TPF Gala – A Journey of Impact and Hope

admin — Mon, 12 May 2025 22:10:36 +0000

Some nights leave a lasting mark—not just in memory, but in movement. The 2025 TPF Gala was one of those gatherings.

Together, we raised $2.7 million—a testament to the compassion, generosity, and unity of a community determined to make a difference. Whether you joined us in person or supported from afar, your belief in our mission helped turn this moment into momentum.

For the past 18 years, Turkish Philanthropy Funds has been on a journey rooted in purpose: to uplift, to empower, and to give with intention. While we often unite around causes and projects that transform lives, the opportunity to come together around our shared values was profoundly meaningful. The Gala offered a rare and beautiful chance to reflect on how far we’ve come—and to look forward with renewed hope.

This year, the Gala carried an especially powerful purpose. A part of the funds raised will support the TPF Changemaker Scholarship Fund, giving promising young people the chance to pursue their dreams and lead change in their communities and beyond. It’s a commitment to the future—and to those who will shape it.

One of the most inspiring moments of the evening was honoring Eren, Fatih, and Eda Özmen with the Philanthropic Leadership Award. Their unwavering commitment to giving has left an indelible impact. The Özmen Family leads with vision, and their generosity has changed countless lives. As our Chairman, Mustafa Kemal Abadan, shared in his opening remarks, their philanthropy goes beyond generosity—it is grounded in empathy, foresight, and the belief that opportunity changes everything.

And as Hamdi Ulukaya, a past recipient of the Philanthropic Leadership Award, so eloquently noted during his tribute to the Özmen Family, their example challenges us all to give more, do more, and lead with empathy.

We’d like to extend our deepest gratitude to our supporters and donors for their unwavering support, stewardship, and compassion. Your partnership is what allows us to dream bigger and do better.

To our guests—thank you for bringing your energy, your joy, and your belief in our work.

To our incredible team—thank you for months of tireless planning, creativity, and dedication. You made this extraordinary night possible. A special thank you to TPF Gala Creative Director, Merve Gursel, whose vision and artistry shaped the look, feel, and flow of the evening in ways that left a lasting impression.

And to those who brought their talent to the program—Emma Shapplin, whose breathtaking performance lifted our spirits, Mert Onaran, whose digital artistry transported us, and Julide Ates, whose grace as Master of Ceremonies guided us through every moment—thank you for making the night unforgettable.

From the stage to every seat in the room, this was a night of collective impact—and it is only the beginning

Read Messages of tpf gala supporters

TPF Chairman Mustafa Kemal Abadan began the evening by warmly welcoming guests and expressing heartfelt gratitude for the community’s steadfast support. He then honored the 2025 Philanthropic Leadership Award recipients—Eren, Fatih, and Eda Özmen—highlighting their inspiring dedication to philanthropy, grounded in empathy, vision, and a belief in opportunity. “The Özmen family truly embodies what it means to be the change,” he said, acknowledging their impactful work in education, earthquake recovery, and innovative resilience efforts. He closed by celebrating the power of compassion and the lasting impact it creates.