TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE WITH GREEN STEPS

The Erasmus+ KA151 study visit carried out under the umbrella of Bülbülzade Foundation, hosted by Bülbülzade Association and in partnership with USAP EV, was successfully completed in Gaziantep.The project titled “From Idea to Impact: Capacity Building,” supported by the Turkish National Agency, was carried out between May 13–17, 2026. Within the scope of this program, which was implemented to increase inter-institutional experience sharing and to create sustainable social impact models in the field of youth work, field visits and strategic reviews were conducted at both local and international levels. While the main focus of the project was to strengthen the institutional ties of civil society, emphasis was placed throughout the program on modelling innovative youth work practices and examples of good practices in this field for the future.EXPERIENCE SHARING THROUGH INSTITUTIONAL PRESENTATIONSIn the first part of the program, participant and partner institutions introduced themselves, and comprehensive information was shared regarding their fields of activity, target groups, and ongoing projects. During the sessions aimed at strengthening ties among civil society organizations, examples of good practices were shared and joint strategies that could be implemented in the upcoming period were discussed. In this context, Katre Art and Science Center was visited and the educational activities, workshops, and projects carried out to improve the aesthetic and scientific skills of young people were examined on site. Ideas were exchanged on good examples regarding the integration of art and science into youth work and on modelling these practices.Afterwards, the Middle East Media Communication Center (OMİM) was visited, where media literacy, digital content production, and the role of next-generation communication tools in youth work were evaluated. The professional media activities carried out at the center and the participation of young people in these processes were examined, and the issue of modelling communication-oriented youth work was discussed comprehensively.ON-SITE SOCIAL SUPPORT REVIEWSDuring the study visit, technical visits were organized to various centers in order to examine institutional structures producing social benefit on site. The participant delegation visited units operating in the fields of orphan support, aid stores, and migration services in order to directly observe the functioning of social support mechanisms. During the field reviews carried out, detailed briefings were received regarding the implementation processes and social impact levels of the ongoing activities. These visits prepared an important basis for transferring successful field practices developed in the field of youth work to other institutions and for creating models for new projects.GAZIANTEP CITY AND CULTURAL TOURIn order to strengthen the cultural dimension of the program and increase social bonds among participants, a city tour of Gaziantep was organized. Through this event, where historical and cultural heritage was introduced on site, the richness of local culture was conveyed and the social interactions of international participants were supported. This tour program, which encouraged intercultural dialogue, strengthened the spirit of partnership by supporting the social interactions of participants and contributed to civil society actors getting to know one another more closely.CROSSING BORDERS FOR COOPERATION: SYRIA AND ALEPPO VISITSIn order to strengthen the international and regional impact dimension of the study visit, a transition to Syria was carried out. Within the scope of this operational field trip conducted together with the USAP Team, the social and cultural infrastructure across the border was examined on site:Azez Anatolian Culture Center:The center was visited and institutional information was received regarding the educational, cultural, and social cohesion activities carried out in the region.Aleppo Anatolian Culture Center:The activities carried out within the center in Aleppo were examined on site. The delegation participated in the workshops at the center and had the opportunity to directly observe the practices.Opening of the UID Aleppo Regional Office:The official opening program of the UID Aleppo Regional Office, attended by senior officials from Türkiye and Syria, was attended. Following the opening ceremony, the delegation returned to the Aleppo Anatolian Culture Center, where the visit program was concluded after the inspections carried out there.This study visit, which strengthened institutional capacity from the idea stage to implementation and the production of concrete outputs, reinforced the foundations of sustainable future partnerships by increasing international civil society cooperation.

The Erasmus+ KA151 project carried out under the umbrella of Bülbülzade Foundation, in partnership with Bülbülzade Association and ASMAT, was successfully completed in Gaziantep.Hosted by Bülbülzade Foundation and supported by the Turkish National Agency, the project titled “Institutional Cooperation and Social Impact Strategies in the Field of Youth” was implemented in Gaziantep between April 26 and May 2, 2026. This study visit, carried out in partnership with Bülbülzade Association and the Serbian Turkish Alumni Association (ASMAT), aimed to strengthen the ties between public authorities and civil society and to establish an international vision in youth policies. Throughout the program, strategic studies were conducted with the delegation from Serbia on sustainable social impact models at both local and international levels.TECHNICAL VISITS AND SOCIAL INTERACTIONDuring the study visit, which aimed to share best practices between the two countries and to determine joint strategies for the future, 8 participants from the Turkish Alumni Association (ASMAT) in Serbia were hosted in Gaziantep. Throughout the seven-day program, technical visits and social interaction activities were carried out to enhance institutional capacity.The delegation visited the Barrier-Free Life Center, Family Academy, Müzeyyen Erkul Science Center, and Moral House under Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality and observed the working principles of these centers on site.STRATEGIC EVALUATIONS WERE CONDUCTEDWithin the scope of the program, the Solid Waste Facility, Millet Mosque, Millet Library, Orphan Coordination Center, Migration Services Center, and Aid Center were visited, and field practices were examined. Official meetings were held with the Department of Education, Youth and Sports and the Provincial Directorate of Family and Social Services. The delegation met with the Provincial Director of Family and Social Services, Umut Zeybek, and also conducted visits to Gaziantep University and Pusula Kitap & Kahve. Strategic evaluations were carried out in the meeting sessions held at the Bülbülzade Foundation on increasing the efficiency of social services and enhancing youth service capacity.SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES WERE DISCUSSEDThrough nature walks organized in Kurtuluş Forest and outdoor activities, the integration of sustainable environmental policies into youth work was discussed. A visit to Şanlıurfa and city cultural tours guided by Asım Mıhçıoğlu introduced participants to the historical texture of the region. Home visits organized to better understand local culture made a significant contribution to the social adaptation process of participants.CONTRIBUTION TO CULTURAL DIPLOMACYAt the end of the project, youth and social service models in Serbia and Türkiye were mutually analyzed. The participating delegation gained technical knowledge to incorporate good practices in Türkiye into their local governance processes and received their YouthPass certificates. Additionally, visits to the historical and cultural sites of the region contributed to cultural diplomacy.

The Erasmus+ KA151 project titled “Youth Without Boundaries for an Inclusive Future,” carried out by the Bülbülzade Association under the umbrella of Bülbülzade Foundation and supported by the Turkish National Agency, has been completed.Bülbülzade Foundation hosted a meaningful program within the scope of international youth mobility. The Erasmus+ KA151 project titled “Youth Without Boundaries for an Inclusive Future,” implemented by the Bülbülzade Association and supported by the Turkish National Agency, was held in Gaziantep between April 13–17, 2026. The program, which brought together approximately 50 young people from Turkey, Germany, the Netherlands, Finland, Syria, and France, concluded after five days of intensive and productive activities. ESC volunteers from Azerbaijan, the Netherlands, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ukraine, affiliated with Bülbülzade Foundation and BEKAM, also took part in the project activities. With this wide participation, the project enabled different cultures to come together around shared values while producing significant outcomes in terms of social inclusion and coexistence.A JOURNEY STARTING WITH SHARED VALUESThe first day of the program began with activities aimed at strengthening communication among participants and overcoming cultural barriers. Ice-breaking activities conducted under the guidance of Clinical Psychologist Sena Aldemir helped participants bond. Following the introduction presentations of partner institutions, Mesut Aydağ outlined the theoretical framework of the project with his session titled “The Key to Coexistence: Youth and Shared Values.” Participants had the opportunity to visit the Bülbülzade Foundation complex and its units, observing local civil society models on-site.THEORETICAL DEPTHIn the following sessions of the project, Riyad Avlar, President of the Civil Law Association, met with the youth with his talk titled “Experience and Struggle: A Life in the Pursuit of Justice.” Moderated by Hacı Abuzer Nas, the panel featuring Salih Ekrem Oğlakcı and Dilara Osanmaz discussed “Youth and Cultural Identity.” Sena Aldemir and Zehra Aldemir further deepened the topic with their presentations titled “The Social and Psychological Effects of Coexistence” and “Boundaries and Flexibility.” In the practical phase of the program, a workshop titled “NGO Policies for Inclusive Coexistence: The Role of Youth” was conducted using the Station Model. As an outcome of this workshop, a policy document will be published.CULTURAL EXPLORATIONMehmet Ali Eminoğlu, President of BEKAM, encouraged young people toward social participation with his speech on “Active Citizenship Models for Youth as the Key to Social Participation.” As part of the city tour, the historical texture of Gaziantep was explored through the narrations of Hüseyin Rahmi Açıkkol and Asım Mıhçıoğlu. Within the cultural program, participants embarked on a journey through the region’s historical heritage. They experienced the magnificent atmosphere of Rumkale and the stunning view from the glass terrace. Afterwards, the group traveled to Halfeti by boat, where they explored the region’s ancient history through expert narratives and closely experienced its cultural heritage.CURIOSITY MET EXPERIENCEOne of the most interactive parts of the project, the “Fishbowl Answers” activity, brought together participants’ curiosity with the foundation’s deep-rooted experience. Notes prepared under the guidance of Zehra and Sena Aldemir were collected in a bowl, containing all questions about the project and the foundation. Rabia Aldemir, one of the founders of the foundation and President of the Mosaic Women and Family Association, along with Fatma Eminoğlu, Member of the Board of Bülbülzade Foundation, sincerely answered these questions, clarifying all uncertainties regarding the project’s goals and the foundation’s vision.WE EXAMINED THE GAZIANTEP MODEL ON-SITEOne of the most remarkable stops of the project was the meeting with Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Fatma Şahin. The participants had the opportunity to hear about the “Gaziantep Model,” which has entered international literature, directly from Şahin. She shared successful strategies in migration management, education of refugee children, and social services, offering a visionary perspective to the youth. During this meeting, participants observed concrete examples of the critical role of local governments in building inclusive societies.THEY LEFT THE PROJECT’S MEMORY IN NATUREThe project was not limited to indoor sessions. In the “Human Library” activity, Emre Karaçaylı, Coordinator of the Bülbülzade Foundation Project Unit, and Lütfiye Güvenç shared their life experiences with the youth, contributing to breaking prejudices. Additionally, participants planted saplings in the Bülbülzade Foundation Liberation Forest, leaving a lasting memory of the project in nature. Field visits were completed with tours to symbolic locations of the city such as Millet Mosque.FAREWELL WITH A CERTIFICATE CEREMONYThe workshops, seminars, and field visits held throughout the week concluded with a general evaluation session on Friday, April 17. At the end of the program, participants were awarded YouthPass certificates. The young people left Gaziantep not only with theoretical knowledge but also with strong friendships, promising to become ambassadors of the project in their respective countries.

Under the coordination of Bülbülzade Association and hosted by the Novi Pazar Turkish Cultural Center, we successfully completed our Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Mobility project activity titled “Civil Awareness and Volunteerism Culture” in Novi Pazar, Serbia. Through international collaborations, we strengthened our young people’s awareness of civil society and their culture of volunteerism.Within the scope of Erasmus+ Youth Mobility supported by the Turkish National Agency, we implemented the activity titled “Civil Awareness and Volunteerism Culture” in Serbia between March 2–8, 2026. Throughout the mobility, we placed the transformative power of civil society at the center and took strategic steps to increase young people's sensitivity to social issues and to expand the culture of volunteerism. In our activity, which aims to strengthen the participation of young people in civil society processes, we experienced the future of civil society and volunteerism on site together with 20 young participants. Our young people, who will shape the future of civil society, received both theoretical and practical training within the program.EDUCATION MARATHONFollowing the opening presentation on institutional processes by Nejra Mujovic Zupljanin, we laid the scientific foundations of the project with Ahmet Çam’s seminar titled “What is Civil Awareness?”. Our education marathon continued with Lütfiye Güvenç’s presentation titled “The Concept of Active Citizenship – Youth Participation in Decision-Making Processes,” where we discussed how young people can play a more active role in social issues and how they can be involved in decision-making mechanisms through comprehensive workshops. Interactive ice-breaker activities were organized to strengthen the group dynamics among participants.ENRICHED THROUGH CULTURAL VISITSIn the later stages of the program, we strengthened the digital dimension of our project through social media campaign analyses and digital field studies under the theme of “Digital Activism and Media Literacy.” We supported this intensive training and workshop-oriented process with field visits where we observed the local governance and civil society structure of the region. Technical visits to Belgrade and the Sandžak region, along with intercultural activities, were included in the program as complementary elements that combined our participants’ theoretical achievements with a cultural perspective.WE EXPERIENCED SOLIDARITYAs the most concrete example of solidarity within the project, our young participants took part in organizing the traditional “Brotherhood Table” iftar program for orphan families and children. From the preparation stage to the presentation, our participants actively took part in every step and personally experienced the culture of sharing. We successfully concluded the program with a certificate ceremony following the process evaluation.As Bülbülzade Foundation, we will continue to support such projects that enable our young people to gain a sense of social responsibility at the international level.

“Digital Balance: Youth and Technology” Project Completed in GaziantepThrough our Erasmus+ KA151 project carried out in partnership between Bülbülzade Derneği and Novi Pazar Türk Kültürü Merkezi, we strengthened the position of our youth in the digital world while building a bridge of goodwill that extends beyond borders.Supported by the Türkiye Ulusal Ajansı, our international youth mobility project themed “Digital Balance: Youth and Technology” was implemented in Gaziantep between 09–15 February 2026 with the participation of our guests from Serbia, along with Turkish and Syrian youth. We launched our project with our Foundation President’s presentation titled “Brotherhood Beyond Borders: Turkish and Serbian Youth Meeting on Common Values.” By establishing sincere dialogue around shared values, we supported our young people’s development as conscious individuals in the digital age.THEORETICAL TRAININGS PUT INTO PRACTICEThroughout the project, we organized comprehensive trainings and seminars to enhance our youth’s digital vision. Together with Muhammed Nur Dinç, we focused on “Professions of the Future and Digital Skills,” and through the “Building a Career in the Digital World” workshop, we had the opportunity to put our theoretical knowledge into practice. In Fatih Kaya’s presentation titled “Self-Expression and Digital Leadership in the Digital Age,” we discussed how young people can express themselves more effectively and become digital leaders in today’s era.Through visits to Müzeyyen Erkul Gaziantep Bilim Merkezi and Gaziantep Katı Atık Tesisi, we examined firsthand the critical link between technology use and environmental sustainability. With the participation of Civil Society Expert Mustafa El-Hüseyin, we evaluated the transformative power of digital tools in civil society work and the opportunities for international cooperation.STRENGTHENING INTERCULTURAL INTERACTIONWe implemented a rich cultural program that enabled young people from different geographies to bond quickly. Accompanied by our experienced guides, we introduced our local heritage through visits to the Zeugma Mozaik Müzesi and the historic bazaars. During the cultural night organized with the support of Katre Sanat Merkezi, we reinforced the ties between Turkey and Serbia through the language of art.As part of our Şanlıurfa program, we visited Göbeklitepe, deepening our mutual respect and intercultural interaction through our shared human heritage. We overcame language and cultural barriers through team spirit in a volleyball match organized using the unifying power of sports. During free time, we also provided our youth with the opportunity to experience Gaziantep’s unique cuisine and city culture firsthand.In order to help our youth closely understand local governance mechanisms, we included institutional visits in our program. Through visits to the District Governorships of Elbeyli and Harran, we enabled our young participants to directly observe local administrative structures and public processes. In this interactive process, we collectively discussed the role of civil society organizations and the impact of digital tools on social participation.

Bülbülzade Association is strengthening its institutional vision in international youth work through the Erasmus+ KA151 project supported by the Turkish National Agency.In order to enhance its institutional capacity in youth work, Bülbülzade Association carried out a strategic study visit to Cologne, Germany. Organized within the scope of the Erasmus+ KA151 project supported by the Turkish National Agency, the activity was attended by representatives of Bülbülzade Foundation, BEKAM, AKADDER, and Mozaik Women and Family Association under the leadership of Bülbülzade Association. Important steps were taken for international youth work within the program conducted under the title “Visiting Youth Work Models for Capacity Building.”CRITICAL MEETINGSDuring the visit, our delegation met with the host organization US Akademiker Plattform and held key discussions to strengthen inter-institutional cooperation. At the end of these meetings, a comprehensive cooperation protocol formalizing future joint efforts was signed. As the first outcome of this strategic step, a new Erasmus+ KA210 project was developed and the application process was initiated.PROJECTS SCHEDULEDThroughout the program, our delegation examined the operational networks and solution partners of the host organization in Cologne on site. In this context, visits were made to the Cologne Consulate General, Maarif Europe Cologne, WEFA International Humanitarian Aid Organization, and the Union of International Democrats (UID), where direct information about their working models was obtained. By analyzing the activities carried out by these institutions, our delegation scheduled the projects to be implemented jointly.Through this visit, Bülbülzade Association and its partner institutions strengthened their ties with civil society networks in Europe. All these processes further expanded the impact area of our association in youth work, thanks to the international mobility opportunities provided by the Erasmus+ KA151 project.

As Bülbülzade Association, we have successfully completed our project titled “Digital Opportunities and the Future.” Hosted by Bosnia and Herzegovina and supported by IFS-EMMAUS, the project brought together students from various cities of Türkiye and Bosnian youth to build a shared digital future.The Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Workers Mobility project, carried out by Bülbülzade Association under the title “Digital Opportunities and the Future,” hosted in Bosnia and Herzegovina and supported by IFS-EMMAUS, has been successfully concluded. This comprehensive program, held in Bosnia and Herzegovina between January 17–23, brought together Anatolian Federation secondary school students from different cities of Türkiye and Bosnian youth. With a large team of 40 participants, we carried out social, cultural, and educational activities over six days.STRENGTHENING THE SENSE OF SOLIDARITY AND SHARINGIn line with our aim to go beyond theory, participants took part in volunteer-based workshops as well as historical and cultural visits. To better understand Bosnia’s historical and cultural heritage, we visited the cities of Tuzla and Sarajevo and kept travel notes. We also visited the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial Cemetery and the Srebrenica War Museum, where we had the opportunity to witness the deep traces of history firsthand. To reinforce the spirit of solidarity, we visited elderly residents in a nursing home.DOCUMENTARY FILMING WAS CONDUCTEDOur volunteer activities featured sincere and life-centered moments. We visited an elderly woman who had lost her relatives in the Srebrenica Massacre and was living alone in her village. We conducted a heartfelt interview with her and tried to add a bit of color to her daily life. After helping her carry firewood, we received her heartfelt thanks and continued on our way.To help participants get to know each other better and strengthen group cohesion, we organized various games, group activities, and workshops. Alongside these activities, we enhanced our digital awareness through training seminars titled “Opportunities of the Digital Age and the Future,” which was the main theme of our project. At the end of this process, we produced short videos and documentaries from which we all learned valuable lessons.A CRITICAL STEP BETWEEN TWO COUNTRIESWe believe that this gathering went far beyond a simple visit program and represents a critical step toward strengthening youth cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Türkiye. As Bülbülzade Association, we have decided to continue such initiatives with participants and partner institutions in order to increase international solidarity among young people and strengthen their sense of social responsibility.

Within the scope of the European Union Erasmus+ KA153 (Youth Workers’ Mobility) program, the international training project “Art of Feeling”, in which BEKAM (Center for Science, Education, Culture and Research) is a partner, was successfully completed in Spain. Hosted by the Spain-based Promesas organization, the project took place between December 9–16 in the city of Elda, located in the Alicante region. Participants from Turkey, Spain, Finland, Romania, Portugal, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and Belgium took part in the project.Throughout the program, participants focused on topics such as emotional awareness, self-identity and self-confidence, effective communication, empathy and balance, and conflict resolution. Through both theoretical and practical trainings, they embarked on a journey of awareness guided by emotions.PARTICIPANTS ENTITLED TO RECEIVE YOUTHPASSParticipants who successfully completed the Art of Feeling program became entitled to receive the Youthpass certificate, which documents the skills they gained and is recognized across Europe. Through BEKAM and its partner organizations, international-level knowledge and experience sharing was achieved, and a strategic cooperation ground was established for future youth projects.

Within the scope of the Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Mobility project “Civil Responsibility and New Methods in Youth Work,” carried out by the Bülbülzade Association and supported by the Turkish National Agency, a meeting was held with the participation of youth workers in Novi Pazar, Serbia, between 10–14 November 2025.The program, organized in cooperation with the Bülbülzade Association and the Novi Pazar Turkish Cultural Center (TKM), hosted 25 youth workers from Türkiye and Serbia. The project aimed to increase participants’ knowledge and awareness levels, produce observation-based tangible outputs, and develop cooperation opportunities between the two countries. Through both theoretical and practical activities, youth workers gained awareness of environmental issues. Participants also obtained observation-based tangible results during this process.As part of the program, participants first visited the Bosniak National Council, the official representative body of the Sandžak Bosniaks in Serbia. Here they held a meeting with the President of the Bosniak National Council, Dr. Fuad Bačićanin. Following the meeting, the youth workers visited Osman Peşmen, Türkiye’s Consul General in Novi Pazar. The youth workers then visited Senad Halitović, President of the Islamic Community of Serbia.On the second day of the project, the youth workers attended seminars at the Association of Serbian Alumni of Türkiye (ASMAT). First, Nejra Mujovic Zupljanin, Coordinator of the Novi Pazar Turkish Cultural Center, delivered a seminar titled “Educational Activities in Novi Pazar.” Afterwards, Mehmet Yazıcı, Head of the Teacher Unit of the Anatolian Federation, presented his seminar titled “The Anatolian Federation Teacher Unit and Its Activities.” Following the seminars, a workshop titled “Civil Society Volunteering and the Mission of Educators in Youth Work” was conducted with Dr. Lütfiye Güvenç and Dr. Ahmet Çam.On the third day of the project, the Novi Pazar Turkish Cultural Center was visited. There, Dr. Lütfiye Güvenç from Novi Pazar State University delivered a seminar titled “Traces of Turkish Culture in Novi Pazar.” Afterwards, Hatice Neşe Çandır, a member of the Bülbülzade Foundation Education and Teacher Unit, presented her seminar titled “Planned Activities of the Bülbülzade Foundation Education and Teacher Unit.” Following a Q&A session, a workshop analyzing the education system was held.On the final day of the project, a Sandžak cultural tour was organized. After the general evaluation session held following the tour, the program concluded with the presentation of YouthPass certificates to the participants.As the Bülbülzade Association, we extend our gratitude to the Novi Pazar Turkish Cultural Center for their hospitality and to all youth workers who contributed to the process.

The international youth mobility program themed “Social Participation of Youth in Postnormal Times” carried out by Bülbülzade Association and supported by the Turkish National Agency under the Erasmus+ KA151 project, was held in Gaziantep between 10–14 November 2025. A total of 45 young participants from Germany’s US Academiker Platform (USAP), France’s New Horizon, the Netherlands’ Bildung Nijmegen, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s IFS Emmaus, Lithuania’s Tavo Europa, and from Türkiye, Bülbülzade Association and Science Education Culture Research Center Association (BEKAM), took part in the program hosted by Bülbülzade Association and Bülbülzade Foundation. The program, prepared with the aim of enhancing young people's social participation, involvement in democratic processes, and ability to produce solutions to social issues, was successfully completed.The first day of the project began with introductory activities. The opening program was held on Monday, November 10th, at the Bülbülzade Foundation center. The event was attended by Turgay Aldemir, President of Bülbülzade Foundation and Bülbülzade Association, as well as foundation administrators, volunteers, and project participants. Following presentations from the participating organizations, visits were made to Katre Art and Science Center, İstikrar Sports Club, Middle East Media Communication Center, and Şafak Radio located within the foundation complex. After the foundation visit, a Gaziantep city tour themed “Sustainable Cities” was organized under the guidance of Hüseyin Rahmi Açıkkol. Important cultural and historical sites of the city, including the 25 December Panorama Museum, the Historical Coppersmiths’ Bazaar, and Gaziantep Castle, were visited.On the second day of the project, a seminar titled “Erasmus+ Project and Civil Society” was delivered in the morning by Ekrem Şahin, President of the New Horizon Association. After the seminar, a station-model workshop was held under the theme “Postnormal.” Participants developed postnormal ideas in small groups and presented solution proposals. Later, the Gaziantep Solid Waste Landfill Facility was visited, where a technical presentation on waste management and recycling processes was given. The day continued with visits to Gaziantep Nation’s Mosque and Gaziantep Nation’s Library. In the evening, a cultural night was organized with the participation of young people from various countries. Youth from Türkiye, Bosnia, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Hungary, Jordan, Italy, and Syria introduced their cultures and countries.On the third day, a nature walk was held at the Bülbülzade Foundation’s Kurtuluş Forest, and a sapling was planted on behalf of each organization. After lunch, Mehmet Ali Eminoğlu, President of BEKAM, delivered a seminar titled “Youth, NGOs, Active Citizenship, and Social Participation.” The seminar addressed topics such as the relationship between civil society and youth, volunteerism, active citizenship, leadership, and local participation. Afterwards, Fatih Kaya conducted a workshop titled “Normal Challenges in Postnormal Times, Participatory Leadership.”The fourth day continued with a nature- and culture-themed program. During the excursion to Rumkale and Halfeti, the participants observed the natural and historical beauty of the region through a boat tour.On the final day of the project, a general evaluation session was held by Mesut Aydağ. Participants shared their views on the project process. The program concluded with the presentation of YouthPass certificates to the participants.

The Bülbülzade Association, supported by the Turkish National Agency, carried out the Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Mobility project, “Civil Society Volunteering as a Pathway to Active Citizenship.” (Civil Society Volunteering as a Pathway to Active Citizenship) project, an international youth program was held in Ankara Kızılcahamam between August 13–17, 2025.The program, which was attended by approximately 50 young people from North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Germany, Serbia, and Turkey, aimed to help young people gain an awareness of active citizenship through civil society volunteering and contribute to policy-making processes in this area. Additionally, the inclusion of Syrian youth residing in Turkey under temporary protection status enriched the event in terms of social inclusivity and cross-cultural interaction.Throughout the mobility, a comprehensive content was presented that focused on both increasing the knowledge and awareness levels of young people and producing concrete outputs. As a result of the station model studies conducted under the title “Youth Policy Proposal for Civil Societies from a Youth Perspective,” one of the main topics of the program, a guiding proposal document was prepared for policymakers with the active participation of young people.The program, hosted by the Bülbülzade Association, was supported by the Alaxca Association and Köprü Association from North Macedonia, IFS EMMAUS from Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Hatidža Women's Association from Serbia, and the US Akademiker Platform Association from Germany.During the program, Mehmet Ali Eminoğlu's presentation titled “Active Citizenship Models for Youth as the Key to Social Participation” was closely followed. The subsequent open discussion session addressed young people's experiences of volunteering and mechanisms for participation in civil society. Eighty young people from the Anatolian Student Union (AÖB) also participated in this session. Thus, the program created a space for interaction in the field of youth not only among young people from the participating countries but also at the local level.The session titled “Volunteering Stories and Sharing Best Practices,” moderated by Mesut Aydağ, served as a powerful source of inspiration among the participants. Throughout the event, the knowledge competition, cultural interactions, and evaluation sessions helped build strong bonds among the participants.At the same time, the outputs and policy recommendations obtained within the scope of the project were shared with the participants at the 19th Anatolia Meetings, which was held with the theme of “Tüten Ocak Aile” (Smoking Stove Family) and attended by approximately 800 people, including many youth NGO representatives. Thus, the dissemination activities of the project were carried out effectively.The program concluded with the presentation of Youthpass certificates and the presentation of policy recommendations prepared by the young participants.As Bülbülzade Association, we would like to thank all partner institutions that shared our hosting, members of the Anatolia Student Union who contributed to the program, and the Anatolia Federation for their unwavering support.

The international youth meeting was held in Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, between July 14 and 22, 2025, as part of the Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Mobility project “Green Horizons: Together Towards Sustainability,” which was carried out by the Bülbülzade Association and supported by the Turkish National Agency.Over 60 young people from Turkey, France, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Italy participated in the program, with 24 participants from our country. In the mobility program centered on the theme of sustainable environment, young people gained awareness of environmental issues through both theoretical and practical activities.As part of the program, greenhouse studies conducted by IFS EMMAUS were examined on site. Participants volunteered to collect fruits and vegetables used in the preparation of hot meals to be delivered to those in need in the institution's kitchen. Additionally, volunteers provided support for IFS EMMAUS' projects focused on the evaluation of unused areas and eco-friendly construction practices. The young participants actively contributed to efforts aimed at reclaiming unused areas through productive and ecological approaches.During the event, various workshops, expert presentations, and best practice sharing sessions were held on sustainable environment. Waste collection activities were carried out around Srebrenica. Nature walks, camp Olympics, sports, and cultural events were organized to bring young people together.One of the program's key highlights was a visit with the Mothers of Srebrenica. Following this, the Srebrenica Memorial Center was toured, offering an on-site observation of the region's recent history through collective memory. The program concluded with various cultural tours and the presentation of certificates.As Bülbülzade Association, we extend our gratitude to IFS EMMAUS for hosting the event and to all participating organizations that contributed to the process.

The Erasmus+ youth mobility program titled “A Green Step for a Clean Tomorrow” was held in Gaziantep between July 15 and 19, 2025, under the Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Accreditation.The project, supported by the Turkish National Agency and coordinated by the Bülbülzade Association, was joined by the Turkey-Serbia Alumni Association (ASMAT) and the Serbian Turkish Cultural Center (Centar za Tursku Kulturu) from Serbia, and the Alaxha Association from North Macedonia as partners.A total of 40 young people from Turkey, Serbia, and North Macedonia participated in the mobility, and with the participation of local young people who were not project participants but volunteered to join the activities, the total number reached 50.During the project, topics such as sustainable environment, environmentally friendly practices, ecological degradation and human-induced environmental threats, leadership and ecological leadership, the role of young people in civil society work, and green skills were addressed. The young people not only gained theoretical knowledge in the field of environmental awareness and social responsibility, but also actively participated in practical activities.A portion of the activities was conducted at the Gizem Doğan Experiential Learning Center, affiliated with the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality. As part of the program, a technical visit was organized to the Gaziantep Solid Waste Landfill Facility, where waste management and recycling processes were examined on-site. In the “Green Solutions” themed station activity, participants developed environmentally conscious ideas and proposed solutions.Part of the activities were carried out at the Gizem Doğan Experiential Learning Center, affiliated with the Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality. As part of the program, a technical visit was organized to the Gaziantep Solid Waste Landfill Facility, where waste management and recycling processes were examined on site. In the station work themed “Green Solutions,” participants developed environmentally conscious ideas and presented solution proposals. Additionally, activities such as nature walks, tree planting, and open-air forums were among the main activities of the program.The project concluded with a tree-planting event at the Bülbülzade Foundation's Freedom Forest and a YouthPass certificate ceremony. A general evaluation was conducted based on feedback from participants and group leaders.

Our volunteers organized a study visit to IFS EMMAUS operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina within the scope of the Erasmus+ KA151 Mobility of Youth Workers “Together We Are Stronger, Now and Always - For an Inclusive Future” project implemented by Bülbülzade Association. The mobility of the project, of which Mozaik Association, AKADDER, Semti Ibrahimli Association from Gaziantep are also partners, was carried out in Srebrenica and Doboj cities of Bosnia and Herzegovina between 13-17 May 2025.The program started with a visit to the mothers of Srebrenica who lost their relatives during the 1992-1995 war in Bosnia and Herzegovina and introduced the activities for young people and disadvantaged women carried out under the umbrella of IFS EMMAUS, as well as the shelter and education support services offered to children with limited access to school. Afterwards, our volunteers visited the Srebrenica Memorial Museum and the martyrdom site.After the completion of the activities in Srebrenica, we moved on to the city of Doboj. Here, the Doboj East Women's Association, which carries out women's work, cultural activities and volunteering projects, was visited. During the meeting with the volunteers of the association, a workshop was organized with the agenda of cultural interaction activities carried out by women with their peers and different generations.During the visit to IFS EMMAUS Headquarters in Doboj, a meeting was first held with Hamzalija Okanovic, President of IFS EMMAUS. During the meeting, sustainable activities for disadvantaged youth and women were discussed. Then, the soup kitchen where hot meals are distributed, rehabilitation and therapy centers, dairy farms and greenhouses established to provide economic support to the local community were examined.The five-day on-the-job observation and study visit ended with the presentation of YouthPass certificates to the participants.

Within the scope of the Erasmus+ KA151 Mobility of Youth Workers project carried out by Bülbülzade Association, an on-the-job observation and study visit was carried out in Tetova and Skopje cities of North Macedonia between 5-9 May 2025.The first part of the program was hosted by Alaca Association, which stands out with its social and cultural activities for disadvantaged women and youth, in Tetova. Our volunteers had the opportunity to closely observe the local practices of the association and meet good examples.The second leg of the visit was held in Skopje, hosted by Köprü Association, known for its youth work, culture and arts activities and volunteering-based projects. The participants examined the organization's activities that prioritize the active participation of young people and exchanged experiences between institutions.This mobility also contributed to the promotion and sharing of Bülbülzade Association's activities in the field of youth with international stakeholders.

Under the coordination of Bülbülzade Association, the “Young Leaders for Green Solutions” project carried out within the scope of Erasmus + KA151 Youth Accreditation was held in Gaziantep between April 7-13, 2025. Approximately 60 young people from nine institutions including Maarif Europe and US Akademiker Platform from Germany, IFS Emmaus from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bridge Association and Majka Association from North Macedonia, Emu from France, Bülbülzade Association, Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality and Science Education Culture Research Center (BEKAM) from Turkey participated in the project. The program, designed to increase the sensitivity of young people to environmental issues, develop an understanding of sustainable environment and reinforce ecological leadership awareness, was completed with a full content.The first day of the project started with introductory events. On Tuesday, April 8, the opening program was held at the Bülbülzade Foundation headquarters. The opening was attended by Turgay Aldemir, President of Bülbülzade Foundation and Bülbülzade Association, as well as foundation managers, volunteers and project participants. Afterwards, the participants went to the Gizem Doğan Living Learning Center of Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality. Activities such as camping games and archery were organized here. In the afternoon seminar, BEKAM Board Member Mesut Aydağ presented the historical development of human-induced environmental degradation, its effects on the ecosystem and solution proposals. In the networking workshop held in the evening session, participating organizations introduced themselves and their fields of activity. The day ended with a music concert.On the third day, after the camp activities, a city tour of Gaziantep was organized. 25 December Panorama Museum and other important cultural and historical sites of the city were visited. In the evening session, a forum titled “Civil Society and Youth Studies” was organized under the moderation of BEKAM President Mehmet Ali Eminoğlu. In the forum, topics such as civil society's relationship with young people, volunteering, active citizenship and local participation were discussed.On the fourth day, a station model workshop was organized in the morning with the theme “Green Solutions”. Participants developed environmentally friendly ideas in small groups and proposed solutions. Afterwards, Gaziantep Solid Waste Landfill Facility was visited, where a technical presentation was made on waste management and recycling processes. Later in the day, Gaziantep Zoo was visited. In the evening, Mustafa Kemal University Faculty Member Dr. Yunus Ergen gave a presentation on “Leadership and Ecological Leadership”. In the presentation, it was explained with examples how leadership gains meaning when combined with environmental responsibility and then an individual leadership test was applied to the participants.The fifth day continued with a nature and culture themed program. During the trip to Rumkale and Halfeti, the participants observed the natural and historical beauties of the region on site with a boat tour.The last two days of the project were dedicated to activities in touch with nature. A nature walk was organized in Bülbülzade Foundation Kurtuluş Forest and a sapling was planted on behalf of each organization. In the general evaluation session held after lunch, the opinions of the participants about the project process were received. The program ended with the presentation of YouthPass certificates to the participants.Within the scope of the program, the young leaders also visited Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Fatma Şahin and Şahinbey Mayor Mehmet Tahmazoğlu and had the opportunity to get information about the environment and youth policies of local governments.

Within the scope of the Erasmus+ KA151 project carried out by Bülbülzade Association, the “Digital Transformation: Opportunities and Challenges” youth mobility was successfully completed.A total of 30 participants from Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina took part in the youth mobility. Within the scope of the program carried out in partnership with Yeryüzü Youth and Sports Club Association, FACT and Anadolu Student Union, the effects of digital transformation on individuals and society were discussed. Through seminars, group work, quiz competitions and project development workshops, the opportunities offered and threats posed by digitalization were discussed in a multidimensional manner. Participants discovered ways to be conscious individuals in the digital world and developed innovative solutions.During the mobility, young people also visited the historical and cultural sites of Bosnia and Herzegovina, gaining a deeper insight into the country's past and cultural heritage.Combining technology and cultural interaction, this youth mobility made a significant contribution to the participants' awareness in the digital world and international experience by getting to know different cultures.

Within the scope of Erasmus+ KA151 Youth Mobility supported by the Turkish National Agency, the project activity “Resilient Youth: Active Citizenship in the Digital Age” project activity was held in Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. 41 young people from Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina participated in a series of workshops and trainings on social resilience, active citizenship and the impacts of the digital age.Social Resilience and Active Citizenship in the Digital AgeOne of the most important topics of the event was to increase the sensitivity of young people to social issues in the digital world and to ensure that they become conscious individuals. The workshops covered topics such as social media activism, combating disinformation, digital rights and ethical responsibilities.Participants also worked in groups to explore ways to build a resilient society. It was emphasized that active citizenship in the digital age is a matter of consciousness that requires responsibility.Meeting with Martyrs' Mothers: Witnesses of the Struggle for JusticeOne of the most meaningful parts of the program was the meeting with the mothers of the martyrs who lost their relatives in the Srebrenica Massacre on 11 July 1995. The participants listened to the testimonies of these mothers who have been struggling for justice for years.The sadness in their eyes was stronger than words, as the mothers described their lives in a pain that has not changed for years. “Those of us who have a tombstone here are the luckiest,” said one. “Some of us did not even reach a bone of their children.”Understanding the Past, Building the FutureThe visit to the cemetery was another important activity for young people. Walking among the white marbles, the young people realized that history is not only information to be read in books, but sometimes it can also be felt while standing on a piece of land and breathing. The visit to the Genocide Museum gave the participants a deeper understanding of what happened.Volunteering, Cultural Ties and SolidarityAnother important part of the program was volunteering at the youth center built by IFS Emmaus. Young people participated in the landscaping and maintenance of the center.In addition, handicraft workshops were organized to connect with the cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Young people learned traditional wood painting techniques and discovered how art functions as a carrier of cultural heritage.Conscious Youth for a Resilient SocietyAt the end of the program, YouthPass certificates were presented to all participants, documenting the knowledge and skills they gained in the process. However, perhaps the most valuable gain was the sense of awareness and responsibility that the young people carried within themselves.This event was an important step towards preserving the memory of the past and raising new generations as conscious individuals in the struggle for justice. When the young people left Srebrenica, they were not only coming to the end of a program; they were also taking with them a consciousness that they should carry with them responsibly.

Supported by the Turkish National Agency and implemented by the Green Hope Association, “Young People Protect Nature: Green Skills” project is an Erasmus+ KA152 project.This project is carried out in cooperation with EMU Association from France, Us Akademiker Plattform from Germany and Bridge Association from North Macedonia. Within the scope of the project, two mobilizations are planned, one in Gaziantep and one in Strasbourg.Project DescriptionChanges in atmospheric composition due to natural processes and external factors, or changes caused by the continuous effects of humans on land use, deeply affect the world we live in and lead to the problem of climate change. In addition to natural processes, human activities play a more significant role in climate change. In particular, the wasteful consumption of natural resources threatens humanity and other living creatures on earth, and the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and the release of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) into the atmosphere change the course of the world in a negative way. Problems such as the decrease in habitat diversity, extreme weather events, ocean acidification, increased migration movements, disruption of the food chain, and the spread of diseases are some of the problems we are experiencing now and will increase in the future due to climate change. This problem, which is multiplying day by day, affects not only the natural environment but also the living beings that are the natural elements of this environment. Climate change and the ecological crisis, which have been a serious agenda item in recent years due to the visible increase in their effects, force countries and international organizations to take steps in this regard. The European Convention on the Environment, the Kyoto Protocol, the Copenhagen Climate Summit and the Paris Agreement are some of the steps taken on a global scale on climate change. However, in order to overcome this process, which has become a problem on a global scale, in a healthy way, a collective consciousness that covers all people living in the world is required. Mitigating climate change and its impacts is vital for preserving the diversity of life on Earth and maintaining the health and stability of ecosystems. In particular, the fact that young people, who are the target group of our project, have environmental awareness, and the development of their environmental awareness will contribute to a resilient future. Our project aims to spread environmental awareness among young people due to the above-mentioned problems.In this context, the objectives of the project are as follows:- To draw the attention of young people to global environmental issues, - Understanding environmental issues, contributing to young people's adaptation to changing environmental conditions and efforts to build resilience in their communities,- To demonstrate the importance of a clean and healthy environment for the well-being and resilience of living things on Earth, - Raising awareness of the costs of pollution and the advantages of renewable energy sources, - To draw attention to the relationship between environmental awareness and global citizenship, - Promote the democratic participation of young people in various problems and issues, especially environmental issues, - Defining the concept of environmental justice and brainstorming to develop fair solutions, - Encouraging young people to participate in tree planting campaigns, clean-up activities, green space advocacy, - To understand the importance of young people being role models for their peers and other stakeholders of society in their social environment, - To contribute to raising awareness among young people about leaving a more resilient environment for future generations.The other objectives of the project are to help young people to establish transnational social networks, to familiarize them with the values of the European Union, to familiarize them with the concept of active citizenship, as well as to lead activities that will improve the quality of youth work.

This project is an Erasmus+ KA210 project implemented by Bilimder in partnership with Tavo Europa in Vilnius, Lithuania and supported by the Turkish National Agency.Objectives of the ProjectTo encourage young people's participation in democratic life by raising their awareness of active citizenship.To develop young people's sensitivity to social issues and their ability to express their views.To ensure that they are informed about political and social processes at local, regional and national level.To teach them to take an active and conscious role in information technologies and social media.To improve their communication, thought transfer and discussion skills.To raise awareness about the importance and methods of voluntary participation.To raise awareness about European Union youth work and areas of participation.To prepare multilingual (Turkish, English, Lithuanian) guidelines and curricula for young people.Providing roadmaps on active citizenship and participation for young participants.Project ActivitiesWithin the scope of this project, two mobility activities will be realized in Lithuania/Vilnius and Turkey/Gaziantep. The total number of participants for each activity is 18. In the first activity in Lithuania/Vilnius, "Active Citizenship" will be discussed from a theoretical perspective, and in the activity hosted by Bilimder, the concrete output of the project will be created.Concrete Outputs of the ProjectAt the end of the project, two concrete outputs will be achieved, namely "Active Citizenship Guide for Youth" and "Active Citizenship Education Curriculum for Youth". In addition, the results obtained from the activities will be compiled into a report. All results and outputs will be published on dissemination platforms and shared with relevant people and institutions.

The "Civil Society 5.0 and Digital Transformation Guide" project supported by the Turkish National Agency and implemented by Bülbülzade Foundation has been completed.Within the scope of this project, two separate workshops were organized in Turkey and Spain with the participation of young people and youth workers.In the activity in Turkey, a 5-session activity titled "Digital Transformation in Civil Society" was organized. In this activity, it was aimed to improve the capacities of young people and youth workers participating in the project in the digital field with the presentation of experts. The results obtained from the project were transferred by both institutions to the representatives of different institutions in local dissemination activities.In the activity in Spain, a 5-session guide development workshop titled "Digital Transformation Guide in Civil Society" was organized. In these sessions, the needs of both organizations were identified with the support of experts, and then the writing phase of the guide was started with the data obtained. After the event, the guide was finalized with online meetings attended by experts.This guide, which we created with the contributions of our partner Inercia Digital SL from Spain, includes practical tips for increasing the quality of civil society organizations in line with their understanding of digitalization, their use of digital media, their digital capacity development and their interaction with digital tools.This guide will be an important guide for civil society organizations working in the youth field.Click here to access the guide: Turkish; English

The Digital Transformation Opportunity for Youth Workers (KA210) project supported by the Turkish National Agency and implemented by BEKAM (Science Education Culture Research Center) has been completed with the publication of the concrete outputs from the activities carried out in Turkey and North Macedonia.These studies, which are the concrete outputs of the project titled "Digital Transformation Opportunity for Youth Workers" carried out in partnership with BEKAM and HZ Majka within the scope of Erasmus+ K210-YOU calls and published in Turkish, English and Macedonian, were prepared for the digital transformation of civil society organizations working in the field of youth and institutional capacity development in this context.You can access the concrete outputs of the project from the links belowDigital Transformation Opportunity for Youth Workers (Workshop Report)English: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=4i6nEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y&hl=trEnglish: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=VsCnEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=yDigital Transformation from Part to Whole (Workshop Report)English: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=vi6nEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=yEnglish: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=1C6nEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=yDigital Transformation Training Curriculum - Digital Transformation and Capacity Building in Civil SocietyEnglish: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=vi6nEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=yEnglish: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=RsCnEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=yMacedonian: https://books.google.com.tr/books/about?id=UsCnEAAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y