Raya graduated from the Sofia High School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, specializing in 'Park construction and landscaping' in 2015. A few months later, she began a seven-year journey at the University of Forestry, majoring in 'Landscape Architecture', which she ultimately chose not to complete. During her studies, she interned at various organizations, including studio 'Viridis' and 'Sofiaplan,' where she gained valuable insights into the practical aspects of both the private and municipal sectors.
In 2018, her turbulent student years and thirst led her to Rijeka, Croatia, to the 'Re:EASA' event. There, she discovered both experimental education and a group of like-minded individuals. This experience sparked a series of events focused on exploring the intricate relationship between spaces—their creation, perception, and sharing. She actively participated in and organized various workshops, discussions, and events.
Raya has a deep interest in playful environments, particularly to so called 'adventure playgrounds', and she resonates with the 'Anji Play' educational approach that encourages kids to explore and learn through play.
In the spring of 2021, she became involved in the 'OneTree' initiative as a Green expert. She took part in various events aimed at educating citizens about the platform for gathering data on urban trees.
Between 2020 and 2023, she collaborated with landscape architects Maya Choleva and Stoyan Nachev in the field of design. Notable projects they worked on together include Kindergarten No. 193 'Slaveyche' in Sofia and a closed residential project called 'Kanso, again in Sofia. During this period, she also designed and executed with her bare hands her very first independent project for 'other architecture bureau'.
Over the next two years, life managed to confront her with a series of intense personal earthquakes, which forced her to start writing and drawing.
Now she writes and draws.