12. jun 2025

Interview with Pavel Andreev for the Macedonian media Vecer.mk

🔗 Click here to read the interview on macedonian media Vecer.mk

(You can read the full interview in English a few lines below 👇)

In the interview, you will read how Pavel Andreev, founder and CEO of the platform PavelAndreev.ORG, made the journey from constructing buildings to building hope. He shares insights about the challenges, his motivation and vision, as well as the future and success of the crowdfunding platform across different countries.

How Macedonians Unite for Good Causes: Pavel Andreev of pavelandreev.org Speaks

From building structures to building hope – Pavel Andreev's journey is proof that professional success and social responsibility can go hand in hand. In this interview, we discuss the challenges, motivation, and vision of Pavel Andreev – founder of a crowdfunding platform – for its future and success in the Republic of North Macedonia.

Mr. Andreev, could you describe in a few sentences what you do, since when the PavelAndreev.ORG platform has existed, and what its purpose and mission are?

Currently, I am involved in the development of an international crowdfunding platform through which we raise funds for medical and non-medical campaigns. I am currently focused on building local audiences, such as in Macedonia, to support Macedonians who help other Macedonians. The platform was launched in 2021, but the activity I carried out before that was in the initial stage, of an amateur nature. Everything is now developing at a professional level, and the campaigns in the Republic of North Macedonia prove it – in just 9 months, Macedonians raised about 450,000 euros for their fellow citizens in need! Our goal is to raise funds for various causes that cover both medical and non-medical needs. We work to organize transparent and professional management of campaigns that help those in need!

What would you say to people who believe that "charitable causes are the job of the state, not ordinary people"?

These people are right, I agree with them! The social sector, foundations, and associations actually fill the gaps in society that are the result of insufficiently good policies, no matter which country we are talking about. It is no coincidence that especially in the Balkan Peninsula, funds are often raised for medical campaigns – this is a clear sign that the medical system is not well developed or has some problems. In some countries, fundraising for treatment is not necessary, which shows that the healthcare system there functions well. However, in these countries, funds are also raised for other social causes. Nevertheless, we are all part of one society, and it is important to lend a hand to each other. Should we let people starve or die from diseases? There is no way we cannot help when there is a need.

What motivates you to keep going, even when you encounter difficulties? What is the driving force for a person to help?

At different stages of the platform's development, my motivation changed. In the beginning, I was motivated to achieve successful campaigns every few months. Then I aimed for one successful campaign per month, hoping to see as many people healed as possible. You know that treatment often takes a year or even longer. Later, I gathered a team with whom we managed to make the process more efficient and professional. Today, after years of effort, I am proud of the imprint we leave on the societies of the different countries in which we work. My goal is to extend this positive effect to many more countries. My dream is for the platform to cover all 195 countries in the world and for us to continue to leave positive traces in every society in which we operate.

Are Macedonians compassionate people?

Very! You are a nation that can serve as an example – compassionate, warm-hearted, and full of empathy! This compassion and willingness to help not only make you unique but also inspire everyone around you to be better and more humane.

How is the platform developing in Macedonia? What are the results so far?

More than great! Between 40 and 50 campaigns have been organized – some of them have already ended, others are still ongoing – anyone can enter the platform and make a donation. So far, from Macedonian campaigns for Macedonian beneficiaries, we have raised about 450,000 euros. This is an exceptional result for such a short period, and it is possible thanks to your empathy and compassion, as I mentioned earlier. Without your support and activity, this success would not have been possible!

You have encountered many cases and causes. What advice would you give to someone who needs help but is afraid or ashamed to ask for it?

Knowing people in need and understanding their psychology, especially that of donors, we come to one important conclusion – the shame of asking for help is actually more of a prejudice in the mind of the person in need than a real problem. Ask for help – it is not undignified, on the contrary, it is dignified because it means you are opening up to others and sincerely want help! There is nothing shameful in asking for help – whatever it may be!

How, in what way should the culture of giving be raised?

Responsibility in charity has two faces – both donors and organizations. For organizations, it is important to provide clear and accurate information so that donors are well-informed. On my platform, we strive to be completely transparent in every aspect to ensure the trust of our users. For their part, when I talk to donors or campaign initiators, I always try to provide clear information and advice to help them make the right choice. Despite everything, in the end, the most important thing is for donors to have the desire to raise their giving culture. It is important to recognize fake campaigns so that they are not misled and can make their contribution in the right direction.

How can we tell if a charitable campaign is fake or a scam?

Fake charitable campaigns can be easily organized, so it is important to donate through platforms with many years of experience that provide protection and legal responsibility. But, if you have still decided to donate to a personal account, check if there is social proof and medical documentation for the organized campaign. The lack of these is a red flag! Check the facts and look for social proof to be sure of your donation! On our platform, we always check medical documents before a campaign starts.

What message would you leave for our readers?

The motto of the platform is: "Every cause is worthwhile." Find a campaign or your cause, embrace it with all your heart, and get involved! Leave a positive imprint!