During our trip to Greece to visit family friends, I faced a reality that was nothing like what I had imagined. Every person we encountered during our trip was a refugee from our home country, Turkey, and their stories seemed never-ending, filled with horror after horror. Returning home to my own comfort felt unsettling after being with people who had endured such hardships. Their stories, still etched in my mind, motivated me to use my proactive leadership and drive to make a positive impact on their lives, in hopes that it would create a ripple effect. Bringing together my peers, I co-founded an organization dedicated to fundraising for the betterment of refugees in Greece.
As Co-Founder and Treasurer, I dedicated my after-school hours and weekends to our cause. Leading an organization was undeniably challenging, requiring constant effort to navigate the complexities of motivating diverse board members and aligning disparate ideas. The task at hand extended beyond merely being present; I actively fostered collaboration by regularly checking in with team members, ensuring everyone remained on course throughout meetings and events. My first responsibility as treasurer was to obtain sponsors and set up a system of financial accountability. As momentum within the organization started to rise, my role expanded to creating partnerships with other organizations for events and planning various fundraisers, like bake sales and festival stands. In addition, I made it my responsibility to bring awareness about this grave situation, which helped inspire empathy and support from others. Since our establishment a year ago, we have raised approximately $4,000 to support our brothers and sisters in Greece.
Being part of this organization, not only as a member but also as a leader, has been a transformative experience. It empowered me to use my leadership skills and ambition to positively influence the lives of refugees in Greece and communities worldwide. The impact of the organization extends beyond the monetary contributions; spreading awareness and shedding light on the silent struggles faced by many has been instrumental in shaping the best version of myself.