29 April 2025, Istanbul, Türkiye- The second phase of the “Bir Sen Bir Gelecek” (One You, One Future) 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.
11 November 2024, Baku, Azerbaijan – CIFAL Istanbul participated in the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference in collaboration with UNITAR, Bahçeşehir University, CIFAL Istanbul and CIFAL City of London. The event featured a key session on “The Role of Higher Education in Addressing Climate Change: Leadership, Innovation, and Impact,” bringing together academic leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to discuss the role of universities in tackling climate change.
The session explored best practices for integrating climate change education into academic programs and training the next generation of leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The discussions emphasized how higher education institutions (HEIs) can contribute to climate action through research, innovation, and policy engagement.
Among the distinguished attendees were Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu, Rector of Bahçeşehir University, and Cisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul, who highlighted the crucial role of education in addressing global environmental challenges. The session was moderated by Dr. Ebru Canan Sokullu, former Director of CIFAL Istanbul and current Associate Director at CIFAL Global Network, UNITAR.
During the panel discussions, experts underscored the importance of universities serving as key drivers of climate solutions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and equipping students with the necessary skills to contribute to a sustainable future. The session also reinforced the importance of international academic partnerships in advancing climate resilience strategies.
As climate change continues to present unprecedented challenges, CIFAL Istanbul remains committed to empowering youth, fostering innovative approaches, and strengthening global networks to create a more sustainable world.
