UNDP and Boyner Group launch the Future Women Leaders in Sustainability Program 

Istanbul, 21 October 2024 - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Türkiye and Boyner Group today have launched an initiative aimed at empowering young women. The "Future Women Leaders in Sustainability Program – She Lab" fills a critical gap by providing leadership in sustainability training specifically for young women, marking a first in its field.  Supported voluntarily by successful actress Merve Dizdar, She Lab is set to provide leadership training to approximately 250 young women over three terms in its first year, equipping them with the skills necessary to lead in sustainability initiatives.

The details of the project were shared at a meeting held in Istanbul with the participation of Boyner Group Board Member Ümit Boyner, actress Merve Dizdar and UNDP Türkiye Resident Representative Louisa Vinton. She Lab aims to empower young women in their 3rd and 4th years of university, as well as graduate students, by offering education in sustainable development, enhancing their leadership skills, and encouraging project creation. Each 3-month training period will include courses on personal development, sustainability goals, and leadership. Additionally, participants will gain hands-on experience through mentoring, internships, and job shadowing opportunities.

Merve Dizdar, who volunteered to take part in the project’s promotional film, inspires young women by emphasizing the message, “If this world is going to change, it will change with women.” Her involvement reinforces the program’s mission to empower future female leaders.

“Those who are not part of the solution become part of the problem”

“We face many difficulties and obstacles in the struggle for gender equality. However, despite all the darkness, we continue to turn our faces to hope and work,” said Boyner Group Board Member Ümit Boyner, who stated that they have seen women’s rights as a matter of democracy from the very beginning. “Last month, innocent women were murdered, the streets were not safe, and we faced violence. Despite these negativities, we are determined to work for a more just society. Because we know that every step taken to ensure gender equality will shape the future of not only women but also the entire society. We believe that those who are not part of the solution will remain part of the problem. This is exactly why we are constantly striving.” 

A unique project in Türkiye

Boyner stated that they have undertaken many impressive projects that have placed women at the center of business and social life since 2009, and continued: “The rate of women participating in the workforce in our country is only 34.1%; this situation constitutes a major obstacle in terms of economic growth and social development. With She Lab, we aim to create a more inclusive business world by contributing to gender equality. After successfully implementing our project in Türkiye, we plan to expand it to other countries through UNDP.”

“Together, we are creating a brighter future where women can lead the way”

“We are proud to collaborate with the Boyner Group on the She Lab initiative, a transformative program that not only empowers young women but also reinforces our commitment to sustainable development,” said UNDP Resident Representative Louisa Vinton. “Through this innovative platform, the next generation of women leaders can gain the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the digital age while protecting the future of our planet. With women in the lead, the world stands a much better chance of achieving the resilient future we all want.”

“Women should be supported in every aspect of life”

Actress Merve Dizdar emphasized that empowering women and amplifying their voices in society has always been a top priority for her. "Being part of the She Lab project brings me indescribable happiness," said Dizdar. "As a woman, I am committed to doing everything I can to help young women find their courage, unlock their potential, believe in themselves, and pursue their dreams."