The first field activity of the international project, supported by the German National Agency and aiming to strengthen young people's wellbeing in the digital world, was successfully carried out in the city of Cologne.The first international programme within the scope of the Erasmus+ KA210 Youth Project titled "Digital Wellbeing: DigiLife Platform to Increase Physical and Mental Resilience," implemented in partnership with the Scientific Education Culture Research Center Association (BEKAM) and coordinated by the US Academicians Platform (USAP e.V.), was held in Cologne, Germany, between 3–7 July 2026. Brought to life through multinational cooperation, this significant initiative aims to develop innovative mechanisms that will enhance the physical and mental resilience of younger generations in digital environments.SHARED VISION AND AREAS OF COOPERATIONRepresentatives of the partner institutions who came together at the project's first international meeting clarified the overall framework and implementation steps for the comprehensive activities to be carried out in the field of digital wellbeing. Throughout the programme, participants were presented with informative sessions covering the project's main objectives, timeline, and technical details regarding the online "DigiLife" platform planned for development. The impact of the rapid advancement of technology on young people was discussed, while new approaches to supporting digital wellbeing within modern civil society initiatives were emphasized.INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPSIn order to ensure the active participation of attendees during the implementation phase, interactive group activities based on the station model were organized. During these workshops, the risk factors young people encounter on the internet and social media platforms, as well as the negative effects of these risks on physical health and psychological resilience, were comprehensively analyzed. In these sessions, where the guidance tools needed by youth workers were identified, the main content headings that will form the backbone of the digital platform to be established were also determined one by one. In particular, in-depth evaluations were conducted under critical topics such as digital addiction, cyberbullying, misinformation, the security of personal data, and digital privacy, and strategic steps for the future were identified.VISITS TO CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONSAs part of the programme in Cologne, institutional visits were also made to various civil society organisations actively engaged in youth work in the city. During these meetings, the organisations shared their experiences in the field of digital wellbeing, and ideas were exchanged regarding the inclusiveness of the DigiLife platform to be developed. The recommendations presented by civil society representatives laid the groundwork for the project to produce concrete and measurable outcomes.FUTURE OBJECTIVESIn the final section of the programme, the technical and content-focused roadmap for the DigiLife platform was evaluated in detail. The production processes and division of responsibilities for rich content types, including educational modules, guidance documents, solution cards inspired by real-life cases, short informative videos, and podcast broadcasts, were planned. In light of the outcomes achieved during the Cologne meeting, preparations have already begun for the project's second international activity through the jointly established working schedule.

We salute the glorious resistance demonstrated by our nation against the treacherous coup attempt that took place ten years ago, and we continue to stand firmly by the side of the national will with unwavering determination.As Bülbülzade Foundation, we regard it as a historic responsibility to stand against the treacherous network that sought to undermine the independence and future of our homeland. The dark plans of the traitors, who infiltrated the most sensitive institutions of our state and turned the nation's own weapons against its people, were thwarted exactly ten years ago today through unshakable faith. Standing before tanks and bombs with nothing but their faith, the sons and daughters of this homeland declared to the entire world that these lands would never surrender to captivity.OUR MOST FUNDAMENTAL DUTYThis epic, written in our nation's unwavering wisdom and resolve in the public squares, stands as a great struggle of honor won against tutelary forces and dark organizations. The courage displayed that night by citizens of every age and every walk of life, following the call of our President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, secured its place in history as the clearest manifestation of our independence. Even after ten years, we continue to regard preserving the memory of this noble stance and strengthening our unity and solidarity as one of our most fundamental duties.A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY FOR US ALLWe commemorate with mercy and gratitude the 251 sons and daughters of our homeland who sacrificed their lives, whose heroism was symbolized by Staff Sergeant Ömer Halisdemir, and we extend our heartfelt appreciation to our veterans. Today, as new generations are growing up without having personally witnessed that night, it is our shared responsibility to convey the value of this sacred legacy to them and to keep this awareness alive. We believe that this beloved homeland, as it has in the past, will continue to be a safe haven for the oppressed and a land of justice in the future.On this occasion, we commemorate with mercy and gratitude all our martyrs, especially the heroes of July 15, and extend our sincere appreciation to our heroic veterans. The will is ours, the effort is ours, victory belongs to Almighty Allah…Our defiance that says “Enough” to tyrants is ours aloneOur epic that became a grave for giants is ours aloneOur remedy drawn from a thousand and one flowers is ours aloneOur torch, that blessed decree, is ours alone

Bülbülzade Foundation Jarabulus Anatolian Cultural Center has launched a comprehensive summer school program with the start of the school holidays to help children make productive use of their time.The summer school, brought to life under the umbrella of the Bülbülzade Foundation Jarabulus Anatolian Cultural Center (AKM), aims to keep children away from the negative effects of digital media during the holiday period. Instead of spending passive time at home in front of phones and computers, students are encouraged to participate in educational classes and social activities at the center, where they continue learning while also socializing throughout the summer. While the project seeks to encourage children to pursue education even outside the regular school term, it also contributes to building a strong academic and cultural foundation ahead of the new academic year.CLASSES ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE CLASSROOMAs part of the program conducted by expert instructors at the center, students are offered a rich curriculum. Children attending the summer school receive Arabic, English, and Turkish language classes, as well as Qur'an and moral education. Through intelligence games, chess, and computer training, students develop their cognitive skills, while film analysis sessions conducted within certain frameworks help them acquire critical thinking abilities. Jarabulus AKM also does not limit its educational concept solely to the classroom environment. In order to support students' physical and social development, various social activities, including off-campus events and swimming pool programs, accompany the educational process.

Operating in the Karagöz neighborhood of Gaziantep, the Bülbülzade Foundation Aid Store is expanding solidarity through the collaboration of its professional staff and the volunteers who stand beside them.The strongest foundation of social harmony and the culture of living together is helping others without expecting anything in return. Teams who devote their efforts to touching someone's life, sharing in their joy, and contributing to society continue to make the world a better place. Centering its mission on this spirit of solidarity and volunteerism, the Bülbülzade Foundation continues its activities uninterrupted in Gaziantep's historic Karagöz neighborhood. The Aid Store within the Foundation demonstrates an exemplary and ever-growing spirit of solidarity through its professional staff and the volunteers who support them.FRIENDLY GUIDANCEAlongside the professional team that manages the store's daily operations, volunteers contribute to this movement of kindness by taking part in many tasks, from preparation processes to organizing the store sections. Going beyond traditional methods of aid distribution, the store prioritizes the preferences of the citizens and children receiving support. Instead of providing pre-prepared packages, guests visiting the store are given the opportunity to freely choose clothing from the shelves according to their own tastes and needs.Designed to resemble an ordinary shopping experience, this system brings smiles especially to children by allowing them to choose the clothes they like themselves. Guided by a vision of preserving human dignity, the store staff and volunteer teams warmly welcome every guest who visits and happily assist them throughout their shopping experience.You Can Be a Part of This Solidarity Too!You can contribute to the meaningful work carried out by the Bülbülzade Foundation Aid Store.Make a Donation: You can support families and children in need by donating clothing or in-kind contributions to bring smiles to their faces: https://bulbulzade.org.tr/bagisBecome a Volunteer: You can join our volunteer teams in sorting, organizing, and welcoming guests at our store, transforming your time into kindness: https://bulbulzade.org.tr/gonullu-olReceive Support: If you need clothing assistance or know families in need in your community, you can apply by calling +90 342 360 50 50.

The Bülbülzade Foundation delegation met with the Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Stuttgart, Makbule Koçak Kaçar, to discuss civil society initiatives and projects carried out for the Turkish community in Europe.The Bülbülzade Foundation delegation visited the Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye in Stuttgart to evaluate opportunities for cooperation in the field of civil society and to present the foundation’s projects. During the reception held at the Consulate General, the foundation’s activities carried out at both the national and international levels were discussed in detail. Throughout the meeting, comprehensive presentations were delivered on the institutional activities conducted under the themes of education, youth, family, and volunteerism, as well as on the strategic projects planned to be implemented across Europe in the coming period. The foundation representatives also shared the models they have developed to encourage younger generations to actively participate in civil society while preserving their cultural identity.COORDINATED STEPSAs part of the visit, measures to enhance the Turkish diaspora’s effectiveness in the field of civil society and opportunities for partnerships at the level of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were thoroughly evaluated. During the meeting, which addressed critical topics such as supporting migrants through institutional structures and the integration of education and culture, the importance of ensuring the sustainability of international cooperation was emphasized. The meaningful visit, during which a consensus was reached on taking coordinated steps in future planning and strengthening institutional ties, concluded with the exchange of mutual good wishes followed by an official commemorative photograph.

The Hayata Dokun Orphan Association brought together the university students it supports through scholarships at a large-scale breakfast event held at the Bülbülzade Foundation Kurtuluş Forest.Amid the hustle and bustle of modern urban life, green spaces have become some of the most important places where both the human body and mind can breathe. The connection that younger generations establish with nature not only enhances environmental awareness but also provides mental relaxation. Time spent under the shade of trees and in fresh air helps students get away from daily stress and regain their energy. This direct relationship with nature forms one of the fundamental building blocks of sustainable living and environmental consciousness. Guided by this vision, the Hayata Dokun Orphan Association organized a meaningful gathering to strengthen young people's connection with nature while offering them a chance to unwind after an intensive academic period.THEY REFRESHED THEIR MOTIVATIONUniversity students receiving scholarships from the Hayata Dokun Orphan Association spent Sunday in the peaceful atmosphere of the Bülbülzade Foundation Kurtuluş Forest. Gathering at the large breakfast event, the young participants had the opportunity to leave behind the stress of exams and coursework. Following the open-air breakfast, the students took walks through the forest and enjoyed various entertaining activities, making the most of the fresh air and lush greenery. The event also provided an opportunity for the students to socialize with one another and renew their motivation.THE PRESIDENTS MET WITH THE YOUNG PEOPLEThe event was attended by Bülbülzade Foundation President Turgay Aldemir and Hayata Dokun Orphan Association President Yunus Atilla Hamallar, who shared in the enthusiasm of the young participants. Aldemir described the foundation's youth-oriented vision with the following words: "The Bülbülzade Foundation is a non-governmental organization carrying out youth activities in many different fields. We aim for our young people to have a voice on the international stage. With this goal, we participate in global projects and encourage our young people to take part in these initiatives as well." In his speech, Hamallar emphasized the association's founding philosophy and its strong bond with its scholarship recipients. Stating that they aim to meet with the students at least three times a year, Hamallar said: "The most distinctive characteristic of our association is sincerity. Our primary purpose in being here is to consult with you, get to know each other better, and contribute to one another through mutual exchange. The true mission of the organization whose name we proudly carry lies in touching people's lives directly and sincerely."A SUSTAINABLE FUTUREWhile supporting the development of young people, the Bülbülzade Foundation also consistently demonstrates its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. Working to preserve and make natural treasures such as Kurtuluş Forest accessible to society, the foundation aims to promote awareness of a greener environment. Afforestation and environmental projects carried out to leave a more livable world for future generations are at the core of the foundation's institutional mission. Events such as these reinforce young people's sense of responsibility toward nature while also contributing to the foundation's vision of a greener world.