About me
Hello! I’m Simonida, founder of Folk Fest Buscador, and a passionate advocate for folk culture and international cultural exchange.
I am a proud member of IOV (International Organization of Folk Art), CID – International Dance Council (Conseil International de la Danse), CIOFF (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts) and I serve as the Head Delegate for the Balkans for Festifolk World.
Journey
My journey in folklore began at the age of six, when I first stepped onto the stage as a dancer. Over the years, I developed my path within the professional folklore world — and like many dancers, that identity never truly fades.
For over 20 years, I have worked in coordinating, organizing and advising folk groups for international tours and festivals. Having once been a performer myself gives me a deep understanding of the challenges groups face in finding reliable, safe, and well-organized opportunities abroad. This perspective helps me guide each group toward festivals that truly match their size, style, and resources.
Goals
My goal with Folk Fest Buscador is to make international festival participation simple, transparent, and trustworthy. I focus on matching groups with the right festivals while building mutual trust between organizers and performers — with safety, clear communication, and well-planned trips always as the top priority.
Service
Folk Fest Buscador brings together verified open calls, key festival information, practical guidance on participation, and curated cultural routes — all in one place. The platform helps festivals become more visible and increases groups’ chances of successful applications.
In addition to the platform access, I also work directly with groups and organizers who need personalized guidance and coordination. Folk Fest Buscador is here to simplify your search, and I am here to guide you every step of the way — whether you are a director seeking reliable opportunities, a festival looking for quality applications, or a group ready to explore the world.