MAXMINDS is proposed by the Earthquake Relief Working Group, which was established within Max Planck Society (MPG) shortly after the devastating earthquakes that struck areas of Turkey and Syria on 6 February 2023. The Working Group brings together a talented and diverse team of almost a hundred members, including both current and former members, from almost fifty Max Planck Institutes (MPIs) who have roots in or strong ties to the region. Realizing that the long-term effects of the earthquakes will be felt most acutely by the younger generation in the affected region, the members of the Working Group are dedicated to creating a sustainable, long-term project that will keep them in close contact with the youth.
This project aims to create an online mentoring program that connects MPG staff with bachelor and master students who have been impacted by the earthquake in the region. It welcomes all MPG staff (scientific and managerial/administrative) and alumni who are willing to contribute to this project. This online mentoring program will provide both individual and group mentoring sessions. One-to-one sessions will continue at least for six months once the mentor-mentee meetings start. The project itself is funded until the end of 2024, which might then be extended to offer support to new mentees. The main objectives of the program are to equip students with the knowledge and skills that are needed for the successful completion of their degrees and to provide guidance for their future careers. Through this program, students will have the opportunity to develop essential skills, such as preparing applications for postgraduate degrees, internships, and job opportunities. The project also aims to equip MPI volunteers with soft skills and enhance the collaborative work experience that the employees need to succeed in their roles. We expect around one hundred students and mentors to participate in this transformative mentoring program.
In Turkey alone, the earthquakes caused damage to more than 20,000 school buildings, highlighting the far-reaching impact of this disaster on the future of education and science. The program will not only provide academic assistance in certain subjects but also offer career advice and mentoring tailored to the individual needs of the mentees. We aim to help these young people realize their full potential and become successful researchers and associates despite the challenges they have faced due to the earthquakes.