Turkish member families of the Global Philanthropists Circle graciously hosted other GPC members from around the world, engaging them in topics of youth education, women's empowerment, Turkish art & culture and more, with discussions and site visits to local programs in Istanbul. Participants learned of the pressing issues facing Turkey today and how local bridging leaders and philanthropists are effectively making a positive impact.

Resources

• Detailed Programme
• Participant Biographies
• Trauma Informed Schools - Maya Vakfı Report
• Refugees in Turkey and in Şanlıurfa - Prof. Murat Erdoğan Presentation

Day One: Thursday 17, Oct

Our program began with lunch, hosted by GPC Member Güler Sabancı, at the Sabancı Center, a staple in the city skyline with 2 of the tallest skyscrapers in Istanbul that illuminate the city skies with color every night.

The group received a presentation about the work of the Sabancı Foundation. The mission of the Foundation is to contribute to the educational, cultural and social development of Turkey and make a difference in the lives of individuals. As one example, through their Grant Programs, they support NGOs working to empower women, youth and persons with disabilities, so that they can have equal opportunities and take an active role in society. Thanks to the 148 projects they supported by the end of 2018, they touched the lives of 175 thousand people directly, and more than 700 thousand indirectly.
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After lunch, the group continued on to the Arter Museum, established by the Vehbi Koç Foundation, GPC Members Koç family, where the group had the opportunity to wander amongst 7 exhibitions showcasing over 1300 works of art.

After touring the museum, the group attended a private GPC Members Dinner, at the lovely home of GPC Members Vuslat Doğan Sabancı & Ali Sabancı. Discussions covered the importance of building trust and bridges, in order to tackle complex global problems. 

The Aydın Doğan Foundation, has contributed to the development of a skilled workforce in Turkey, with a top priority of empowering young women with an aim of social gender equality.

Day Two: Friday 18, Oct

Friday morning began with a briefing on the work of the Hüsnü M. Özyeğin Foundation and, in partnership with AÇEV, Mother Support & Women's Empowerment Program. This flourishing initiative serves mothers from different levels of socioeconomic status, through either basic or advanced educational programs to empower these women in supporting their children’s development. The group was left feeling very inspired by these amazing women who are pursuing education and better lives for their young ones.

We went on to visit a support market of the Basic Needs Association. The Basic Needs Association (Temel İhtiyaç Derneği) was established in 2010 by the entrepreneur Serhan Süzer, to assist individuals unable to meet their basic needs. This "Support Market" provides food, cleaning, personal hygiene products and clothes, all donated by businesses and individuals, to families who are in need. There is no monetary exchange, rather registered families use their credits. These efforts are proudly supported by the Sabancı Foundation. 

A delicious lunch was served while the group learned more about Maya Vakfı, a foundation founded by GPC Member Esra Özsüer. The group was guided on an exploration of Balat neighborhood, which lies in a very unique part of Istanbul. Historically, Balat was a Greek and Jewish neighborhood, but has now become a melting pot of many different backgrounds, including Syrian refugees and other displaced populations.

Ms. Özsüer then led the group to visit Maya Vakfı's Child Protection Field Office in Balat and learn of their Art Therapy in Action program. Aiming to help children cope with trauma, Maya uses the culturally adapted Project Lift program built on the Skills for Psychological Recovery (SPR) model and enriched with creative art therapy methods.

After creating some art of their own, the group was hosted for dinner by Ms. Özsüer, for an intimate evening of engagement and connection.

Day Three: Saturday 18, Oct

The final day of the program took the group on an adventure through Istanbul, as they were guided to several historical and significant sites throughout the city, including Şerefiye Sarnıcı, Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar.