Education Turkey Project #67012

TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund

by Turkish Philanthropy Funds

Project Report | Jun 26, 2025
Your support has opened new doors, ignited fresh possibilities and fueled the dreams of 7 youth

By Pinar Ozyurek | Director of Philanthropy

Dear TPF Donors,

The TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund is more than just financial support; it’s a catalyst for change. Celebrating students who demonstrate strong commitment to community service, this fund awards up to $15,000 annually to talented young leaders of Turkish heritage—empowering them to pursue their education at top U.S. institutions and continue making a positive societal impact. It encourages ongoing dedication, with opportunities to reapply and sustain their transformative work.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of ~80 donors, we are delighted to announce that we raised ~$74K and could spark a significant ripple of change in the lives of 7 extraordinary students by supporting them with scholarships ranging from $3K to $15K. Your support has opened new doors, ignited fresh possibilities, and fueled the dreams of future leaders who are poised to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Meet the Changemaker Scholars

Thanks to your contributions, we have had the privilege to support remarkable students who are destined to become changemakers. Here are their stories:

Selin – The first recipient of the Turkish-American Orchestra Music Award under the TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund, Selin hails from a small town in Türkiye where classical music was scarce. Today, she is the principal violinist of the Manhattan School of Music Symphony Orchestra and one of only three violinists admitted annually into its prestigious graduate program. “This scholarship helps me continue my journey as a violinist, bringing me closer to inspiring others through music,” she shares.

Nursena – From Istanbul, Nursena is passionate about designing safer, resilient cities. Her focus on earthquake resilience and sustainable architecture has earned her the TABNET Scholar designation, highlighting her commitment to transforming societies through thoughtful design. “This scholarship affirms my belief in the power of resilient and inclusive urban planning,” she says.

Cagla – An emerging filmmaker eager to tell compelling stories, Cagla is focused on representing Turkish cinema on international stages. “Being a Changemaker Scholar allows me to dream bigger and aim to share stories that connect us all,” she explains as she prepares to grow her creative voice in New York City.

Uraz – Aspiring economist Uraz will study at Arizona State University, motivated by a vision to create inclusive markets and promote financial literacy. “This recognition affirms my potential to make a positive impact through economic insight,” he notes.

Bensu – With a dedication to mental health advocacy, Bensu will study Mental Health Counseling. “This scholarship means someone recognizes my work and believes in my future,” she reflects, feeling inspired and motivated to continue her impactful journey.

Ali Kaan – As the first recipient of the Banu Onaral Scholarship, Ali Kaan aims to solve global medical challenges through biomedical engineering. “This award is a reminder of my path and a network of passionate changemakers dedicated to improving lives,” he states.

Mehmet – Future engineer at Stanford University, Mehmet focuses on healthcare systems innovation. “This scholarship helps me empower Turkish Americans and build lasting community bonds,” he shares with pride.

Your generosity fuels these students’ ambitions and supports their incredible journeys. The Changemaker Scholarship Fund remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, artists, and advocates.

Thank you for being part of this transformative movement. Together, we’re not just supporting students — we are shaping the future changemakers of tomorrow.

Kind regards,

Team TPF

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