Educate the Children of the Future, Empower the Mothers!

Spearheaded by Hatice Mutlu, head of Soroptimist Türkiye at the Gültepe Community Education Center, the project was built on trust, dedication, and the belief that lasting change begins with education. English lessons are held weekly for local children, taught by Ferhan Düzgören—a committed Soroptimist and experienced English teacher. Simultaneously, mothers attend tailored empowerment sessions, creating a dual-impact programme that uplifts entire families.

Each week, a different Soroptimist Club from Istanbul leads sessions for the mothers, covering topics such as financial literacy, consumer rights, health and hygiene, leadership, and protection against gender-based and cyber violence. These interactive trainings raise awareness, promote independence, and encourage women to become more active in their communities.

The project also embraces social cohesion: national holidays are celebrated with the children, while food aid and shared meals during Ramadan strengthen bonds among families. In doing so, the initiative has reached over 250 beneficiaries in just one year.

A key feature of the project is its strong advocacy dimension. It not only educates but also fosters a culture of rights, resilience, and agency—especially among women who have traditionally been excluded from such conversations. This has positioned the Gültepe Community Education Center as a vital hub of local transformation.

Entirely initiated and implemented by Turkish Soroptimists, the project is a shining example of collaborative action, community engagement, and the Soroptimist mission in practice. It has enhanced the visibility and reputation of Soroptimist Clubs both locally and internationally and serves as a replicable model for meaningful, grassroots-driven change.

When you educate a child and empower a mother, you light the way for future generations. This is exactly what the Soroptimists in Türkiye are doing—one lesson, one life at a time.