800+
Sparks Graduates
In 2009, Sema Başol set out with a vision: to empower young women in Türkiye to lead. With the support of a circle of women who believed in her, the first Sparks group was born. That spark became a ripple—proving that when women lift each other up, change multiplies.
At TWI, leadership isn’t taught as theory—it’s built through practice.
Two models. Two contexts. One mission: to empower young women with the confidence, skills, and networks to spark change.
Founded by Sema Başol, Değişim Liderleri Derneği (Change Leaders Association, DLD) is a Türkiye-based nonprofit committed to cultivating the next generation of women leaders.
Its signature Sparks Program in Türkiye is the country’s only eight-month experiential leadership journey for university women—designed to help participants discover their leadership identities, build confidence through practice, and lead projects that create tangible social change.
Through SPARKS-Türkiye, young women turn uncertainty into agency, and purpose into action.
Equipping young women with the skills, confidence, and vision to lead.
Turning knowledge into action through real-world projects and experiential growth.
Creating lasting impact as each empowered woman uplifts families, communities, and societies.
In 2022, TWI brought the ripple across the ocean and launched SPARKS-USA, designed for young women with international backgrounds who are building their lives and careers in the U.S.
Young women often face challenges of confidence, visibility, and belonging in a new culture. SPARKS-USA creates a supportive space where they can grow, connect, and lead.
