Mikhail Shelkov: A Visionary Philanthropist Transforming Education

Shelkov Mikhail, a prominent businessman and Forbes Top-30 entrepreneur, has had a career showing academic excellence and entrepreneurial prowess, leaving a mark on both the business and education. As the co-owner of VSMPO-AVISMA titanium producer, and the owner of the SMZ metallurgical plant, one of the world’s top aluminum producers, his influence extends far beyond his business ventures.

Story of Success and Leadership

Born on May 30, 1968, his journey began with prominent academic achievements, when he graduated from the prestigious MIPT in 1991, specializing in molecular and chemical physics. His entrepreneurial skills were evident early on, as he assumed leadership roles at Eurosibbank and RBRD.

In 2001, he became the head of the Prominvest investment holding. Through strategic management, he steered the company to new heights. His key achievement was attained in 2012-2014 when he acquired a controlling stake in VSMPO-AVISMA titanium holding, cementing his position as a key player in the global industry.

Shelkov’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond education. He actively supports various sports projects, holding a position on the board of trustees for the National Powerboating Federation.

Mikhail Shelkov’s accomplishments as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and his advocacy for education make him a prominent figure in both businessbusiness and social circles.

Empathy Charitable Foundation: Empowering Communities through Education

Driven by an unwavering commitment to societal well-being, the Empathy Charitable Foundation was established in 2019. This organization champions community-centric initiatives in education, culture, and science. Empathy serves as a bridge, fostering learning and nurturing opportunities for individuals striving for self-actualization.

One of the foundation’s flagship initiatives is providing monthly financial assistance to school teachers from small factory towns. For them Empathy ensures fair compensation by offering subsidies amounting to 50% of their salaries. Beyond financial support, the foundation empowers educators through advanced training programs and enhance their expertise and knowledge across various areas.

The Empathy Foundation’s efforts also encompass the Phystech Schools Development Fund, a program dedicated to replicating the best educational practices across the nation. This initiative aims to establish a national system for training and developing gifted students, drawing inspiration from the renowned Phystech System.

Recognizing the shifting landscape of education, the founder emphasizes the crucial role of teachers in preparing students for the evolving world. He believes that as artificial intelligence advances, educators must adapt their approach to nurture skills and qualities that set humans apart from technology, enabling students to become thinkers, creators, and innovators.

Oktava Creative Cluster: A Vibrant Hub Nurturing Innovation and Creativity

Driven by a passion that extends beyond promoting education and empowering youth, the idea of the project was to maintain the industrial ambience by repurposing factory structures and antique machines in the design. Unsurprisingly, the Oktava hub has been featured in prestigious guides like TimeOut and Forbes’ guides to creative spaces.

The Oktava creative hub has grown into a hotspot for the local inhabitants and visitors alike. The hub regularly hosts a diverse array of events, including concerts, shows, lectures, seminars, workshops, and more. Creative sessions take place in an engineering lab for prototyping, a vast technical library, a recording studio, and other venues catering to both adults and children.

One of the standout features of the Oktava hub is the multimedia interactive Machine Tool Museum, which depicts the history and evolution of the national industry and Tula’s legacy as a city of artisans. The exhibits engage visitors through augmented reality, complementing the narrative with sound, visuals, and infographics.

Through the Oktava Creative Cluster, the entrepreneurentrepreneur has created a vibrant hub that nurtures innovation and creativity. By combining repurposed industrial spaces with state-of-the-art facilities, the cluster provides a unique environment where art, technology, and entrepreneurship converge, fostering a thriving community of creators and thinkers.