ABOUT US
Behind R1SE is a dedicated team of creative minds who share one thing in common: a belief in the power of community. Our team consists of people from diverse backgrounds—from former CEOs, artists, and volunteers to students and management consultants. Together, we are working to create a platform that celebrates diversity and opens up new perspectives. With passion, creativity, and strong cohesion, we are committed to initiating sustainable change in our society. At R1SE, every voice, every idea, and every action counts—because only together can we grow.
HISTORY
Rap for Refugees was launched in 2017 as a non-profit project with the aim of giving young people a voice through hip-hop culture and values. What began as a charity festival quickly developed into an intercultural platform for workshops, events, and personal development. Over the years, the project has reached hundreds of young people and given them opportunities to discover and develop their talents in rap, beatboxing, graffiti, and dance.
The approach of “Rap for Refugees” is clear: art and culture serve as a bridge between different worlds. It's about breaking down barriers, telling stories, and empowering young people – regardless of their background or situation. The focus is on interactive workshops that encourage creative expression, as well as festivals where the results of this work are presented.
The success story of Rap for Refugees laid the foundation for R1SE, a new chapter in the organization's history. R1SE takes the original idea further: it is no longer just about artistic expression, but also about mentoring, networking, and sustainable educational opportunities. However, the goal remains the same: to offer young people in difficult life situations new perspectives and to create a space where they can be heard.
THE BOARD
ATA ANAT
1 st Chairman of the Board
Ata Anat learned early on what it means to grow up between different cultures. Born in Turkey and arriving in Germany at the age of seven, he understands the challenges faced by many young people in similar situations. These experiences continue to shape his commitment to this day.
Ata is a practical person: he has been working as a youth soccer coach since the age of 13, where he learned how much passion and discipline can achieve in young people. Later, he discovered the unifying power of hip-hop—a culture that is not only music to him, but also a universal language.
With “Rap for Refugees,” Ata created a space where young people can not only be creative, but also experience self-confidence and community. His strength lies in his ability to connect people – from artists and coaches to partner organizations. For him, one thing is clear: everyone has the potential to achieve great things – you just need the right support and a platform that offers room for development.
ESRA CESUR
2 nd Chairwoman of the Board
PAULA LANG
3 rd Chairwoman of the Board
MICHEL SCHRÖDER
4 th Chairman of the Board
GET INVOLVED
We are always happy to welcome new faces to our team! Whether you already have experience or are simply curious, there are many areas where you can get involved with us. We work together to create opportunities for young people, and every contribution counts.
If you would like to get to know us or get started right away, feel free to come to our weekly co-working meeting:
📅 Every Thursday, 4–8 p.m.
📍 Rutschbahn 33
You can just drop by, talk to us, and see where you can get involved.
Areas of Responsibility
1. Project Work
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Sports & exercise:
Become a trainer, contribute your own sports projects, or support existing programs.
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Art & culture:
Are you artistically or creatively active? Whether it's workshops, mentoring, or new ideas—we welcome your input.
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Vocational training:
Help young people find their way and get started in their careers—whether through counseling, workshops, or direct support.
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Promoting engagement:
Support other projects, develop new ideas, and help create a motivating atmosphere.
2. Organization & Administration
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Fundraising & Administration:
Support us in financing our projects—whether by maintaining our funding pool, submitting applications, or performing administrative tasks.
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Accounting:
If numbers are your strength, you can help us keep track of our finances and improve our structures.
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Board & Strategy:
Want to help shape the future? As a board member, you can work on the strategic direction of the association or develop workshops for the team.
3. Communication & Public Relations
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Social media & communication:
If you enjoy being creative, you can support us in designing posts, press relations, social media, and much more.
4. Consultin & Support
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Psychological counseling:
Contribute your expertise to directly support young people or professionally accompany our team.
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Volunteer promotion:
Accompany other volunteers, develop new ideas, and help create a motivating atmosphere.
How can you get started?
Simply contact us by phone/WhatsApp (0176-36298594), email (volunteering@r1se.org), or via our Instagram channel (r1se_projects). You can be sure that we will get back to you very quickly.
