From Switzerland to Malatya – This Youth-Led Project Will Bring Hope to Many Children Affected by the Earthquakes

Last year, a group of high school students in Switzerland transformed their passion for change into meaningful action. United by friendship, a shared commitment to philanthropy, and a deep love for Türkiye, the BTF Youth Group in Switzerland recently held a successful fundraiser to support the rebuilding of educational spaces in earthquake-affected Malatya. Their tool of choice? Film.

The group organized a special screening of the documentary Feyza’s Kitchen to raise both awareness and funds for a cause close to their hearts: building a Learning Center for children in Malatya whose education was severely disrupted by the February 6 earthquakes.

At the forefront of this initiative is Deniz Altaş, a student with family roots in Malatya and a passion for architecture. “I could have been in that earthquake. I could have lived that trauma,” she shared in a recent meeting with BTF. “That’s why we want to do as much as we can—so we can share our resources with them.” For Deniz, the project was born from both a personal connection and a desire to create something lasting and impactful.

What began as Deniz’s vision quickly grew into a dynamic team effort. Ella, a close friend and fellow student, joined early on. “We really care about this. It’s so much bigger than a school project,” she explained. Anna, who described a lifelong interest in philanthropy, brought her energy and perspective to the group. “It makes me happy knowing that we’ll have an actual impact,” she said.

George, who joined later, was inspired by the project’s scope and significance. Of Greek descent with family roots in Türkiye, he emphasized the shared humanity behind their mission: “When people are suffering, no matter what identity or background one has, it’s important to help.” The team recently welcomed their newest member, Leon Kurdoğlu, further expanding this inspiring group of young changemakers.

Together, they planned and executed their first major fundraising event through the screening of Feyza’s Kitchen. Their efforts rallied support from their school community and beyond—raising more than $45,000 USD to date. This incredible momentum has laid a solid foundation for the Learning Center in Malatya and inspired others to join the cause.

At BTF, we’re incredibly proud to support and amplify the work of these students. They are proving that impact has no age limit—and that when empathy meets action, even a high school project can lay the foundation for something extraordinary.

Stay tuned for updates as the Learning Center project in Malatya continues to take shape! In the meantime, visit this page if you want to learn more and donate.