Global energy company - Karadeniz Holding has launched the One World Karadeniz Foundation, its philanthropic arm, to boost investment into initiatives aimed at fostering a sustainable and equitable world.
Guided by the company's 'One World' philosophy, which ensures no one is left behind and that basic rights are universally accessible, the foundation will concentrate on three main pillars in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals: education and social welfare, humanitarian relief, and environmental sustainability.
One World Karadeniz Foundation
"I am delighted to launch the One World Karadeniz Foundation. As a company, we are committed to social responsibility, and this is a crucial step in uniting our efforts to create a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world," said Zeynep Harezi Yılmaz, Deputy Chair of One World Karadeniz Foundation.
Zeynep Harezi Yılmaz adds, "The Foundation's programs are specifically designed to meet local needs worldwide, from training fishermen in Brazil, to upskilling female students and working with community members across Africa. Karadeniz Holding has a proven history of empowering young women and girls in particular, and I'm excited to further expand this legacy through our new Foundation."
Survivors' longer-term welfare
Lifeships not only provide immediate humanitarian support such as food, board, and healthcare
Most recently the company has leveraged its expertise in floating infrastructure to design and deploy its 'Lifeships' – self-sufficient, fully equipped humanitarian emergency vessels.
In February 2023, two Lifeships were immediately deployed to support over 12,000 victims in southern Turkey after the devastating earthquakes, offering refuge and critical services to the local community of Hatay.
The Lifeships not only provide immediate humanitarian support such as food, board, and healthcare but are also equipped to support survivors' longer-term welfare, with one of the vessels adapted to serve as a boarding school for local students. This story is told in a documentary aired by CNBC Africa on April 18th.
STEM-related scholarships
Karadeniz Holding has long implemented educational scholarships and vocational training, investing over 2.5 million USD to address opportunity inequality for women and girls. Initiatives range from STEM-related scholarships to partnerships with local and international NGOs, supporting the education and economic empowerment of thousands of young people worldwide.
Additionally, the company has launched reforestation programs in Ghana and Brazil, underscoring its commitment to community partnership and responsibility to the well-being of future generations. Coinciding with Earth Day, Karadeniz Holding celebrated the launch of the foundation at its headquarters, with staff and partners from its global offices in attendance.