Each year, the Max Planck Foundation (MPF) brings together leading scientists, supporters, and patrons for its annual Science Evening, celebrating fundamental research and its real-world relevance.
At this year’s event, Prof. Dr. Ferenc Krausz – Nobel Laureate in Physics 2023 – delivered a keynote on “How Physics Can Help Revolutionize Medicine.” Beyond his scientific work, he also presented the mission of our organization, Science4People e.V. (S4P), which he founded after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. S4P is dedicated to providing children and young people in crisis situations – especially in Ukraine – with access to reliable education and future prospects.
That evening, S4P presented its work at an information stand, hosted by Nina Beier and Khrystyna Mekhonoshyna, two of our active members, who explained our work in detail. Visitors were able to gain a comprehensive understanding of our activities: photographs of the children and projects offered a personal perspective on our educational initiatives, a brochure provided detailed information about our organization and ongoing programs, and a short film vividly illustrated the impact of our work. These materials attracted considerable interest and encouraged guests to engage with our mission.
Building on this engagement, Prof. Dr. Reinhard Pöllath, the founder of the Max Planck Foundation, emphasized that “you are doing incredibly important work,” underlining the value of our educational commitment. This enthusiasm was captured in a joint photograph featuring Prof. Dr. Reinhard Pöllath and esteemed supporter and Board of Trustees member Sabine Schaefer, holding our brochures together with Prof. Dr. Ferenc Krausz and Prof. Dr. Karoline Schäffner.
Another guest, Christine Fuchs-Khakhar, shared her thoughts on our work in Ukraine: “Having worked as a teacher […] for many years, I know how valuable such initiatives are. With this project […], international connections, understanding of different life situations, and an interest in science can be fostered among young people.”
We sincerely thank all guests for their interest and the valuable conversations.
We are especially grateful to the MPF for the opportunity to participate in this event, and to Swetlana Krez for her valuable support and guidance.
We also thank the team at the Max Planck Institute for Physics for hosting us and providing technical support.
The evening helped raise awareness of our educational initiatives and connect with new supporters for children and young people.
Pictures: Max-Planck-Förderstiftung/Anna Dimperl & Science4People/Thorsten Naeser