Statue of a Young Turkish Man Erected in the Netherlands
A statue of a young Turkish man has been unveiled in Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht in the western Netherlands thanks to a project initiated by ABN AMRO, a Dutch bank, with the aim of inspiring young people to make a positive impact on the world. This marks the first time a statue of a Turk has been erected in the country.
Inspiring Youth to Make a Difference
The project, carried out in collaboration with the youth organization "Young Impact and ABN AMRO," is designed to provide a platform for students who have made remarkable contributions to society. The goal is to encourage their peers to translate their aspirations for a better world into tangible actions.
Empowering Students from Low-Income Families
Alihan Uzun, a 22-year-old student from Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht pursuing a master's degree in technical public administration at Delft Technical University, developed the "My Dream CV" project. This initiative, created for students from underserved backgrounds, aims to level the playing field by helping them prepare their ideal resumes.
Equal Opportunities for All
Uzun's project focuses on providing equal opportunities for young people from less privileged families who often face limited prospects. Through workshops, he assists these individuals in crafting their CVs and envisioning a future where every child has an equal shot at success.
Breaking Barriers in Education
In the Netherlands, a student's academic trajectory is heavily influenced by their parents' financial and social status, leading to disparities in opportunities. Uzun's efforts aim to empower his students to dream big and work towards achieving their goals, irrespective of their starting point.
Preserving Heritage and Inspiring Future Generations
Reflecting on his Turkish roots, Uzun emphasizes the importance of honoring the struggles of previous generations and building upon their legacy. He encourages young Turks in the Netherlands to focus on what they can contribute to society, rather than questioning their place in the country.
Recognition and Encouragement
Uzun's dedication to his project has earned him a nomination in the "Equal Chances" category at the Youth Impact Awards. Despite facing challenges during the project's documentation, his perseverance led to the successful completion of the initiative and the subsequent erection of his statue.
Empowering the Youth for a Better Tomorrow
As his statue stands on display until the Youth Impact Awards ceremony, Uzun advises young individuals to not only pursue personal success but also engage in meaningful endeavors that benefit society as a whole. His story serves as a testament to the impact one person can have in shaping a brighter future.