Every summer, the Turkish Red Crescent (Türk Kızılay) breathes life into a powerful tradition — youth camps that bring together young minds from across Türkiye. This year, over 1,000 high school students from 53 provinces are taking part in this transformative experience, spread across two main locations: the serene island of Heybeliada in Istanbul and the forest-rich Çamkoru area in Ankara.
These camps are more than just seasonal gatherings. They serve as learning hubs where volunteerism, solidarity, creativity, and individual growth take center stage. By blending themes like art, technology, climate action, and gastronomy, the Turkish Red Crescent is reshaping what it means to be a socially responsible and proactive young person in Türkiye.
Where Flavor Meets Social Impact
One of the standout themes this year is “Chefs of Kindness,” a project that integrates culinary arts with community values. The Heybeliada camp hosted a special guest: world-renowned chef Ebru Baybara Demir, an innovator in social gastronomy and a member of the Presidential Social Policies Board. Her presence sparked inspiration among students, many of whom are enrolled in culinary high schools in cities like Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Zonguldak, and Istanbul.
Demir’s message was clear and powerful. Sharing her journey that began in Mardin, she encouraged students not to rush to metropolitan dreams but to explore the power of local impact. “I know many of you are dreaming of opening your own restaurant in Istanbul. But let me tell you something — if you want to do this job right, stay where you are. Your roots are valuable,” she said.
This message, underscoring the value of localism and cultural integration in cuisine, resonated deeply. “Social gastronomy is about adding your country’s values to what you cook — and making it meaningful for the people you serve. I believe each of you can take this further with your own talent, heart, and vision,” she added.
Transforming Volunteering Through Climate Awareness
Another compelling module this year was “Climate-Conscious Volunteering,” which brought together nearly 80 students from provinces including Bilecik, Osmaniye, Şanlıurfa, and Kütahya. Through engaging workshops and environmental activities, participants learned about the realities of climate change, waste management, and sustainable living.
At the heart of this discussion was Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation. His session covered the intricacies of waste cycles, the importance of responsible production, and how every individual plays a role in preserving the planet. These hands-on sessions offered not just theory but practical applications — equipping students to become change-makers in their own communities.
From sorting recyclables to exploring the lifecycle of plastic, students participated in interactive projects designed to deepen their environmental literacy. Many left the sessions with ideas for their own initiatives, ranging from composting programs in schools to neighborhood clean-up campaigns.
Beyond the Classroom: Why These Camps Matter
Established in 1936, the Turkish Red Crescent’s youth camps have long been instrumental in nurturing civic awareness and empathy among Türkiye’s youth. However, in recent years, these programs have evolved into multidimensional platforms that blend adventure with education, and fun with social responsibility.
The Çamkoru Youth Camp, located in a scenic area of Ankara, is another essential piece of this puzzle. Set against a backdrop of pine forests and natural trails, the camp opened its doors this August to 400 students from 21 provinces. Here, participants will experience a mix of nature-based learning, group challenges, and introspective discussions that promote both team spirit and personal growth.
The design of Çamkoru Camp is intentionally immersive. From digital detox zones to hands-on creative labs, the camp encourages students to rediscover the world — and themselves — away from screens and noise. It’s not uncommon for participants to leave with lasting friendships, new passions, and a stronger sense of direction for their future.
Redefining the Role of the Turkish Red Crescent
Chef Ebru Baybara Demir’s reflections summed it up best. “Like many of you, I’ve had a connection with Kızılay since childhood. But today, I’ve seen a new face of this organization — one that invests in the future of this country in the most meaningful way.”
This evolving identity of the Turkish Red Crescent — from emergency aid provider to youth mentor — is a strategic shift in how humanitarian organizations engage with younger generations. It’s not just about teaching values but creating environments where those values can be lived, tested, and reshaped.
These camps are not isolated initiatives; they’re part of a broader vision to cultivate a Türkiye where empathy, initiative, and innovation walk hand in hand. From empowering girls to take leadership roles in sustainability to encouraging young men to explore artistic expression, the camps challenge stereotypes and build inclusive communities.
Looking at What Comes Next
As Türkiye continues to grapple with global issues such as climate disruption, economic transitions, and social polarization, empowering its youth has never been more critical. The Turkish Red Crescent’s youth camps are proving to be more than a seasonal event — they are seeds for future leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
With each passing year, these camps are expanding in scope and ambition. And with more partnerships, expert involvement, and inclusive programming, their impact is likely to grow exponentially.
If you’re a student dreaming of making a difference, or a parent hoping to broaden your child’s worldview, these camps offer a launchpad for transformation. And for Türkiye as a whole, they represent a beacon of hope — a sign that the future is not just arriving, but being shaped with care, intention, and collective spirit.
