Rayna Petkova (1895–1957) was a pioneering social worker in Bulgaria and one of the first trained professionals in the field. Initially aspiring to be a teacher, she became involved in the women's movement and developed a passion for social policy. After receiving training in Germany, she returned to Bulgaria in the early 1930s and played a key role in establishing institutions for social welfare. Petkova's extensive publications were influential in shaping the state's role in protecting citizens and her innovative methods for collecting and analyzing data, particularly related to youth, homelessness, and crime, set the standard for future researchers. Despite her significant contributions, Petkova faced ostracism and police surveillance after World War II until her death.Born in Tarnovo, Bulgaria, on September 10, 1895, to a traditional family, Petkova initially faced resistance to her educational pursuits. After completing her grammar school education, she attended the Girls' Gymnasium in Pleven and later studied law at Sofia University. Despite restrictions on employment in the legal profession, she joined the Ministry of Finance after graduation. Influenced by leaders of the Bulgarian women's movement, she pursued further education in Germany, where she gained insights into women's social organizations and pedagogical work. Upon her return to Bulgaria, Petkova worked in various roles related to child protection and social services while actively contributing to publications on pedagogy, police work, and women's issues. Her research on