Nesrin, Medical Student
Nesrin gives her full energy and commitment to everything she does. From playing volleyball on her school team since 2nd grade to writing and performing in a theater piece in high school, exploring, learning, and doing her best have always been part of who she is.

Her decision to study medicine, however, comes from a deeper place. Showing up for others has always been central to her life. In her hometown of Adana, she supported a wheelchair campaign by collecting bottle caps and helped mobilize her community after a wildfire. She continues to do this alongside her studies, passionately. With your support, she’s able to focus on her studies while continuing to care for others. 

Evin, English Teacher Major
Inspired by her English teacher’s kindness and curiosity, Evin is now studying to become a teacher at Çukurova University. But the path to get here wasn’t easy. After the February 6 earthquakes, her world was turned upside down, and her family moved in with relatives in another city. Despite the challenges, they eventually returned to their damaged home in İskenderun.

Through it all, Evin pushed past her own expectations and made it to college. Today, she looks only ahead, focused on building a life where she can offer the same support and inspiration she once received.

Bilgün, Engineering Major

For Bilgün, creating is what sparks her curiosity whether through music, art, or robotics. For her, it’s all connected, and she thrives when she can bring ideas to life.

Now in college, the engineering program is her happy place, where she is building her technical skills. Looking ahead, Bilgün hopes to use these skills to make a difference in communities, driven by her passion for volunteering.

Asya, High school student 

For Asya, resilience has been a part of life from an early age. Raised by her mother as the youngest of three, she learned to stay strong through challenges.

At just seven years old, she was diagnosed with kidney cancer. After months of chemotherapy and surgery, she recovered. Just as life was returning to normal, the earthquake changed everything. Their home was severely damaged, and her family was displaced.

Despite all these obstacles, Asya never gave up on her education. She is determined to follow in her brothers’ footsteps and go to college. The scholarship she receives is more than financial support—it is her motivation, her confidence, and a source of pride.

Fighting her way onto the local team became a double struggle. Her talent and hard work alone were not enough; she also had to work hard to convince her parents to let her play.

Yet, she persisted.

For years, Rabia balanced training with school, traveling to tournaments with her books packed alongside her athletic gear. Her commitment eventually earned her a place on Türkiye’s national team.

Wearing the national jersey changed more than Rabia’s own life. Her success began to change the perspectives of those around her, including family members, relatives, and neighbors who had once questioned whether a girl should pursue sports at all. Today, one of the accomplishments she values most is knowing that younger girls from communities like hers can see her journey and imagine possibilities of their own.

As Rabia’s achievements took her beyond Adıyaman, her ambitions grew with them. Competing as a national athlete and studying pharmacy introduced her to a much wider world, one where English could unlock access to international competitions, scientific knowledge, professional networks, and opportunities she had once only imagined.

For Rabia, learning English was not simply about mastering another language. It was about having the confidence and ability to participate fully in the world she was working so hard to enter.

Through Esas Sosyal and its Hayırlı Sabancı English Chance Program, another door opened. Selected from among thousands of applicants, Rabia entered the program with the feeling that she had been recognized for her potential—and left with a stronger belief in it herself. English became more than a skill; it became a key that opened new doors in her career, sporting life, and personal development.

Through training in leadership, networking, and time management, Rabia gained new perspectives and skills that complemented the determination and discipline she had already developed as an athlete and student. By the time she completed the program, she had not only strengthened her English, but also developed a deeper understanding of herself and a more conscious approach to her professional and personal growth.

That sense of possibility continued beyond the program. As Rabia competed in international tournaments, celebrated new achievements, and stepped into new opportunities, Esas Sosyal continued to follow her journey. Knowing that her achievements were being seen and celebrated gave her a lasting sense of belonging—the feeling that she had a strong team behind her, even after graduation.

Today, Rabia continues to pursue both of the dreams she held onto as a young girl. She is a national athlete and a pharmacy student, now with greater confidence, stronger skills, and access to a wider world of possibilities.

Her journey shows how opportunity can build upon opportunity. The chance to play became a national jersey. The chance to learn English became new confidence, connection, and possibilities in her sporting, academic, and professional life.

Perhaps most importantly, the girl who once had to convince others that she should be allowed to pursue her own dreams is now showing other girls that they can pursue theirs.

Nida Aktaş Doğu who will start her MA in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard University notes: 

“To me, being selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient is both an honor and a responsibility. It is a reminder that talent and potential exist everywhere, even in places where opportunities are limited. As someone who grew up far from the institutions and networks that usually shape global policy leaders, this scholarship makes me feel seen, supported, and empowered to give back at a much larger scale.” 

Alisait Yılkın will begin his postdoctoral fellowship in The Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies (CES) Visiting Scholars Program at Harvard University shares:

“Looking back on my years and experiences, I consider the TPF scholarship to be the third major “lucky moment” in my life. Thanks to the financial and moral support provided by TPF, I will have the opportunity to participate in the Center for European Studies program at Harvard University. This program offers an international academic environment specifically designed for researchers from outside the United States. I believe this experience will not only deepen and enrich my ongoing research, but also broaden my academic perspective through engagement with scholars from diverse backgrounds.” 

Kaan Aydın will continue his BS dual major in Chemistry and Chemical Biology, sharing:

“This scholarship goes beyond financial relief; it serves as tangible evidence that my efforts, no matter how big or small, can lead to meaningful change, which further motivates me to continue working toward becoming a physician dedicated to a life of service.” 

Deniz Boz will continue his Doctor of Medicine (MD) studies remarks:

“This opportunity has definitely been a gamechanger in my future planning. It has removed a significant financial burden for this year, allowing me to focus on my current work and projects much better, and exploring previous opportunities with dual degrees and long residency programs. I hope I can live up to it by representing the field I love and the community that I am a part of in the best way, throughout my future career.” 

As a second-year Changemaker Scholarship recipient, Uraz Eren will continue his studies at Arizona State University, pursuing a BS in Economics shares: “

This support has helped me focus on my education without constantly worrying about financial concerns, grow as a leader, and become more involved in my community at Arizona State University. As an economics student, I hope to continue learning, creating opportunities for others, and making a positive impact wherever my career takes me.” 

Eren Ersoy will begin his studies in the United States at the University of Pennsylvania, pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM) and Earth and Environmental Science  notes:

“Receiving the Changemaker Scholarship is both an honor and a reminder of the impact I hope to make through engineering. It will support my goals by giving me greater freedom to pursue meaningful projects, research, and opportunities for growth.”

Begüm İça will continue her studies at UCLA pursuing a B.S. in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics shares:

“As someone who aspires to become a physician-scientist, this scholarship will allow me to focus more deeply on my education, research, and personal growth. More importantly, being part of a community of Changemakers inspires me to dream bigger and continue working toward improving human health through science.” 

Naz Kaya will begin her studies at Brown University, pursuing a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering reflects:

“It is an exceptional honor to be selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient, and I see it as both a recognition of the work and dedication that have brought me to this point and a door opening toward the impact I hope to create in the future. This scholarship brings me one step closer to becoming a biomedical engineer who approaches global healthcare challenges with empathy and develops solutions that can create change for communities around the world.”

İlayda McIntosh will continue her studies at New York University, pursuing an MFA in Dramatic Writing notes:

“This award will allow me to strive forward in my career with even more ambition, lessened financial stressors, and the powerful reassurance that my community believes in my art. It truly takes a village. The path of an artist is rarely a smooth one, and this support meaningfully eases my journey.”

Bensu Mercan, a second-time recipient of the Changemaker Scholarship, will continue her studies at Boston College, pursuing an M.A. in Mental Health Counseling reflects: 

“This scholarship has actually made my studies possible and allowed me to continue pursuing my dream of becoming a mental health counselor without the constant stress of financial challenges. To me, mental health work is also a form of advocacy because helping someone feel seen, heard, and less alone can change a life in ways we may never fully realize. While therapists may not solely change the entire world, they can impact individual lives, and those lives can go on to create meaningful change in their communities.”

Esila Özdemir will continue her studies at Drexel University, pursuing a B.S. in Electrical Engineering notes: 

“Being selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient is an honor and a source of motivation because it recognizes not only my academic journey, but also my commitment to using engineering and technology with purpose. This scholarship will support my growth as an electrical engineer aiming to connect technical innovation with social impact and build solutions that respond to meaningful challenges.”

Dilara Özdoğanlar will continue her studies at The Ohio State University, pursuing a Doctor of Medicine highlights:

“I am deeply honored to have been selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient. I am grateful for the acknowledgement of my commitment to serving my communities and advocating for health equity. This recognition demonstrates a shared belief in the power of effective leadership and civic engagement to create lasting, positive change.”

Onur Öztürk will continue his studies at the University of South Carolina, pursuing a Master of Music in Classical Guitar Performance remarks:

“Being awarded the Changemaker Scholarship is a great encouragement and an honor for me. As a Turkish classical guitarist studying in the United States, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to continue representing my artistic work, my country, and its educational and cultural values in the best possible way. This scholarship gives me the space to grow with greater focus and purpose, deepen my studies, continue my teaching and performances, and develop future projects that reflect my identity as an artist and educator.”

Melis Şahin will continue her studies at Case Western Reserve University, pursuing a combined B.S./M.S. in Biomedical Engineering says:

“Being selected as a TPF Changemaker Scholar is incredibly meaningful to me because it is representative of the mission that has shaped my work as an engineer. Throughout my academic journey, I have been driven by a passion for developing accessible and sustainable healthcare technologies for underserved communities, particularly in women’s health and global health settings.”

Simge Şahiner will continue her studies at University at Albany, SUNY, pursuing a B.S. in Mathematics highlights:

“I grew up always chasing the next big step, never the type to stay in my comfort zone. But this scholarship means there are people out there who believe in me, in the work I do, and in my potential to make a meaningful difference, and that gives me even more motivation to chase my next big milestone.I am so happy that the TPF family is now a part of my journey, and I cannot wait to make the people who believed in me proud.”

Thank you for being part of this mission and for continuing to invest in the power of education.

donate to changemaker scholarship fund

TPF Scholars of Distinction Award: The TPF Distinction Award is awarded solely at the discretion of the selection committee to recognize individuals demonstrating extraordinary merit, achievement, and potential. Reserved for candidates of the highest caliber, this distinction is awarded only when such excellence is identified and, as such, may not be granted each year.

Banu Onaral Scholarship: TPF is honored to dedicate a scholarship from the TPF Changemakers Scholarship Fund to Banu Onaral, a visionary leader in biomedical engineering whose groundbreaking contributions have shaped the field and inspired generations of scientists and engineers.

Turkish Medical Doctors Scholarship: Changemaker Scholarship in Honor of the Turkish Medical Doctors is established under the TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund to honor the pioneering legacy of Turkish doctors who came to the United States from Türkiye in the 1960s. Learn more about the legacy of these physicians. 

Learn More About Changemaker scholarship

Both are economics students at Koç University and will take the next step this fall, continuing their studies at leading institutions in the United States with the support of the Sena Eken- Schieber Economics Award.

Economics remains a field where women are significantly underrepresented. In the United States, women account for roughly 36% of economists, lower than in any other social science. This gap is reflected at the highest levels of the profession: since 1914, only 8 of the 140 presidents of the Federal Reserve have been women, and among Nobel Prizes in Economic Sciences, only two have been awarded to women.

The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award, established by Dr. George Schieber in memory of his wife, Sena Eken-Schieber, honors the values she exemplified: compassion, perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and the courage to lead in this traditionally male-dominated field. This award creates opportunities for these young women to pursue advanced studies in economics and realize their full potential. With Öykü and İlbilge joining this distinguished group of alumni, the program has now supported 21 female economists in pursuing their studies in the United States, helping to ease the financial burden of tuition and living expenses, and enabling access to leading academic and research environments.

Öykü Bulut will begin her master’s at Yale University, joining an incoming class of only 35 students. A double major in Economics and Mathematics at Koç University, Öykü hopes to inspire other young women aspiring to become economists, just as Sena Eken Schieber did for her. “Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is both a great honor and a powerful reminder that we should not hesitate to always dream big. The recognition of my efforts and the trust placed in my goals have motivated me more than ever to pursue my ideals,” says Öykü with gratitude. Looking ahead, Öykü aspires to work with leading experts in the field and apply what she learns toward preserving the values in Türkiye that she hopes will not be lost.

İlbilge Acır, also an Economics major at Koç University, will continue her journey at the University of Chicago. For  İlbilge, being a Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award recipient is an honor. “As an aspiring economist who wants to serve my country and its youth in the best way possible, receiving this scholarship in the name of Sena Eken—who held senior positions at the IMF and served as an advisor to the Central Bank of Türkiye—is a great source of pride for me,”  İlbilge shares. She is determined to make a difference as an economist, shaping our world.

Dr. George Schieber also shared a message for this year’s recipients: “Congratulations to our scholarship recipients. Your motivation and courage to continue pursuing your education in the United States during these unpredictable times bode well for your future contributions to our rapidly changing global environment. Your in-depth national and international exposure will serve you well both culturally and intellectually. I am sure your future efforts will help create a more compassionate, equitable, and prosperous place for all of the world’s citizens.“

The selection committee welcomed the new scholars with delight and pride. “You have earned a significant platform and a rare opportunity to effect meaningful change on a grand scale. As you embark on this next chapter, we look forward to seeing how your work challenges the status quo and contributes to the architecture of a more robust, thoughtful, and inclusive global community,” shared Esra Krause, niece of Sena Eken Schieber. 

Dr. Seyhan Erden added, “It is a joy to see the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award continue to recognize outstanding young economists. Öykü and  İlbilge embody the curiosity, rigor, and promise that this award stands for, and I wish them every success in their journeys ahead.” 

TPF’s Executive Director, Şenay Ataselim Yılmaz, PhD reflected, “This award goes beyond academic achievement. It speaks to potential. Öykü and  İlbilge represent a generation of economists who are not only technically strong but also deeply engaged with the systems they seek to understand and improve. We’re excited to see where that path takes them.”

What lies ahead for Öykü and İlbilge is not just the next step, but a continuation of the questions they’ve already begun to explore, and the impact those questions may shape.

Learn More About Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award

After welcoming 200 children affected by the February 6 earthquakes, Darüşşafaka’s student body has surpassed 1,000 for the first time in its history. To ensure no child is turned away, the school is now rebuilding its Maslak campus to expand capacity—creating more opportunities for future generations of leaders, dreamers, and changemakers. The Doluca Family is matching $250K in donations, with only $44K remaining—doubling the impact of every gift.

Support Darussafaka

lkyar works to ensure that children in rural Turkey have access to quality education and the resources they need to thrive—from books and libraries to hands‑on learning experiences that ignite curiosity and confidence. Your support helps sustain these vital programs and expands opportunities for students and teachers in underserved communities, keeping them connected to learning, growth, and their dreams for the future. An anonymous donor is matching gifts up to $5K, with $1.3K remaining—doubling the impact of your contribution.

Support Ilkyar

Nakiye and Ziya Boyacigiller exemplified generosity, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to empowering others—advancing education, women’s empowerment, and cultural life in Türkiye. In honor of their enduring legacy, their close friend Canan Kadioglu invites you to support the scholarship fund at Boğaziçi University, opening doors and creating opportunities for future generations. While the Basol Family’s matching gift has run out, the Karacam Family still has $2.5K in matching funds available, so your gift can go even further by doubling its impact.

Support BUMED

When financial support is combined with mentorship, guidance, and emotional encouragement, the impact multiplies. That is exactly what our partner PAYDA provides. Working in small towns across Türkiye, PAYDA has an extraordinary gift for identifying bright, promising young women and standing beside them for life. From scholarships to mentorship, PAYDA not only helps students achieve their goals, it often gives them the courage to dream them in the first place.

We’d like you to meet a few of them—among many others—who are just as inspirational and bright. Each is supported by PAYDA in every possible way through grants from TPF, made possible by your generosity.

Meet Esra

Born and raised in Batman, Esra has seven siblings. Her parents never went to school, and their literacy level is novice. Her father works as a construction worker, with no stable income, and moves from one construction to another in the labor force. Her mother who raised Esra and her siblings is a housewife. 

As her parents experienced both financial and social challenges that rose from lack of education, it’s been a priority in their household to go to school. No matter which school or where, all family members were encouraged to learn to read and write as opposed to Esra’s parents, and get a college  degree so that they can all have a brighter future and a place in our society. One field comes to mind in southeastern Turkiye as the best option for all children to pursue for a steady income and job safety – healthcare. Not surprisingly, all of Esra’s older brothers and sister are working in the healthcare sector as technicians and sociologists.

And Esra holds on to the family tradition. She studied medicine at Mersin University and started working last week at the emergency care at a public hospital in Siirt. She takes pride in being the first doctor in her family and treating her patients with care in the region she feels at home. Esra always had good grades in school but the financial difficulties in her household almost held her back despite her parents’ devotion to support her. 

Thanks to your generosity, Esra has been able to graduate from high school and college and become a doctor in the region, and gives back to her community. She still remembers with a smile on her face the day the PAYDA team paid a visit to her home in Batman, and met with her family. That visit made her feel special, and a true part of the PAYDA family. Today, she is proud to be the first medical doctor in her family. And she cherishes each and everyone one of you as her champions all the way from Siirt. 

Meet Revsen

Revsen’s story is nothing but extraordinary. Born and raised in Mardin, she has been the star of her high school, Mardin Fen Lisesi. Her grades were top notch since elementary school, and that showed in all of her exams. She was accepted to Robert College, which requires 500/500 in high school exams but her family did not want her to go to Istanbul, boarding at that age. As she was saddened to stay in Mardin not being able to pursue her dreams of studying at her dream school, Revsen did not give up. She focused on her studies and taught herself English, at a pretty advanced level. Her life changed when she met with PAYDA during their visit to Mardin and took her under their wings to support her in every means. 

Revsen was selected to join PAYDA’s RCIMUN (Robert College International Model United Nations) project –a conference where 500+ students from different backgrounds get together, leaving their ecosystem behind and engage with their peers around daily discussion topics and practice English. That project changed Revsen, reshaped her dreams and vision of her future. She decided there and then that she would like to go pursue her college degree in the States, where she can get the top-notch education with countless opportunities. And this time, she wouldn’t let anyone hold her back. Her hard work combined with PAYDA’s guidance on college applications, and financial support for SAT exams, she realized her dreams. She got into Brown University with a full scholarship. She is the first student from Mardin High School accepted to an Ivy League university in the States and hopefully, she won’t be the last. PAYDA even convinced her parents to allow Revsen to go to Brown University, explaining the uniqueness of her success and the importance of such educational opportunities. 

Inspired by her meeting with Feryal Ozel, Revsen majored in astrophysics, and graduated with distinction. Today, she works as a science teacher at a charter high school where she takes pride and joy in reaching out to students coming from disadvantaged communities, and making a difference in their lives through science. She would like to continue academics and pursue a PhD degree in the future. As she is grateful for all the support that enabled her to realize her dreams and get out of her ecosystem in Mardin, she considers PAYDA as her family who she can count on no matter what.  

Meet Yasemin

Yasemin will be the first female doctor in her village, Idil in Sirnak. It was such a big moment for her community that all the villagers came to her home to congratulate her on acceptance to Koc University’s Medical School with full scholarship. 

Her success story started at an early age, always motivated by her father who called her “Professor Doctor Yasemin” at home. Bright and hardworking, she focused on her studies and that didn’t go unnoticed by PAYDA. She was in high school when PAYDA volunteers took her under their wings, and supported her more than financially. Through mentors, and camps around social development, Yasemin found herself surrounded by an amazing community who cheered for her to realize her dreams. As she studies medicine at Koc University, she’s passionate about discovering other fields such as psychology and political science to equip herself with all the opportunities she could find. 

Her dream is to complete her degree in Turkiye, and then continue her studies in the United States. After traveling to the States last year for an internship through PAYDA’s incredible network, she decided then and there that she would like to earn her specialty in the States. Her time here made her feel so welcome that she would like to experience this culture where everyone is accepted and appreciated as who they are. Progress in the medical field being top notch in the States is another contributing factor to her dream of studying here and becoming the best in her field. 

Even when Yasemin had lost her mother unexpectedly a couple of years ago, she was resilient in a remarkable way that she scored on top in her studies. As an inspiring, hardworking woman in her twenties, she shows us how much young women from disadvantaged communities can accomplish if they’re provided with opportunities in life. It’s your kindness and support that enables Yasemin and many others in Turkiye to push the boundaries of inequalities in life. Yasemin will be the first female doctor in her village, and with your support, her journey is only beginning.

Esra, Revşen, Yasemin… these are just three among hundreds of young women whose lives have been transformed by PAYDA, each breaking through the inequalities they were born into. With your support, they are becoming doctors, scientists, teachers, and changemakers but more importantly, leaders who will shape their communities and inspire generations to come. Thank you for investing in their futures, and in the brighter, more equitable world they are creating.

For these teachers, it wasn’t just about lessons. It was about building trust, offering stability, and helping children feel safe again. Many faced exhaustion, limited resources, and homesickness—but they kept going.

That’s where KODA’s Post-Disaster Rural Education Support Program made a difference. Through mentoring, workshops, and practical guidance, teachers gained the tools and confidence to connect with students, manage challenges, and create classrooms full of empathy and encouragement.

Today, these teachers are not just educators -they are mentors, guides, and sources of hope. And their students are thriving, learning, and discovering resilience every day.

We’re proud to stand with KODA, supporting teachers and communities as they rebuild hope, learning, and connection. Thank you for your support of the TPF Earthquake Fund. Together, we continue to build forward.

In that same spirit, we are proud to announce the recipients of the inaugural TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund, honoring seven exceptional students:

• Selin Algoz, Violin at Manhattan School of Music, TAO Scholar
• Nursena Colak, Architecture at Cooper Union, TABNET Scholar
• Cagla Demirbas, Film Producing at Columbia University
• Uraz Eren, Economics at Arizona State University
• Bensu Mercan, Mental Health Counseling at Boston College
• Ali Kaan Narin, Biomedical and Computer Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, TPF Banu Onaral Scholar
• Mehmet Tascioglu, Engineering at Stanford University

“TPF is very proud to be able to support very talented and well-deserving Turkish students studying in the USA on May 19, the Turkish holiday dedicated to the Youth,” said Mustafa Kemal Abadan, Chairman of Turkish Philanthropy Funds. “This moment reminds us of our responsibility to uplift young leaders who will shape the future of Türkiye and the world.”

“The TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund is more than financial support. It’s a commitment to the potential of young leaders who are ready to create meaningful change,” said Senay Ataselim Yilmaz, Executive Director of Turkish Philanthropy Funds. “With this inaugural fund, we are investing in the minds that will shape a more just, compassionate, and innovative future. We believe in their promise, and we’re honored to walk alongside them on this journey.” 

Meet the Changemaker Scholars

Selin is the first recipient of the Turkish-American Orchestra Music Award under the TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund. Growing up in a small town in Türkiye, where classical music was rarely heard, she discovered a deep passion for the violin. Today, she serves as the principal violinist of the Manhattan School of Music Symphony Orchestra and is one of only three violinists admitted each year into its prestigious graduate program. “I’m incredibly honored and grateful to receive the Changemaker Scholarship. This support helps me continue my journey as a violinist, committed to my dreams, goals, and education. It brings me one step closer to building the career I envision—one where I can inspire and empower others through music,” she shared.

Coming from Istanbul, a city impacted by frequent earthquakes, Nursena Colak is passionate about designing safer cities. “This prestigious scholarship not only provides essential financial support but also reinforces my belief that thoughtful, resilient, and inclusive design has the power to transform societies,” shared Nursena, who will focus on earthquake resilience and sustainable architecture. She has been selected as the TABNET Scholar, a designation awarded through TPF in partnership with TABNET (Turkish American Business Network), a vibrant community of Turkish-American professionals and entrepreneurs. 

Cagla Demirbas, an emerging filmmaker, is eager to grow as a storyteller in New York City’s dynamic and diverse creative scene. “Being selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient at such a pivotal moment in my life allowed me to dream bigger. Upon graduating from Columbia, I aspire to represent Turkish cinema on international platforms and tell stories that connect us,” she shared.

As an aspiring economist, Uraz Eren’s journey will continue at Arizona State University. “Being selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient means recognition not just of my academic efforts, but of my potential to positively impact the world through economics. It means someone believes in my vision of using economic insight to create real change — to build more inclusive markets, promote financial literacy, and design policies that expand opportunities for all,” he noted.

With a mission to offer care and advocacy to underserved communities, Bensu Mercan will study Mental Health Counseling. “Being selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient means a lot to me. It feels like someone is saying, ‘We see the work you’ve done, and we believe in where you’re going.’ It gives me not just financial support, but also hope and motivation to keep moving forward,” Bensu said.

Ali Kaan Narin, recipient of the Banu Onaral Scholarship, aspires to become a scientific researcher focused on solving global medical challenges. “The Changemaker Scholarship is a testament to the path I have walked till now and a reminder of a promise I’ve made to myself. Being a Changemaker Scholarship recipient means being part of a network of people who are equally passionate about changing lives. I hope to grow and increase my contributions to my communities continuously.” Ali Kaan is the first recipient of the TPF Banu Onaral Scholarship, a dedicated scholarship within the Changemaker Fund that supports students of Turkish origin pursuing biomedical engineering. Established in honor of Dr. Banu Onaral, a pioneering biomedical engineer and visionary leader, this scholarship carries forward her legacy of innovation, mentorship, and global impact. We are proud to recognize her enduring influence by supporting the next generation of changemakers in biomedical engineering through this award.

Mehmet Tascioglu, a future engineer and innovator, will pursue his studies at Stanford University with a focus on healthcare systems innovation. “I am deeply honored and grateful to be selected as a Changemaker Scholarship recipient. As someone who takes great pride in my Turkish American identity, this scholarship represents an important step toward my broader goal of empowering Turkish Americans and helping to build lasting economic, cultural, and social capital within our community,” Mehmet shared.

As a community committed to long-term impact through education, we are honored to support Selin, Nursena, Cagla, Uraz, Bensu, Ali Kaan, and Mehmet in their pursuit of becoming the changemakers they aspire to be. Their stories inspire us. The Changemaker Scholarship Fund is proud to stand behind them.

About TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund: 

The TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund is dedicated to recognizing and supporting students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to community service. This scholarship rewards those who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteer work, leadership, and civic engagement. By providing financial assistance, we aim to empower these students to continue their education and expand their impact. Our goal is to nurture the next generation of leaders who are committed to making a positive difference in society.

About Turkish Philanthropy Funds: 

For 18 years, Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) has been dedicated to changing narratives and creating equitable opportunities in our community. With the generosity of over 100,000 donors, we have disbursed close to $50 million, directly impacting over 3 million lives. As a community foundation, we leverage our intimate knowledge of community needs to fuel innovative solutions to pressing challenges. Our strategic guidance helps donors maximize their philanthropic reach, ensuring that their contributions create sustainable and meaningful change. TPF serves as a collaborative hub where donors, businesses, and nonprofits unite, pooling resources and expertise to foster resilient and inclusive communities. Together, we have built a legacy of positive change that we are all proud of.

For more updates about the application process for the 2026-27 Changemaker Scholarship cycle, please visit here.

All three are Economics majors with GPAs above 3.7 from top universities in Türkiye, united by a shared dream: to make their mark in a discipline that remains male-dominated around the world. Their road to success was clear: to equip themselves by studying at the most prestigious universities in the United States, where they could learn from professors with exceptional knowledge and expertise and take full advantage of the valuable resources these institutions offer. Their success is a powerful testament to what becomes possible when talent meets opportunity. But despite putting everything they had into realizing their dreams, the cost of living and high tuition fees stood as yet another barrier on their path to higher education. That’s when a scholarship fund, established to honor the legacy of a brilliant, courageous, and determined economist, chose to believe in Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan—just like it has believed in many young women before them: the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award.

Established in memory of Sena Eken-Schieber by her husband, Dr. George Schieber, the award honors the values she embodied: kindness, hard work, passion, and bravery to lead in a traditionally male-dominated field. Sena represented a vision of what women can achieve when given the opportunity—and Dr. Schieber chose to carry that vision forward by opening doors for female students pursuing higher education in economics.

Since its founding in 2015, the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award has supported 19 outstanding female students throughout their graduate studies, enabling them to focus on their education without the burden of financial barriers.

“These young women reflect our hope for future sustainable global development, equity, prosperity, and knowledge sharing in our increasingly fragmented, reactionary, and dysfunctional world. I have little doubt that their motivations, social and personal aspirations, and formidable intelligence will fuel their future personal and intellectual growth, and assist them in making much-needed societal contributions globally, as well as in both Turkiye and the United States. In fact, a recent IMF study found that ‘education accounts for fully half of total economic growth and two-thirds of real income gains among the world’s poorest 20 percent since 1980,’ and, surprisingly, that ‘a year of postsecondary education will increase a person’s earnings by more than 13 percent over those of a person with secondary education alone.’ I wish them the best of luck on this challenging journey they have only just begun,” says Dr. George Schieber, Sena’s husband and a retired World Bank economist.

Sıla, an Economics major from Boğaziçi University, will begin her master’s in International and Development Economics at Yale University, where the acceptance rate is just 9%. Grateful for this opportunity, she shares: “This recognition is deeply meaningful to me not only as a student, but also as someone committed to making economics a more inclusive and impactful field. Economics has traditionally been a male-dominated discipline, but that is gradually changing as more women contribute to research and policymaking. The underrepresentation of women in this field makes me even more determined to be part of that change and to encourage others to see that they, too, belong in economics. Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award brings me one step closer to my goal of using economics as a tool to create a more fair, inclusive, and resilient society. Beyond easing the financial challenges of graduate study, this scholarship strengthens my belief that inclusive, equitable change is possible, and that I can be part of it. It encourages me to dream bigger, work harder, and push the boundaries of what I hope to achieve as an economist—building systems that open doors for many more people, not just a few.”

Ece, a double major in Sociology and Economics at Boğaziçi University, will continue her studies at Duke University, excited to deepen her research on policymaking. “Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is a great honor for me and a meaningful encouragement at an important point in my journey. Coming from Turkey and preparing to continue my academic studies at Duke University, it feels special to be recognized by a community that values education, perseverance, and contribution to society. Knowing that my efforts are seen and supported motivates me to work even harder toward my goals. I am truly grateful to Dr. George Schieber, the selection committee, and the Turkish Philanthropy Funds for their trust and support,” says Ece Hasgül.

Nagehan, another Economics major from Boğaziçi University, will continue her journey at Columbia University, hoping to set an example for young women in Türkiye and beyond—that they, too, can break barriers and overcome limitations. “Being selected for the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is both an incredible honor and a turning point in my academic journey. This scholarship is not only an investment in my education, but also a meaningful recognition of my goals and commitment to using economics as a tool for change. As I begin my master’s at Columbia University, I’m filled with gratitude and determination. This support strengthens my resolve to work toward a future where economic and social policies truly serve those who have long been left behind. I’m incredibly thankful to Dr. George Schieber, Turkish Philanthropy Funds, and the entire selection committee for believing in my vision,” shares Nagehan Sude Varol.

Senay Ataselim Yilmaz, Executive Director, Turkish Philanthropy Funds notes “At Turkish Philanthropy Funds, we believe that investing in the education of women is one of the most transformative acts we can undertake—for individuals, for communities, and for the world. Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan represent more than academic excellence; they embody the courage to challenge systems, the vision to shape policy, and the drive to lead with purpose. The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award does more than ease financial barriers—it affirms the belief that these young women belong in every room where decisions are made. Their journeys remind us that when we invest in women, we invest in a more inclusive and hopeful future for all.”

Dr. Seyhan Erden, a Sena Eken-Schieber Scholarship selection committee member, welcomed the 2025 award recipients. “It is an honor to celebrate the extraordinary talent and ambition of women from Türkiye pursuing graduate studies in economics. The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award recognizes not just academic excellence, but the courage to lead, question, and inspire. The passion and brilliance of these women constantly inspire me. Their determination to advance knowledge and drive positive change through economics gives me great hope for the future. We are proud to support these future economists who will shape more inclusive, innovative, and equitable societies,” shared Dr. Erden.

From a large and highly competitive pool of applicants, we are thrilled to support the journeys of Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan. While their stories are just beginning, they serve as powerful reminders that when women are empowered through education, they not only transform their own lives but also help shape a brighter world for all. As they step into this next chapter, we’re excited to see what they’ll accomplish next.

About The Sena Eken Schieber Economics Award and Sena Eken Schieber:

The Sena Eken Schieber Economics Award is supported by the Eken Schieber Scholarship Fund at Turkish Philanthropy Funds. The fund was established by Sena’s husband, George Schieber, to celebrate Sena Eken Schieber’s life and continue her legacy as a pioneering international civil servant, Turkish Government official, economist, and role model for many women. Sena was not only a highly competent, hard-working, and successful professional but also a wonderful wife, a caring and dedicated sister, aunt, family member, friend, and mentor. She was known as an inspirational leader who lived life to the fullest. The scholarship supports young women from Turkey from low-income families to pursue graduate degrees in economics in the United States. The Sena Eken Schieber Scholarship program was established in 2015 and, to date, has funded some ten very deserving young Turkish women for master’s degrees and Ph.Ds in accredited U.S. graduate economics programs, including the University of Chicago, Columbia, and Duke University.

About Turkish Philanthropy Funds: Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) is the leading U.S. community foundation for high-impact social investments dedicated to Turkish and Turkish-American communities. Since 2007, TPF has mobilized over $70M and has invested over $38M in grants with partners focused on addressing economic, social, and environmental needs in Turkey and around the world. By providing support to realize the philanthropic vision of individuals, families, and corporations, TPF donors and partners have reached thousands of families and directly funded over 350 projects.

For more updates about the application process for the 2026-27 Award cycle or other philanthropic accounts at TPF, please visit here. 

All three are Economics majors with GPAs above 3.7 from top universities in Türkiye, united by a shared dream: to make their mark in a discipline that remains male-dominated around the world. Their road to success was clear: to equip themselves by studying at the most prestigious universities in the United States, where they could learn from professors with exceptional knowledge and expertise and take full advantage of the valuable resources these institutions offer. Their success is a powerful testament to what becomes possible when talent meets opportunity. But despite putting everything they had into realizing their dreams, the cost of living and high tuition fees stood as yet another barrier on their path to higher education. That’s when a scholarship fund, established to honor the legacy of a brilliant, courageous, and determined economist, chose to believe in Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan—just like it has believed in many young women before them: the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award.

Established in memory of Sena Eken-Schieber by her husband, Dr. George Schieber, the award honors the values she embodied: kindness, hard work, passion, and bravery to lead in a traditionally male-dominated field. Sena represented a vision of what women can achieve when given the opportunity—and Dr. Schieber chose to carry that vision forward by opening doors for female students pursuing higher education in economics.

Since its founding in 2015, the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award has supported 19 outstanding female students throughout their graduate studies, enabling them to focus on their education without the burden of financial barriers.

“These young women reflect our hope for future sustainable global development, equity, prosperity, and knowledge sharing in our increasingly fragmented, reactionary, and dysfunctional world. I have little doubt that their motivations, social and personal aspirations, and formidable intelligence will fuel their future personal and intellectual growth, and assist them in making much-needed societal contributions globally, as well as in both Turkiye and the United States. In fact, a recent IMF study found that ‘education accounts for fully half of total economic growth and two-thirds of real income gains among the world’s poorest 20 percent since 1980,’ and, surprisingly, that ‘a year of postsecondary education will increase a person’s earnings by more than 13 percent over those of a person with secondary education alone.’ I wish them the best of luck on this challenging journey they have only just begun,” says Dr. George Schieber, Sena’s husband and a retired World Bank economist.

Sıla, an Economics major from Boğaziçi University, will begin her master’s in International and Development Economics at Yale University, where the acceptance rate is just 9%. Grateful for this opportunity, she shares: “This recognition is deeply meaningful to me not only as a student, but also as someone committed to making economics a more inclusive and impactful field. Economics has traditionally been a male-dominated discipline, but that is gradually changing as more women contribute to research and policymaking. The underrepresentation of women in this field makes me even more determined to be part of that change and to encourage others to see that they, too, belong in economics. Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award brings me one step closer to my goal of using economics as a tool to create a more fair, inclusive, and resilient society. Beyond easing the financial challenges of graduate study, this scholarship strengthens my belief that inclusive, equitable change is possible, and that I can be part of it. It encourages me to dream bigger, work harder, and push the boundaries of what I hope to achieve as an economist—building systems that open doors for many more people, not just a few.”

Ece, a double major in Sociology and Economics at Boğaziçi University, will continue her studies at Duke University, excited to deepen her research on policymaking. “Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is a great honor for me and a meaningful encouragement at an important point in my journey. Coming from Turkey and preparing to continue my academic studies at Duke University, it feels special to be recognized by a community that values education, perseverance, and contribution to society. Knowing that my efforts are seen and supported motivates me to work even harder toward my goals. I am truly grateful to Dr. George Schieber, the selection committee, and the Turkish Philanthropy Funds for their trust and support,” says Ece Hasgül.

Nagehan, another Economics major from Boğaziçi University, will continue her journey at Columbia University, hoping to set an example for young women in Türkiye and beyond—that they, too, can break barriers and overcome limitations. “Being selected for the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is both an incredible honor and a turning point in my academic journey. This scholarship is not only an investment in my education, but also a meaningful recognition of my goals and commitment to using economics as a tool for change. As I begin my master’s at Columbia University, I’m filled with gratitude and determination. This support strengthens my resolve to work toward a future where economic and social policies truly serve those who have long been left behind. I’m incredibly thankful to Dr. George Schieber, Turkish Philanthropy Funds, and the entire selection committee for believing in my vision,” shares Nagehan Sude Varol.

Senay Ataselim Yilmaz, Executive Director, Turkish Philanthropy Funds notes “At Turkish Philanthropy Funds, we believe that investing in the education of women is one of the most transformative acts we can undertake—for individuals, for communities, and for the world. Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan represent more than academic excellence; they embody the courage to challenge systems, the vision to shape policy, and the drive to lead with purpose. The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award does more than ease financial barriers—it affirms the belief that these young women belong in every room where decisions are made. Their journeys remind us that when we invest in women, we invest in a more inclusive and hopeful future for all.”

Dr. Seyhan Erden, a Sena Eken-Schieber Scholarship selection committee member, welcomed the 2025 award recipients. “It is an honor to celebrate the extraordinary talent and ambition of women from Türkiye pursuing graduate studies in economics. The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award recognizes not just academic excellence, but the courage to lead, question, and inspire. The passion and brilliance of these women constantly inspire me. Their determination to advance knowledge and drive positive change through economics gives me great hope for the future. We are proud to support these future economists who will shape more inclusive, innovative, and equitable societies,” shared Dr. Erden.

From a large and highly competitive pool of applicants, we are thrilled to support the journeys of Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan. While their stories are just beginning, they serve as powerful reminders that when women are empowered through education, they not only transform their own lives but also help shape a brighter world for all. As they step into this next chapter, we’re excited to see what they’ll accomplish next.

About The Sena Eken Schieber Economics Award and Sena Eken Schieber
The Sena Eken Schieber Economics Award is supported by the Eken Schieber Scholarship Fund at Turkish Philanthropy Funds. The fund was established by Sena’s husband, George Schieber, to celebrate Sena Eken Schieber’s life and continue her legacy as a pioneering international civil servant, Turkish Government official, economist, and role model for many women. Sena was not only a highly competent, hard-working, and successful professional but also a wonderful wife, a caring and dedicated sister, aunt, family member, friend, and mentor. She was known as an inspirational leader who lived life to the fullest. The scholarship supports young women from Turkey from low-income families to pursue graduate degrees in economics in the United States. The Sena Eken Schieber Scholarship program was established in 2015 and, to date, has funded some ten very deserving young Turkish women for master’s degrees and Ph.Ds in accredited U.S. graduate economics programs, including the University of Chicago, Columbia, and Duke University.

About Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF)
Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) is the leading U.S. community foundation for high-impact social investments dedicated to Turkish and Turkish-American communities. Since 2007, TPF has mobilized over $70M and has invested over $38M in grants with partners focused on addressing economic, social, and environmental needs in Turkey and around the world. By providing support to realize the philanthropic vision of individuals, families, and corporations, TPF donors and partners have reached thousands of families and directly funded over 350 projects.