Waldemar Bonsels-Stiftung

The Waldemar Bonsels Foundation is a non-profit foundation based in Munich, founded in 1977 by Rose-Marie Bonsels. It is dedicated to the preservation and critical scholarly examination of the literary legacy of Waldemar Bonsels (1880–1952), the creator of "Maya the Bee," and supports projects in the three areas of reading, knowledge, and art. Its tasks include the digitization and public accessibility of the literary and graphic estate, the support of academic conferences and publications, as well as the promotion of innovative educational, cultural, and artistic initiatives for children, adolescents, teachers, and non-profit organizations.

The Waldemar Bonsels Foundation is committed to the holistic education of young people by equally promoting the joy of reading, scientific curiosity, and artistic creativity. It understands education as an interplay between reason and heartfelt development and aims to inspire children and adolescents to discover knowledge, develop empathy, and unfold their creative abilities. Under the motto "Reading – Knowledge – Art," the foundation supports forward-looking projects that strengthen democratic action, cultural diversity, and social participation.

The funding programs of the Waldemar Bonsels Foundation are primarily aimed at non-profit organizations (associations, non-profit limited liability companies, educational institutions) and freelance artists who implement non-commercial, charitable projects. The focus is also on educational stakeholders, schools and teachers, as well as children and young people throughout Germany. Supported are reading promotion initiatives, cultural education workshops, literary research projects, and participatory art projects that contribute to democratic education and intercultural understanding.