“Recovery is not just about rebuilding structures; it is about restoring dignity, hope,
and the human spirit.”
By Şenay Ataselim-Yilmaz, PhD
This month, we mark the second anniversary of the February 6, 2023, twin earthquakes that forever changed southeastern Türkiye. In just eight hours, an unimaginable tragedy unfolded, affecting an entire community of 14 million people—16% of the country’s population—and turning their lives upside down. It was one of the worst disasters in Türkiye’s history, with its effects still echoing through the lives of millions. In this article, I would like to honor them: the lives lost and forever altered and rebuilt with resilience and hope.
While you can read about the strategies behind every grant we issued and the frameworks we used to ensure accountability in our 2nd-year impact report and the interview with our inspiring Programs Committee, I want to take you beyond the numbers today. I want to share something deeper—the human stories that have stayed with me: stories of resilience, rebuilding, and HOPE taking root in the most unexpected places.
Every time I visit the region; I am reminded why our work matters. It is not about the numbers, though they are significant. It is about the people whose lives are behind those numbers. It is about the mother who told me that the safe spaces we supported meant her children had a place to be children again. It is about the teacher who has turned a simple tent into a small school, determined to ensure the children in her community do not lose their future to this tragedy. It is about the shop owner who reopened his doors, saying, “I’m not just selling goods. I’m giving my neighbors a sense of normalcy.”
The impact of these earthquakes was immediate and overwhelming. Over 55,000 lives were lost, more than 100,000 people were injured, and 1.5 million were left without homes. Entire communities were uprooted, and over 230,000 buildings, including schools and hospitals, were reduced to rubble. Yet, amid the devastation, I saw something extraordinary: a collective will to heal, rebuild, and help one another.
In the days following the disaster, generosity poured in from around the globe. Over $20 million was raised by our community of donors. It was a profound reminder that compassion knows no boundaries in the face of unimaginable loss. This support allowed us to act quickly—to fund rescue operations, provide emergency supplies, and deliver critical resources to those in desperate need.
TPF’s first grant was issued on the earthquake day, ensuring rescue teams and survivors had access to essential supplies. But we did not stop there. Within 10 days, grants addressed critical needs such as food, immediate shelters, generators, and cash assistance. However, the road to recovery and sustainability was long and required addressing the ongoing and evolving needs of the earthquake-affected region.
From the beginning, it was clear that recovery would require more than emergency relief. It demanded a long-term commitment. At Turkish Philanthropy Funds, we understood that empowering local NGOs would be the key to sustaining recovery efforts. These organizations—rooted in the community and deeply connected to the people they serve—are the true lifelines in times of crisis. We worked hand in hand with them, not just to enable them but to strengthen them, ensuring we could lift communities together sustainably.
Over the past two years, our work has evolved. We have moved from addressing immediate needs to focusing on long-term recovery and resilience. We have supported mental health programs for children who lost their parents, economic initiatives to help families regain stability, and educational projects to ensure that young people can continue to dream of a brighter future. In total, we have issued 151 grants to 80 organizations, directly impacting nearly 2 million lives.
But numbers can only tell part of the story. What stays with me are the moments that cannot be quantified: the laughter of children playing in a new community center, the determination in the eyes of a woman learning new skills to support her family, and the quiet pride of a farmer reclaiming his land.
These moments remind me that recovery is not just about rebuilding structures; it is about restoring dignity, hope, and the human spirit. It is about ensuring that people see possibility instead of despair when looking to the future.
As we mark this solemn anniversary, I’m grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey. To our donors, collaborators, and the incredible partner NGOs on the ground: thank you for believing in this mission. And to the people of southeastern Türkiye: thank you for showing us what resilience looks like.
The road ahead is long, and challenges remain. But I am confident that we will continue to turn obstacles into opportunities together. With every visit to the region, I see the seeds of a brighter future planted. And I know that with your support, those seeds will grow into thriving communities where HOPE is not just a dream but a reality. ■
> 100,000 Donors United in Action from 116 Countries
and 174 Nationalities
Demonstrating the power of global solidarity.
> 253 Fundraisers Mobilized Support
Inspiring communities to come together for a shared cause.
> Institutional Support
Backed by 373 Corporate Donors and 97 Foundations, amplifying impact.
> Over $5 Million Raised in the First Week and a Total
of $20.4 Million
A testament to the extraordinary power of collective giving.
Behind the Scenes: How TPF’s Programs Committee Drives Impact
At the heart of TPF’s mission is a commitment to ensuring that every dollar entrusted
to us creates lasting change.
At the heart of Turkish Philanthropy Funds’ (TPF) mission to empower communities lies the invaluable work of its Programs Committee. They are pivotal in shaping the organization’s philanthropic initiatives, ensuring that every dollar entrusted to TPF is strategically allocated for maximum impact. Composed of dedicated volunteers with diverse expertise and a shared passion for giving back, the committee works closely alongside TPF staff to identify priorities, evaluate projects, and make informed funding decisions—particularly for critical efforts like the Earthquake Fund.
The committee’s collaboration with TPF staff is at the heart of its effectiveness. Together, they review grant proposals, engage with local partners, and align funding strategies with TPF’s mission to create lasting change. This partnership ensures that every dollar entrusted to TPF is allocated thoughtfully and effectively, driven by data, local insights, and a commitment to empowering those in need.
But what motivates these committee members to dedicate their time and expertise? How do they navigate the complexities of balancing urgent disaster relief with long-term development goals? And what does it take to make decisions that impact millions of lives?
In this exclusive interview, we sit down with members of TPF’s Programs Committee to learn more about their personal motivations, the decision-making process, and how they work with TPF staff to create a meaningful impact. They share insights into the meticulous process of allocating funds for earthquake recovery and resilience-building, as well as the challenges and rewards of their work.
Let us dive into the stories, strategies, and vision of the Programs Committee, highlighting how their teamwork with TPF staff amplifies the organization’s impact.
Personal Motivation and Involvement
What inspired you to join TPF’s Programs Committee?
Zeynep Oğuz Bilimer: As a part of TPF’s Programs Committee, I get to directly impact the recovery efforts of communities devastated by the earthquake. Being part of a team that decides how resources are allocated means I contribute to real solutions.
Gamze Ateş: Being part of this committee is a unique chance to contribute my expertise in strategy and decision-making to a cause that matters. It is an honor to help shape the TPF’s impact and lead efforts that set an example for disaster relief.
Filiz Bikmen: I was inspired to help TPF’s donor funds reach those in need and to do so in collaboration with esteemed and dedicated colleagues. As a Turkish American working in philanthropy, 25 years of my professional life have been dedicated to advising foundations and families to allocate funds to NGOs and helping recipients use funds effectively, I am so pleased to voluntarily share my expertise for such an important cause that is so close to my heart.
Metin Negrin: The decisions we make on this committee shape how communities rebuild and recover for years. Being part of that long-lasting change gives my role on the board profound purpose and meaning.
Ülkü Rowe: The sheer scale of devastation from the earthquake and the urgent need for resources inspired me to step up. I could not sit on the sidelines when there is such an important opportunity to drive change and bring hope to those affected.
Seran Müdüroğlu Trehan: I believe in the power of philanthropy to transform lives. Being on this committee allows me to ensure that funds are used efficiently and effectively to address earthquake survivors’ most urgent and critical needs.
What personal values or experiences drive your commitment to the work TPF does? / How does being a part of this committee align with your vision of giving back and creating impact?
Zeynep Oğuz Bilimer: My commitment to the work of Turkish Philanthropy Funds is rooted in my belief in resilience, compassion, and the power of collective action. Witnessing the lasting impact of TPF’s support on communities recovering from devastating events has shown me the importance of strategic philanthropy in fostering sustainable growth. Being part of the programs committee allows me to align my vision of giving back with actions that prioritize long-term recovery, creating tangible and transformative impact where it is needed most.
Gamze Ateş: My commitment to TPF is deeply rooted in my upbringing. My family valued community and giving back, viewing it not in financial terms, but as solving a problem or lending a hand. From early on in my life, I have seen how philanthropic acts can create a domino effect, benefiting society at large.
Filiz Bikmen: My values of integrity and service motivate my involvement with Turkish Philanthropy Funds. Experiencing firsthand the strength of communities in crisis inspired me to focus on creating opportunities for healing and growth. As part of the programs committee, I am able to collaborate on initiatives that have real impact, driving change in ways that honor both the donors’ trust and the survivors’ dignity.
Metin Negrin: My dedication to TPF’s work stems from my belief in the transformative power of hope and collaboration. Having seen the resilience of disaster-affected communities and the critical role philanthropy plays in their recovery, I am driven to contribute to rebuilding lives with dignity. Serving on the programs committee aligns perfectly with my vision of giving back by ensuring that resources are allocated strategically to create lasting impact and foster sustainable change.
Ülkü Rowe: The values of empathy, social equity, and perseverance drive my commitment to TPF’s mission. Visiting regions impacted by the earthquake reinforced the urgency and importance of addressing both immediate relief and long-term recovery needs. Being on the programs committee enables me to fulfill my vision of impactful giving by working to rebuild not just homes, but communities, lives, and opportunities for a brighter future.
Seran Müdüroğlu Trehan: Growing up with strong values of community and empathy, I have always believed in the responsibility to support those in need. My experiences visiting earthquake-affected regions have deepened my understanding of how philanthropic efforts can restore hope and rebuild lives. Through the programs committee, I can thoughtfully allocate resources to initiatives that empower individuals, ensuring we create enduring solutions and drive meaningful change.
…………………
Role and Impact of the Programs Committee
Can you describe the role of the Programs Committee in shaping TPF’s philanthropic strategy?
Zeynep Oğuz Bilimer: The Programs Committee plays a pivotal role in guiding TPF’s philanthropic efforts by setting priorities and ensuring alignment with our mission to maximize impact. We evaluate proposals, identify strategic focus areas, and provide recommendations on funding decisions. By leveraging our diverse expertise, we help shape a balanced approach that addresses both immediate needs and long-term goals, ensuring that every initiative contributes to sustainable community development.
How does the committee balance addressing urgent needs, like disaster relief, with long-term community development goals?
Ülkü Rowe: Balancing urgent needs with long-term goals requires a dual-focus strategy. We prioritize speed and efficiency to address critical gaps for immediate relief while keeping sustainability at the forefront. For example, we made our first grant on the very day of the earthquake and an additional four grants within the first week. By the end of the month, we had already supported more than 80 organizations. Simultaneously, we invest in projects that build resilience, focusing on mental health support, education, and economic development. This approach ensures that disaster recovery efforts meet immediate needs and evolve into long-term opportunities for growth and transformation within the affected communities.
Earthquake Fund and Decision-Making Process
The Earthquake Fund is a significant focus for TPF. Can you walk us through how the Programs Committee decides which projects or organizations to support?
Seran Müdüroğlu Trehan: The decision-making process is both rigorous and collaborative. We start by identifying critical areas of need through community engagement and input from local organizations. Proposals are reviewed against a set of criteria that includes the organization’s capacity, alignment with TPF’s priorities, and the potential for measurable impact. The committee currently prioritizes initiatives that complement existing efforts in the region.
What factors or criteria are considered most important when evaluating grant applications for earthquake recovery?
Şenay Ataselim Yılmaz: The key factors considered in our decision-making process revolve around alignment with priorities, organizational capacity, sustainability, and innovation, all underpinned by a commitment to transparency—both from TPF and the organizations we support.
We evaluate whether a proposal addresses critical needs such as education, economic development, or mental health, ensuring it aligns with TPF’s mission and focus areas. Equally critical is the organization’s capacity and credibility. We assess whether they have the expertise, infrastructure, and experience to execute their plans effectively while demonstrating responsible resource management.
Transparency on the part of the organizations is essential. We expect detailed, clear, and honest proposals that outline realistic goals, strategies, and budgets. This openness ensures that we fully understand how funds will be used and helps us build a relationship of trust and collaboration.
Sustainability and long-term impact are also crucial. We prioritize initiatives that address root causes and promise lasting benefits for the community. Additionally, scalability and innovation are highly valued, as we seek projects that can be expanded or replicated to create broader change.
We also emphasize collaboration to ensure that resources are maximized, and duplication of efforts is minimized.
Throughout this process, TPF maintains its own transparency by openly communicating our evaluation criteria and decisions. This mutual commitment to transparency fosters trust, accountability, and a shared vision for meaningful, sustainable impact.
How does the committee ensure that the funds have a lasting impact on the affected communities?
Gamze Ateş: We prioritize projects that incorporate capacity building, local ownership, and long-term sustainability. Regular monitoring, reporting, and frequent visits to the region enable us to understand better the evolving needs of the communities we serve. These visits along with our open communication channels, allow for ongoing dialogue with our partners on the ground to address challenges and adapt strategies as necessary. By fostering this collaborative approach, we ensure that funds are used effectively, outcomes align with intended goals, and the programs we support address root causes. Ultimately, our goal is to empower communities to thrive independently over time and create a lasting, positive impact.
Vision and Future Goals
Looking ahead, how does the committee plan to sustain support for earthquake-affected communities over the long term?
Metin Negrin: Our focus is on building resilience and self-reliance. This involves supporting programs in education, economic revitalization, and mental health services, along with aiding children with disabilities. During my visit to the earthquake-affected region, I witnessed the profound challenges communities are facing but also their incredible strength and determination to rebuild. This experience reinforced the importance of long-term, sustainable support that addresses both immediate and systemic needs.
To achieve this, we are exploring partnerships with other funders to ensure a comprehensive and collaborative approach. Strategic grant-making and periodic evaluations will remain central to guiding our efforts, ensuring that the support we provide is both impactful and tailored to the evolving needs of these communities.
Reflecting on Impact
Can you share a moment or project that you feel exemplifies the impact of the committee’s work?
Seda Özdemir: What impacts me the most are the field visits where I witness the transformative effects of the projects supported by TPF. Each visit opens a new perspective into the lives we touch and the lasting change we help create. Being in the field goes beyond monitoring TPF’s activities; it is about stepping into the realities of the people we serve, listening to their stories, and showing them that we are present and committed. These moments remind me that our work is not just about numbers or reports—it is about the human connection and the trust we build with the communities we support.
I am consistently moved by the deep respect and recognition TPF has earned among local and national NGOs. Seeing how valued TPF is in the region fills me with pride and inspires me to continue our mission. In the earthquake-affected areas, it has become evident that we are not just funders but active participants in rebuilding lives. Local NGOs and beneficiaries trust us and express their appreciation and hopes during our visits. One moment that particularly stands out is when a woman, benefiting from one of our women’s empowerment projects, shared these words with me: “If someone believed in me enough to give me this support, I have no choice but to believe in myself and rise.” Her words encapsulate the essence of what we aim to achieve—empowering individuals to believe in their potential and rebuild their lives with confidence.
How do you measure success as a Programs Committee member, both personally and for the communities you serve?
Filiz Bikmen: Success is measured through tangible outcomes—such as improved access to education, increased economic opportunities, and the resilience built within communities and TPF’s NGO partners. We evaluate how our grants have enabled organizations on the ground to deliver better programmatic services while enhancing their capacity and long-term sustainability.
Personally, I believe that success means witnessing our collective efforts translate into meaningful change for individuals and families. I had the privilege of experiencing this firsthand during our visit to the earthquake region, where we saw the transformative impact of our work. Ultimately, it is about ensuring that TPF’s resources are utilized responsibly to create a lasting legacy of hope and empowerment.
Final Thoughts
In one sentence, how would you describe the value of TPF’s Programs Committee to its mission and impact?
Zeynep Oğuz Bilimer: The committee’s work directly contributes to TPF’s mission by making thoughtful decisions on grant allocations, ensuring that relief efforts not only meet immediate needs but also drive lasting community resilience and recovery.
Gamze Ateş: By strategically guiding the distribution of resources, the Programs Committee is vital to TPF’s impact, empowering communities to rebuild with dignity, hope, and lasting support.
Filiz Bikmen: The Programs Committee is vital to Turkish Philanthropy Funds’ mission by carefully guiding grant decisions that support targeted recovery efforts, fostering resilience, and helping communities heal and rebuild for the future.
Metin Negrin: My visit to the earthquake region this past summer reaffirmed my commitment to TPF’s mission and the transformative power of philanthropy in driving meaningful change. Witnessing both the resilience of survivors and the dedication of volunteers deepened my resolve to ensure that our efforts not only provide immediate relief but also foster long-term recovery, dignity, and opportunity for affected communities.”
Ülkü Rowe: The Programs Committee enhances TPF’s impact by ensuring that every grant decision is focused on long-term recovery, helping to restore lives and communities in a sustainable and meaningful way.
Seran Müdüroğlu Trehan: The Programs Committee plays a crucial role in Turkish Philanthropy Funds’ mission by ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support long-term recovery and sustainable rebuilding efforts in earthquake-affected communities.
About TPF’s Programs Committee
Gamze Ateş is a social entrepreneur and the founder of My Beachy Side, a sustainable resort-wear brand that provides economic opportunities to over 1,000 women across Türkiye. Her designs are featured globally in luxury retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Revolve. Before launching her brand, Gamze founded Admiral Line, Inc., later acquired by DHL Worldwide, where she served as Executive Vice President, managing operations across 82 countries. Gamze’s dedication to empowering women and her innovative approach to sustainable business bring invaluable expertise to TPF’s Programs Committee, helping to shape initiatives with far-reaching social and economic impact.
Zeynep Oğuz Bilimer is a renowned creative director and philanthropist with a distinguished career in branding and communications. She holds a degree from the University of Virginia and a master’s from Pratt Institute. Zeynep honed her expertise working with legendary designers Ivan Chermayeff and Tom Geismar, known for iconic logos like Chase Bank and Mobil. She later founded ZEO, a boutique branding and design agency whose work has gained global recognition. Beyond her professional achievements, Zeynep and her family have championed equal educational opportunities in Türkiye and have advocated for contemporary Turkish art for over three decades. An avid art collector, she serves on the Chairman’s Council of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and as the secretary of the Board of Directors of Turkish Philanthropy Funds. Her creative insights and commitment to education and the arts enrich TPF’s Programs Committee’s vision and impact as the committee’s chair.
Filiz Bikmen is a leading philanthropy and social investment advisor with over 20 years of experience in Türkiye and globally. As the founding director of Esas Sosyal, she created award-winning programs like the First Chance Program, addressing youth employment. She also serves as senior advisor to EMpower – The Emerging Markets Foundation, leading grantmaking efforts for at-risk youth in Türkiye. Filiz’s leadership roles at the Sabancı Foundation, TUSEV, and international boards such as the European Foundation Centre reflect her strategic acumen in philanthropy. Her deep understanding of social impact and grantmaking processes strengthens the decision-making of TPF’s Programs Committee, particularly in disaster recovery and community development efforts.
Metin Negrin is the founder and president of Lexin Capital, a New York-based private investment firm specializing in real estate. With a career spanning over 30 years, Metin has expertise in strategic investment, asset management, and equity and debt structures. Before Lexin, he cofounded The Athena Group and held senior roles at LaSalle Partners and Citibank. Metin’s leadership extends beyond business, serving as chairman of the Board at The Allen-Stevenson School and as a director at The American Turkish Society. His analytical and strategic approach to investments adds depth to TPF’s Programs Committee, ensuring resources are directed to impactful and sustainable initiatives.
Ülkü Rowe is an engineering director at Google Cloud’s Office of the CTO, specializing in cloud computing, analytics, and AI solutions for the financial services industry. Before Google, Ülkü held executive roles at J.P. Morgan Chase and Bank of America, leading transformative technology initiatives across global teams. She holds a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Illinois and serves on multiple advisory boards, including the Fulbright Association and her alma mater’s engineering boards. Ülkü’s expertise in technology and innovation bolsters TPF’s Programs Committee, enabling forward-thinking solutions in philanthropy and disaster resilience.
Seda Özdemir Şimşek serves as the TPF Earthquake Fund Lead, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s Programs Committee. Seda is a dedicated researcher, project developer, and coordinator with a rich background in civil society organizations, combining her expertise to drive impactful and sustainable initiatives. In addition to her leadership at TPF, Seda has served as a university lecturer for many years, where she brought her academic insights into the classroom. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations from Marmara University and a master’s degree in modern Turkish history from Boğaziçi University, where she is currently completing her PhD. Seda’s extensive experience in civil society, academia, and disaster recovery reflects her unwavering commitment to fostering community-centered solutions and creating lasting positive change.
Seran Müdüroğlu Trehan brings decades of experience in philanthropy, volunteerism, and the arts. She serves on the Türkiye Ashoka Support Network and the Board of the Bard Center for Decorative Arts and Material Culture. A graduate of the London School of Economics and Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, Seran’s professional career includes roles at the World Bank and UNICEF, focusing on public affairs and international development. Her extensive volunteer work on women’s and children’s issues and her passion for the arts provide TPF’s Programs Committee with a well-rounded perspective on fostering social change and community engagement.
Şenay Ataselim Yılmaz serves as the executive director of Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) and has been a driving force behind the organization since its inception. She plays a critical role in fostering innovation and collaboration to ensure the success of initiatives like the Earthquake Fund and other impactful projects. Şenay is also a writer, lecturer, and passionate advocate for social change. Her contributions to philanthropy and community empowerment have been widely recognized, including the 2025 Beacon Award presented by the Ellis Island Honors Society, the International Herst Fellowship by the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society, and being named a Young Society Leader by the American Turkish Society. In addition to her work at TPF, Şenay teaches at Fordham University and the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society, sharing her expertise with the next generation of leaders. She holds a PhD in political science from the Graduate Center, CUNY, and has completed executive education programs at Columbia and Harvard Business Schools. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Şenay is a trained yoga and mindfulness instructor, emphasizing holistic approaches to leadership and well-being. ■
About Turkish Philanthropy Funds
For 17 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.
www.tpfund.org
………………………
Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz leads Turkish Philanthropy Funds as its Executive Director and has been instrumental since its inception. She is a writer, lecturer, and passionate advocate for social change. Recognized with the 2025 Beacon Award presented by the Ellis Island Honors Society, the International Herst Fellow by the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society, and as a Young Society Leader by the American Turkish Society, Senay teaches at Fordham University and the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society. She holds a PhD in Political Science from the Graduate Center, CUNY, and has completed executive education programs at Columbia and Harvard Business Schools. Additionally, Senay is a trained yoga and mindfulness instructor.
