you, you will keep pursuing it no matter what it costs you,” he shares.

During his first years in the company, Likov surrounded himself with people more experienced than him. He recalls that he carefully observed their habits, actions, and skills to understand how they achieved success and what they did with it.

Rather than feeling discouraged, I was motivated to improve and learn from my colleagues’ knowledge.” — Nikola Likov

Likov’s relentless pursuit of excellence and motivation paid off when he met his mentor and boss, Felix, whose guidance allowed Likov to reach his potential and show everyone that he could achieve great things. As Likov explains, “You need somebody to get you off the ropes, and you need to feel the pain of not having any idea of how to deal with everything.”

Nikola’s hard work and determination did not go unnoticed. In other words, in 2021, his mentor, Felix, recognized his potential and made Likov his partner in the company — a testament to Likov’s dedication and expertise. “I have really shown that I am capable of learning. I have shown that I am a learner. I greatly reduced my ego and showed everyone that I was able to accept criticism and keep improving,” Likov says.

A few years later, Nikola proved that everything written on his piece of paper was achievable. At only 26 years old, he has been recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30, played a crucial role in the Bulgarian startup ecosystem, and has been selected as a chairman of Power of BG (the Bulgarian Entrepreneurship Organization). Reflecting on his election as a chairman of Power of BG, Likov shares: “It was one of the most impactful things I have ever seen with my own eyes. Everybody has their hand up voting for me. I wondered how that was even possible. That’s when it kind of struck me, my time has come, and I don’t want to go back. Rent is due daily from now on.”

Currently, Likov’s responsibilities extend between Sofia, Riyadh, Prague, Berlin, and London. “I always thought entrepreneurship is a superpower. Takes courage, collaboration, manifestation. But life is so much more than that. It’s a constant struggle for equilibrium. Health, wealth, relationships, spirit & soul. A symphony we all need to master while chasing the horizon” Likov says.

Despite all his professional commitments, Likov is keen to share Bulgaria’s values and treasures with the world. As part of his mission, he visits educational institutions and cultural centers, including the one where he spent more than a decade practicing traditional folk dances, and motivates young people to follow their dreams. As Likov explains, “By doing so, I hope to show the richness of Bulgaria and inspire people worldwide to appreciate its unique identity and potential. I want to be a good example and strive to represent Bulgaria in the best possible way through my actions.”

Nikola Likov’s story is a true testament to the transformative power of gratitude, diligence, and loyalty. He is a shining example of what a person can achieve through relentless dedication, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Although Nikola’s journey is far from over, he will continue to inspire many, including me. Personally, I see him not only as a role model but also as a mentor guiding me toward achieving my dreams. As for Nikola, he continues his exhilarating journey of discovering new horizons and accomplishments.

“Set your sights on the horizon, as it will always be ahead of you,” Nikola Likov concluded.

As a student currently pursuing a double major in Business Administration and Journalism and Mass Communications, Ivan-Svetoslav Petrov is committed to creating value and making it accessible to people.