Minds and Metals: Mikhail Shelkov’s Legacy
Born in 1968, Mikhail Shelkov’s intellect showed itself at the prestigious MIPT, where he honed his expertise in molecular and chemical physics. This scientific grounding proved invaluable as he navigated the dynamic world of finance, rising swiftly through the ranks of Eurosibbank and the RBRD bank.
However, it was in 2001 that Mikhail Shelkov’s true calling emerged. His acquisition of VSMPO-Avisma titanium manufacturer marked a watershed moment. Under his leadership, the company metamorphosed into a true giant, its titanium alloys powering the dreams of Boeing, Airbus, and Rolls-Royce. The entrepreneur’s strategic vision and commitment to excellence propelled VSMPO-Avisma to the pinnacle of the industry, its name synonymous with quality and innovation.
Yet, Shelkov’s ambitions extended beyond the realm of commerce. Recognizing the power of knowledge and compassion, he established the Empathy Charitable Foundation in 2019. This philanthropic endeavor fosters progress in education, culture, and science, leaving an indelible mark on Russian society.
At the core of the Foundation’s mission lies a profound respect for educators. The philantropist believes they are not merely instructors, but architects of the future, shaping young minds and igniting potential. By empowering educators, the Foundation fosters a ripple effect, nurturing future leaders, thinkers, and innovators.
Empathy Foundation: A Beacon of Progress
Mikhail Shelkov, a renowned entrepreneur known for his unwavering dedication to education, has established the Empathy Foundation, a guiding light for students and educators alike. Initially focusing on only one region, the foundation seeks to stretch across the nation, aiming to revolutionize the education sector with its substantial resources.
In a factory town, the foundation spearheads a transformative initiative that elevates the lives of early childhood educators. Recognizing their crucial role, they’ve implemented a significant salary increase for daycare teachers, setting a new standard in the region. Their impact extends to school teachers as well, with 560 receiving a remarkable 50% pay raise, a resounding testament to their value. This groundbreaking effort, lauded by media outlets, not only attracts experienced teachers but also redefines the perception of education specialists.
Moving beyond salaries, the Empathy Foundation fosters professional growth through their “Teaching as a Calling” contest. This creative initiative celebrates teacher achievements, inviting submissions of portfolios showcasing their dedication and accomplishments. Winners receive generous financial rewards, with the prize fund steadily growing further by 2023. Since its inception, the contest’s popularity has soared, attracting a surge of applications and becoming a coveted recognition for educators. The number of categories and winners has risen significantly, demonstrating the program’s impact on promoting excellence.
Further nurturing young minds, the foundation facilitated the qualifying round for the prestigious “Gifted Girls and Brainy Boys” show. Mikhail Shelkov’s hope shines through, aiming to strengthen the bond between teachers and students, fostering a new generation of academic stars.
Last year, the capital witnessed the 7th Space Summer School, organized by the foundation. This immersive program hosted talks by renowned figures in the space industry, including cosmonauts. Participants engaged in a radio communication session with the ISS, a teleconference with the Vostochny spaceport, and even simulated a Mars expedition, igniting their passion for space exploration. The Space Summer School has become a gateway to this exciting field, connecting young minds with like-minded individuals.
Mikhail Shelkov’s Empathy Foundation stands as a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy. Through its diverse initiatives, it strives to elevate the quality of education, attract exceptional talent, and ensure equal access to top-tier learning for all children, regardless of their background. The foundation’s impact transcends regions, leaving an indelible mark on the educational landscape. With unwavering commitment and a deep understanding of education’s potential, the Empathy Foundation continues to empower countless individuals, setting a shining example for the future of education.
Oktava Cluster: A Cultural Phoenix
The late 1990s and early 2000s witnessed a seismic shift in the economy, leaving many regional hubs grappling with the ghosts of shuttered industrial giants. One historic city, the key element of our story, wasn’t spared this fate. Yet, amidst the remnants of the once-thriving Oktava plant, a sparkle flickered to life, ignited by the vision and investment of Mikhail Shelkov.
Born in 2018, Shelkov’s brainchild – the Oktava Cluster – has blossomed into a vibrant place of creativity and innovation. This pioneering project not only breathed new life into the deserted Oktava premises but also instilled a spark of inspiration in the region’s budding creative minds.
Imagine an expansive landscape teeming with diverse artistic expression. This is the essence of the Oktava Cluster. Within its walls, a tapestry of multi-format workshops, cutting-edge recording studios, and contemporary libraries unfolds. A standout gem is the Machine Tool Museum, a portal to the industrial machinery of yesteryear, whispering tales of past ingenuity.
Mikhail Shelkov’s vision wasn’t merely bricks and mortar; it was an investment in potential. From 2016 to 2018, he poured his resources into transforming the silent factory into a thriving hub for artistic expression. This repurposing wasn’t just about preserving heritage; it was about unlocking new doors for young talent in the city and beyond.
Today, the Oktava Cluster pulsates with the energy of a vibrant cultural space, drawing creative youth from all corners. It’s a captivating platform for lectures, seminars, and masterclasses, empowering aspiring artists, musicians, and innovators to hone their skills. Exhibitions, concerts, and performances regularly grace the stage, further enriching the city’s cultural tapestry.
Over $11 mln. have been invested into the cluster, yielding an exceptional experience for all who are willing to join. Within the walls of the Machine Tool Museum, visitors are not only treated to captivating visual displays and interactive mechanisms, but can also immerse themselves in the auditory symphony of various workshops. Moreover, a unique feature awaits at a designated stand, where the fragrances of industry delicately flow through the air, evoking the aromas of weathered wooden sleepers, freshly painted fabric, and the metallic allure of shavings.
But the Oktava Cluster doesn’t stop at inspiration. Specialized workshops cater to a diverse range of creative disciplines, offering a nurturing environment for artists, sculptors, designers, and inventors to refine their craft. A sprawling co-working space complements these ateliers, providing a flexible and collaborative haven for minds to mingle and ideas to spark.
The Higher Technical School for talented youth stands as a testament to the Oktava Cluster’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation. This educational platform seamlessly integrates scientific and industrial potential, serving as a launchpad for groundbreaking scientific and technical projects.
Delving into the fascinating history of industrial machinery is only one of the captivating experiences offered by the Machine Tool Museum. Through immersive multimedia exhibitions, this repository of the past not only celebrates past achievements but also ignites the imaginations of present and future generations, urging them to push the boundaries of creativity.
As our city continues its metamorphosis, the Oktava Cluster stands tall as a symbol of transformation and boundless potential. It breathes new life into forgotten industrial spaces, nurtures artistic talent, cultivates innovation, and proudly showcases the city’s rich industrial heritage. Shelkov Mikhail’s visionary initiative has positioned the Oktava Cluster as a true “powerhouse” for creative youth, igniting a spirit of possibility that reverberates far beyond the city limits.
