KOPRU - Bridging Hearts is a non-profit organization dedicated to building understanding, peace, and prosperity between local and immigrant communities through the creative economy. Founded by a group of Turks and Syrians, our mission is to find long-lasting solutions for the challenges faced by communities such as inadequate education, youth unemployment, gender inequality, religious conservatism, and the lack of social cohesion. Based in Şanlıurfa, a city located on the border between Syria and Turkey, which is already home to over 500,000 Syrian immigrants, we aim to embrace both local and immigrant communities, with a particular focus on youth and women.

Despite the economic challenges of the region, we see its rich cultural heritage as an opportunity for social harmony. At KOPRU, we offer various programs and initiatives to achieve our goals. This includes digital art workshops, artist residencies, music and theater festivals, literature and documentary research, and craft training programs.

We are committed to creating a sustainable, circular economic model that promotes cultural life, creates in-demand products, and protects the environment. Our vision is to promote creative expression as a means to foster social cohesion and preserve cultural heritage and collective history. We strive to enhance cultural and social dialogue, support local creativity through circular business models, and increase digital inclusion.

As a female-led organization, we prioritize gender mainstreaming and actively promote community-based participation, a circular economy, integrity, diversity, and accountability. Join us in our mission to create an art-loving, tolerant, and open society where everyone can thrive, regardless of their differences. Write to us and get involved today!