02/02/2026
The 'Discover Yourself' Project, supported by the Sabancı Foundation, was carried out at Van Hacı Ömer Sabancı Primary School between January 19-23 with the participation of 11 volunteer students from Sabancı University.
Within the scope of the project, workshops were held with fourth-grade students studying at Van Hacı Ömer Sabancı Primary School on the themes of children's rights, cultural interaction, approach to disability, urban awareness, gender, and conflict-reconciliation-peace. In addition, while supporting the children's participation and creativity through artistic and cultural activities, the aim was for the university volunteers to be role models for the children.
Sabancı University students who participated in the project shared their experiences as follows:
“Throughout the 'Discover Yourself' Project, I witnessed completely different stories and completely different dreams. Learning, sharing, and discovering together with the children contributed a lot to me. I felt motivated again by their questions, their curiosity, and their laughter. I’m so glad to have been a part of this journey.” (Enes Mercan)
“The ‘Discover Yourself’ Project allowed us to see how we could work harmoniously with the next generation. Establishing a deep connection with them in a short time and making them come to school with excitement every day was an incredible experience.” (Ayşe Eda Alaca)
“Spending time with the children within the scope of this project was very valuable to me. I realized once again how special, precious, and valuable each child is, regardless of where they live or their culture. I also learned a lot during the time I spent with them. I hope that when I leave, I will have left them with beautiful memories that will remain in their minds.” (İdil Işıl Yıldırım)
“This civic involvement project, which we carried out with children in Van, turned into both a fun and educational experience thanks to the communication we established through games while spending time with them and learning together. The children’s curiosity and energy made this process even more meaningful. Participating in this project made me feel how valuable the moments shared with the children and the effort put in are.” (Efe Kuşcu)
“It was a fulfilling week with a wonderful team and wonderful children. We spent tiring but equally enjoyable days in Van, from early morning until evening. Saying goodbye to the children at the end of the week was very difficult for all of us. It was a project I’m so glad I participated in.” (Ege Tarık Sağıroğlu)
“Thanks to ‘Discover Yourself,’ we communicate with children one-on-one, get to know them, and teach each other many things. We listen to their lives, contribute to their understanding of social and environmental issues as much as we can, and create wonderful memories. ‘Discover Yourself Van’ was a very beautiful and valuable project. I think it contributed to me and transformed me.” (Eylül Yaltır)
Also, on the closing day, Gökçen Göksel, founder of the Game Atlas social enterprise, one of the Sabancı Foundation's 14th Season Changemakers, taught children the traditional nine stones game, providing both a fun and educational experience.
We would like to thank the Sabancı Foundation for their support and valuable contributions to the project.
