22 May 2026, Istanbul, Türkiye – In the lead-up to COP31, which Türkiye will host in Antalya in 2026, Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace, CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR and Bahçeşehir University convened a session titled “Youth Leadership in Climate Action: From Advocacy to Impact” at Bahçeşehir University. Held within the framework of the Global Youth Summit for Sustainability 2026, the event brought together approximately 200 students, young climate advocates, academics, and United Nations representatives to explore the critical role of youth in shaping sustainable and climate-resilient societies.
The session centred on three interconnected objectives: strengthening youth participation in climate action, advancing dialogue on global climate processes, and examining how young people can meaningfully contribute to policy design and implementation.
The event started with a brief opening remark from Yama Sukhanyar, the Executive Director of Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace, who drew attention to the importance of this conference in regards to youth participation in global issues.
The event continued with an address by Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Türkiye, who drew attention to the compounding pressures facing younger generations. Characterising the current moment as one of intertwined crises, he highlighted how climate change, biodiversity loss, inequality, rapid urbanisation, and technological transformation are reshaping daily life, cities, livelihoods, and future prospects in ways that are immediate rather than abstract. Dr. Ahonsi stressed that climate action must be understood not only as an environmental matter but as a question of development and justice, and that young people must be active co-designers of solutions rather than passive consultants.
He also pointed to the growing body of evidence of youth-led innovation worldwide, citing examples of young people developing climate applications, mapping flood risks, and deploying digital tools to hold decision-makers accountable. With COP31 on the horizon, Dr. Ahonsi underlined that the significance of the moment lies not only in international negotiations, but in whether real transformation can be accelerated at the national and local level, across energy systems, cities, food systems, and disaster resilience.
Welcoming participants on behalf of the university, Bahçeşehir University Rector Prof. Esra Hatipoğlu took the stage and highlighted the institution’s relationship with the United Nations system and affirmed its commitment to international engagement and sustainability, noting that BAU serves as the host of CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR. Prof. Hatipoğlu also drew attention to Bahçeşehir University’s everlasting commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and advancing sustainability through countless initiatives, such as this conference.
After the keynote speeches, a panel discussion, moderated by Bülent Açıkgöz from UNRCO Türkiye, brought together practitioners working across climate transparency, youth engagement, and sustainability. Mr. Açıkgöz kicked-off the conversation by emphasising that climate action is not a standalone agenda but is deeply connected to all of the Sustainable Development Goals, and that intergenerational justice sits at the heart of climate governance given that today’s decisions will shape the rights, opportunities, and wellbeing of future generations.
Zeynep Bakır from UNDP Climate Hub addressed the scale and urgency of the global climate crisis and outlined how international frameworks such as the COP process and the Climate Promise initiative are supporting countries in developing more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions and long-term climate strategies. The discussion underscored the importance of translating global commitments into country-led, locally grounded climate action. Nilgün Çavuşoğlu from UNICEF Türkiye highlighted the importance of inclusivity and meaningful participation, particularly for young people from vulnerable and disadvantaged communities, affirming that intergenerational equity is a foundational principle of climate governance and that youth-led initiatives offer vital platforms for innovation, awareness-raising, and accountability. Kamil Koray Eryılmaz, Youth and Climate Envoy of Republic of Türkiye, focused on the bridging role of youth leadership across advocacy, academia, and policy implementation, calling for structured youth participation in the lead-up to COP31 where young people do not merely have a voice but actively shape climate policies and outcomes.
The event reaffirms the relevance of SDG 13 – Climate Action, by placing youth agency and structured participation at the centre of global and national climate governance, and SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, through its emphasis on inclusive, intergenerational policy processes. It also reflects the broader ambitions of SDG 17 – Partnerships for Goals, by demonstrating how the United Nations system, academia, and youth actors can align around shared sustainability commitments in the critical run-up to COP31.
Istanbul, Türkiye – 21 April 2025, In celebration of World Art Day, Bahçeşehir University’s Departments of International Trade and Business and Economics and Finance, in collaboration with CIFAL Istanbul, brought together students, academics, and creatives for an enriching event exploring the intersection between art and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Participants visited the Mona Art Gallery, where Architect Sena Özgürcan guided attendees through a curated selection of artworks related to sustainability. The exhibition featured distinguished Turkish painters and sculptors whose pieces addressed themes such as ecological balance, urban transformation, and climate responsibility. Through open discussion, students and guests reflected on the connections between these works and various SDGs—particularly in terms of awareness, emotional engagement, and long-term impact. Among the highlights was Dear Sinan Balta’s watercolor series “Spring in Istanbul,” which provided a poetic and vivid interpretation of urban seasonality and local environmental heritage.
Finally, a dialogue between CIFAL Istanbul and Mona Art Gallery explored future collaborative opportunities to further integrate art into sustainability initiatives. The event reaffirmed the profound potential of creative disciplines not only to communicate complex global challenges, but also to mobilize communities, inspire action, and contribute meaningfully to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The program concluded with a field visit to Kuzguncuk Orchard, where Prof. Ahu Ergen, Head of the International Trade and Business Department, introduced students to an exemplary model of urban agriculture. Located in the heart of the city, this orchard allows citizens to engage directly with sustainable living practices, offering a tangible connection between local community empowerment and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
29 April 2025, Istanbul, Türkiye- The second phase of the ”Common Solutions to Social Problems” (Bir Sen, Bir Gelecek) Social Investment Project has officially commenced, this time with a strengthened institutional partnerships. A protocol signing ceremony was held at Bahçeşehir University marked the beginning of this new chapter, uniting Zeren Group Holding, BAU Professional, CIFAL Istanbul, UNITAR, and Bahçeşehir University under a shared mission to empower youth.
Launched in 2024 by Zeren Holding, the project initially reached 200 students in its first term. This year, with nearly 1,000 applications received—a record number—the program has doubled its original capacity, opening its doors to 400 university students who aspire to shape their future through purpose-driven learning and civic engagement.
The official partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony held on April 29, 2025, at Bahçeşehir University. The event was attended by Ms. Seda Zeren Adıgüzel, Honorary Chair of the Board at Zeren Group Holding, Assoc. Prof. Ergün Akgün, Director of BAU Professional, and Prof. Çisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul—each reaffirming their commitment to sustainable education and youth development.
The program features certified trainings, asynchronous modules, and dynamic workshops, including the interactive “Dream Is Yours, Future Is Ours” experience. Through its globally recognized certification granted by UNITAR and CIFAL Istanbul, the initiative ensures long-term value for participants—offering both personal growth and professional credibility.
CIFAL Istanbul extend our deepest gratitude to all NGOs, universities, and young changemakers who joined us on this mission. Their dedication and enthusiasm inspire collective action for a better future.
This milestone project stands as a powerful example of SDG4 – Quality Education, providing an inclusive and content-rich education and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the transformative potential of cross-sector collaboration in youth empowerment and sustainable education.
27 February 2025, Istanbul, Türkiye – As part of the ongoing CO-OP Responsibility Program, jointly organized by Darüşşafaka, Bahçeşehir University’s CO-OP Department, and CIFAL Istanbul, students had the opportunity to meet with CIFAL Istanbul team members for a powerful and interactive session focused on Sustainability and Climate Change.
The event featured by Ms. Aslıcan Açık, CIFAL Istanbul, Coordination and Organization Assistant Specialist, who delivered an inspiring presentation on the climate crisis, global environmental challenges, and the role of youth in shaping a sustainable future. Her session also included insightful data sharing and highlighted the need for collective climate responsibility and youth-led innovation. The program was further enriched by the contributions of Mr. Eren Yalınkaya, CIFAL Istanbul, Communication and Partnership Assistant Specialist, and Ms. Olca Sena Uçar, CIFAL Istanbul, Education and Project Assistant Specialist, who shared their personal journeys and reflections from the field of sustainability.
Held under the framework of the CO-OP Responsibility Program, the session aimed to raise awareness among high school students on critical global issues while encouraging them to think actively about climate action, social responsibility, and long-term impact. The engaging conversation reflected CIFAL Istanbul’s commitment to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by promoting inclusive, equitable, and empowering learning opportunities for all students.
“Creating awareness through education and encouraging youth to take action is a crucial step toward a sustainable future,” noted the CIFAL Istanbul team.
CIFAL Istanbul sincerely thanks Darüşşafaka, Bahçeşehir University CO-OP, and UNITAR for their collaboration in organizing this meaningful exchange. Equipping students with knowledge, awareness, and inspiration is a vital investment in a more resilient and environmentally conscious generation.
30 October 2024, İstanbul, Türkiye – CIFAL Istanbul successfully organized two separate seminars in cooperation with Yanındayız Association and Bahçeşehir University, Zero Tolerance for Violence on My Campus and Zero Tolerance for Violence on My Campus II, aimed at raising awareness about dating violence and gender-sensitive approaches among university students. The event was supported by the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Istanbul and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
The first session, hosted at Bahçeşehir University North Campus, featured Assoc. Prof. Feyza Ak Akyol, who explored gender identity, stereotypes, and non-violent communication. The second session, held at Bahçeşehir University Galata Campus, was led by Prof. Dr. İpek Merçil, who addressed the types of violence against women, legal perspectives, and definitions of dating violence.
Building on this effort, the second phase of the seminar, “Gender and Dating Violence Education II,” took place on 25 November 2024 at BAU Galata Campus, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Organized once again in partnership with Yanındayız Association, UNITAR, and Bahçeşehir University, this event expanded the dialogue on gender-based violence and further strengthened efforts to promote inclusive, respectful, and violence-free campuses.
Both seminars provided students with valuable insights and knowledge, encouraging them to challenge harmful norms and advocate for a more equitable society. CIFAL Istanbul expresses its gratitude to all partners, speakers, and participants who contributed to these impactful initiatives. Together, we continue working towards a future rooted in respect, equality, and safety for all.
These efforts reinforce CIFAL Istanbul’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering meaningful discussions on gender equality. Through ongoing collaborations, we aim to develop more educational programs that inspire positive change and promote awareness across academic communities.
“Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future!”
20 November 2024, Istanbul, Turkiye- Kocaeli Bahcesehir Collage, as part of the Global Schools Program, organized the ‘Sustainability Summit’24, bringing together dedicated students, educators, and experts to discuss the future of sustainability. During the event, CIFAL Istanbul emphasized the importance of sustainability, showcasing their initiatives and exploring potential projects within the context of the SDGs.
The summit was honored to host Dr. Yasemin Ülker, Deputy Director of CIFAL Istanbul and Ms. Aslıcan Açık, Member of CIFAL Istanbul Team, who shared their invaluable insights through a detailed presentation on what is the concept of sustainability and its crucial importance in today’s world, before discussing CIFAL Istanbul’s role in promoting sustainability and its efforts in empowering youth to take action on global challenges.
Additionally, Ms. Aslıcan Açık highlighted their experiences with the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform, showcasing how it fosters active youth participation in tackling global issues.
Their presentation highlighted key projects, such as their work on promoting sustainability in urban spaces and youth engagement.
Their speeches touched on critical themes, including CIFAL Istanbul’s impactful projects, UNITAR’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, and the role of the CIFAL Istanbul Youth Platform in fostering active youth participation. Through their words, they inspired students to envision a sustainable future and encouraged them to be changemakers in their communities.
Following the speeches, CIFAL Istanbul team had the privilege of visiting the impressive exhibition of sustainability projects created by the students and listening to their presentations, which showcased the students’ dedication and creativity in addressing global challenges.
The students’ enthusiasm for sustainability and the SDGs shows through their innovative work and determination to make a difference. CIFAL Istanbul and UNITAR remain dedicated to empowering the youth and ensuring they play an essential role in building a better world.