Taking a Moment to Remember
Social Entrepreneurship, Empowerment and Cohesion Project | May 2026
Some months pass by quickly, filled with hard work and constant activity; others remind us to pause and look around once again. For many of us, May was one of those months.
From celebrating labour and youth to sharing festive meals and moments of solidarity, this month reminded us of something important: people grow stronger not only through work, but also through taking breaks, breathing, sharing, and building connections.
In the pace of daily life, we often feel the need to keep moving forward — to be faster, accomplish more, and stay constantly active. Yet sometimes, what we need most is a brief pause: a chance to rest, reflect, refocus, and remember why we started this journey in the first place.
Sometimes, a pause becomes the most essential part of a long journey. Stopping does not mean giving up; it means regaining strength. To continue creating and contributing, we must also protect the things that nurture our well-being.
The work we witnessed in the field this month reminded us of exactly that. People coming together, young people continuing to learn, entrepreneurs persevering in their efforts, and new connections being formed… Once again, we saw that development grows not only through action but also through solidarity.
Perhaps this is exactly how strong communities are built: by gathering around the same table, making space for one another, and slowing down when needed to truly listen. Because where people continue walking together, hope continues its journey as well.
This month, we are once again reminded of the value of pausing, taking a breath, and being together.
What Happened in the Field in May?
Education and Gastronomy Activities Continue in Şanlıurfa
Throughout May, educational and production activities continued across SEECO-supported centres in the Karacadağ Development Agency region. Within the “Ancient Flavours by Producing Women” project implemented by Şanlıurfa Metropolitan Municipality, culinary training courses were launched alongside existing hairdressing programmes. During the same period, computer literacy, sewing, handicrafts, culinary arts, and literacy courses were offered at the Şanlıurfa Social Entrepreneurship Centre.
At the Şanlıurfa Social Entrepreneurship Prototyping Centre, participants received training on solar energy system installation, gaining both technical knowledge and hands-on experience. In addition, as part of Turkish Cuisine Week, the “Şanlıurfa Cuisine with Little Chefs” event introduced children to the region’s rich culinary heritage.
These activities continue to bring together participants of different age groups through education, production, and cultural exchange.
Strengthening Social Impact in Kahramanmaraş
Educational and entrepreneurial activities continued throughout May at SEECO-supported centres in the Eastern Mediterranean region. At the Kahramanmaraş Social Entrepreneurship Centre (SOGEM), practical Canva training sessions were organised to enhance the digital communication skills of civil society organisations. During the same period, the information meeting for “Social Impact Marathon ‘26” brought together young people, entrepreneurs, and institutional representatives around social impact-oriented ideas.
Meanwhile, learning activities and preparatory courses supporting students’ academic development continued at the Mehmet Arıkan Social Entrepreneurship Centre. Alongside university and high school entrance exam preparation programmes, the centre remained an accessible learning space for young people.
DOGA JAM Brought Young People Together Through Digital Creation
The third edition of the “DOGA JAM” event, organised by the DOGA Social Entrepreneurship Centre at İstiklal University, brought together young people interested in digital game development from different provinces across Türkiye. Participants combined creativity with technology, collaborating in teams to develop innovative game concepts.
The event continues to contribute to the region’s growing gaming ecosystem while fostering young people’s digital production skills, teamwork, and innovative thinking.
An Inspiring Entrepreneurship Gathering in Adıyaman
The “Inspiration Gatherings” organised at the centre established within the Adıyaman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, supported by İpekyolu Development Agency and funded through a SEECO grant, continue to strengthen the local entrepreneurship ecosystem.
This month’s guest was Şıh Abdurrahman Yücel, founder of Doğu Çelik. Sharing his entrepreneurial journey in industry and manufacturing, Yücel inspired aspiring entrepreneurs through his experiences.
By bringing together success stories from different sectors, these gatherings create opportunities not only for learning but also for developing new perspectives and meaningful connections.
An International Scientific Gathering in Yumurtalık
The 9th International Mediterranean Scientific Research Congress, hosted by Çukurova University Yumurtalık Vocational School, brought together hundreds of academics and students from different countries. Highlighting interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, the congress featured presentations covering artificial intelligence, engineering, law, technology, and many other fields.
As part of the programme, participants were also introduced to the Tourism-Oriented Entrepreneurship Centre established with SEECO support. This international gathering strengthened scientific cooperation while increasing Yumurtalık’s visibility in education and entrepreneurship.
Combining Education and Technology in Wood Manufacturing
Training and production activities continue at the “New Horizons in Wood Manufacturing: Technology and Innovation” Centre, established with SEECO support. Participants receive hands-on training in CNC machining, computer-aided design (CAD), and digital manufacturing technologies while actively engaging in real production processes.
The centre aims to enhance the vocational skills of host community members, women, and disadvantaged groups. Through the production of wooden furniture and decorative products, participants gain valuable technical experience and take important steps toward employment opportunities.
By bringing together education, production, and social inclusion, the centre continues to strengthen entrepreneurship and skilled workforce capacity within the region.