SPECIAL SECTION:
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ALEV WIELAND
THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF ALEV COSMETICS FOUNDER
COMMUNITY STAR SİNEM VATANARTIRAN
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH CEYLAN ÇARHOĞLU
AN EMMY AWARD-WINNING TURKISH DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKER
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The Turkish Business Directory is the ultimate premier publication for our thriving Turkish community. In the upcoming 2024-2025 edition, we are taking it to the next level.
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CULTIVATING CONNECTIONS: UNITING THE TURKISH COMMUNITY IN THE HEART OF DC
Connect with like-minded professionals, share ideas, and discover new opportunities to help each other succeed.
Our group offers:
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Ready to elevate your business network? Click the link to join our group: https://shorturl.at/kdhDG
Upon joining, introduce yourself to the group and share your LinkedIn page if you have one. Make sure your full name is displayed in your profile. Together, we can achieve greater success!
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TurkNetwork magazine is the only Turkish magazine published monthly in the USA. https://shorturl.at/3Wj78
VOLUME 1, NO 10, AUG 2024
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EDITORIAL
FOUNDER / PUBLISHER
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Sitki Kazanci
MANAGING EDITOR
Elizabeth Adams
EDITORS
Sara Jensen
David N. Smith
Mary McHugh
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
In Alphabetical Order by Last Name
Ugur Akinci
Mehmet Ali Munir
Tara Alisbah
Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz
Oya Bain
Yasar Daglar
Erol Güler
Nil Güler
Burcin Ogrenir
Melisa Gulsun Ozmen
Serra Karacam
Sheilah Kaufman
Ali Kılıçlıoğlu
Oguz Konar
Sibel Kulaksiz
Dilek Livaneli
Olivia Manzagol
Kivanc Oguz
Güçlü Özenci
Suheyla Tayla
Muhammed Üzüm
Kitty Waldorf
PHOTO AND VIDEO DIRECTOR
Ekrem Baskan
DESIGN / PRODUCTION
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PRODUCTION MANAGER
Jennifer T. Gordon
SALES / MARKETING
Advertising Department (703) 439-0557
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TurkNetwork Magazine, published monthly by the Creative Edge, 1751 Pinnacle Drive, Suite 600, McLean, VA 22102.
Creative Edge and TurkNetwork Magazine, are not responsible for advertisement content and contributors' articles.
© 2024 by Creative Edge. All rights reserved.
WWelcome to this issue, focusing on the captivating world of beauty, hair salons, and cosmetics. We are particularly excited to highlight the remarkable talent of Turkish hairdressers in the Washington, DC, area. These gifted professionals have built an impressive reputation locally and have had the honor of serving as hairdressers at the White House over the years.
This issue is brimming with valuable content on hair and skincare. Our goal is to provide you with the latest trends, expert advice, and product recommendations to help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant hair and glowing skin. Whether you are seeking tips for everyday care or trying something new, our articles are designed to inspire and guide you.
Turkish hairdressers are known for their meticulous attention to detail and innovative techniques. Their contributions to the beauty industry in Washington, DC, are significant. They seamlessly blend traditional methods with modern trends to create stunning results. We celebrate their artistry and dedication in this issue, showcasing why they are trusted by many, including some of the country's most prominent figures.
Discover the meticulous artistry and innovative techniques of Turkish hairdressers, trusted by prominent figures and the White House alike.
This issue explores beauty, hair, and skincare and delves into the rich cultural heritage and professional expertise that Turkish hairdressers bring to the industry. Their stories and achievements are a testament to their hard work and creativity, and we are proud to share them with you.
Next month, we are thrilled to announce a special section focused on Turkish law firms and lawyers. This upcoming feature will provide comprehensive lists and insights into the legal expertise available within the Turkish community. Whether you need legal advice or are simply interested in learning more about the field, our next issue will serve as an invaluable resource.
We are committed to bringing you high-quality articles and features that inform and inspire. Your feedback and support are essential to us as we continue to explore and celebrate our community's diverse talents and contributions. We hope you enjoy this issue and find the content engaging and valuable.
Happy reading, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the next issue!
Warm regards,
SITKI KAZANCI
Event Facilitates New Connections among Turkish Business Community
TurkNetwork recently hosted an exclusive business networking event at The Graham Georgetown Rooftop in Washington, DC. The members-only gathering included 25 distinguished business professionals from various industries.
The event provided an excellent platform for members to meet new colleagues and establish valuable connections. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions about their businesses, sharing insights and exploring potential collaborations. The ambiance of The Graham Georgetown Rooftop added to the evening’s success, creating a conducive environment for networking and professional growth.
Participants appreciated connecting with fellow businesspeople in a relaxed yet professional setting. The event fostered new relationships and strengthened the bonds within the TurkNetwork community, highlighting the importance of such gatherings in promoting business growth and cooperation.
TurkNetwork continues to support its members by organizing events that facilitate networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among the Turkish business community in the United States.
Ambassador Sedat Önal presented his credentials to President Joe Biden at the White House on June 17, 2024. During the ceremony, the ambassador was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Figen Önal.
Turkish right-back Muldur’s stunning strike against Georgia has been voted Goal of the Tournament by fans for EURO 2024.
Mert Muldur’s remarkable volley in Türkiye’s 3-1 victory over Georgia during the group stage has been chosen by fans as the Goal of the UEFA EURO 2024. UEFA announced the win, noting that the goal topped the fans’ vote on EURO2024.com and Ant Forest. In the same match, Arda Guler and Kerem Akturkoglu also scored for Türkiye.
Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal’s goal against France ranked second, while Arda Guler’s long-range effort against Georgia took third place.
Stay connected at 30,000 feet! Free and unlimited Wi-Fi across our entire fleet by the end of 2025.
Turkish Airlines, Türkiye’s national carrier, announced plans to provide unlimited, free Wi-Fi service to all passengers across its fleet within the next two years.
This initiative follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Türkiye’s state-owned satellite company Türksat and the airline’s subsidiary TCI Aircraft Interiors at the Farnborough Airshow in the UK.
“In partnership with TCI Aircraft Interiors and Türksat, we will bring free and unlimited Wi-Fi to our entire fleet by the end of 2025. We’re integrating the latest in-flight connectivity tech to keep you online,” Turkish Airlines shared on X.
The project, set to begin at the end of this year and complete in two years, aims to enhance existing aircraft with advanced in-flight connectivity technologies and equip new planes with more efficient systems. This will enable the airline to offer uninterrupted and faster IFC service to all passengers free of charge.
Additionally, Turkish Airlines unveiled its new business class suite at a major aviation event near London, showcasing its commitment to enhancing passenger experience. The airline, which carried 40.6 million passengers in the first half of 2024, operates 458 aircraft and plans to nearly double its fleet by 2033.
Since its founding in 2017, NaraXR has been at the forefront of technological innovation, focusing on the transformative potential of virtual reality (VR) and 5G-supported solutions. NaraXR aims to revolutionize education with cutting-edge technologies, serving Turkish and international markets and enhancing learning experiences through the speed and capabilities of 5G networks and immersive VR environments.
KEY PROJECTS:
1. Türkiye’s First Local Industrial 5G Use Case: In collaboration with Türk Telekom, i2i Systems, and IQ Vision, NaraXR developed a groundbreaking project at OSTIM Technopark Prota, showcasing local technology initiatives with a VR command control application for drones.
improving accessibility and interaction.
5. Turkcell 5G AR Tourism: Developed for Istanbul Airport, this project enriches the tourism experience with augmented reality content delivered via 5G.
The Turkish American Association in Northern California (TAAC) is hosting the first San Francisco Turkish Festival on Saturday, September 28th, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. This vibrant festival brings the sights, sounds, and flavors of Türkiye to the Bay Area. Attendees can immerse themselves in Turkish traditions, artistry, and hospitality, along with those of Turkic countries.
Experience the tantalizing aromas of Turkish cuisine, traditional music, and captivating folk dances. Enjoy the beats of Turkish music and the graceful movements of dancers in colorful attire. The scent of freshly brewed Turkish coffee and street food will transport you to Istanbul’s bustling bazaars and cafes.
Join this cultural celebration to foster understanding, unity, and friendship. For more information, visit turkfestsf.org.
into new markets and maintain ing leadership in technological innovation. Priorities include:
◗ Innovation: Creating groundbreaking solutions.
◗ Quality: Ensuring excellence in all products and services.
◗ Education: Transforming
NaraXR stands at the intersection of technology and education, transforming learning and interaction. With innovative projects and a clear vision, NaraXR is poised to lead the next wave of technological advancements worldwide.
The distinctive flavors of Uyghur cuisine are coming to Crystal City later this year. Dolan Uyghur, known for its unique blend of Turkish and Chinese influences, is planning to open its fourth DC-area location in November, according to a representative of the restaurant.
The new restaurant will be situated at the Quimby on 23rd, an apartment building at 320 23rd Street S.
In addition to its traditional menu, Dolan Uyghur will introduce a variety of Mediterranean dishes at the Crystal City location to appeal to a broader clientele.
“This expansion promises to bring the rich flavors and unique dining experience of Uyghur cuisine, enhanced by various Mediterranean influences, to local customers,” said restaurant owner Hamid Kerim.
DC Social organized a lively Summer Happy Hour on July 16 at ala Restaurant in Washington, DC. The event brought together a diverse group of professionals, community members, and friends for an evening of networking, relaxation, and fun.
Held at the stylish ala restaurant, known for its vibrant ambiance and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, the event featured a delightful array of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The venue’s chic setting provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and new connections.
On Sunday, September 28, 2024, at 8:00 pm, the Silver Spring Blackbox Theatre will host an enchanting night of music presented by the RAD Arts Foundation. The event will feature the incredible talents of Imamyar Hasnov on Kamancheh and Amir Bayat on piano.
Attendees can immerse themselves in the rich musical traditions of Azerbaijan and experience a night to remember. This unique opportunity to enjoy a captivating performance by these amazing musicians promises to be an unforgettable evening.
The Turkish American Steering Committee Board hosted a special luncheon and a public meeting with the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) Speaker, Numan Kurtulmus, at the Diyanet Center of America (DCA) in Lanham, MD. Also present were TBMM Judiciary Commission leader Professor Cuneyt Yuksel, Member of the Parliament (MP) from Izmir and former Minister of Youth and Sports Mehmet Kasapoglu, MP from Yalova, Ahmet Buyukgumus and Turkish Ambassador to Washington Sedat Onal. There were informative exchanges between the Turkish dignitaries and TASC board members on the political and cultural issues of the Turkish diaspora and perspectives from Türkiye
At the public meeting that followed the luncheon at the DCA Conference Center, Ambassador Sedat Onal, TASC President Seyit Sahin Esq, and DCA Chairman Associate Professor Fatih Kanca welcomed the Speaker. Speaker Kurtulmus, in his speech, stressed the increasing importance of Türkiye in NATO and also touched on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Later, in his interview with the Washington Post, Speaker Kurtulmus stressed the Gaza war victims need to receive equal attention from NATO as those of the Ukrainian war.
“It is very clearly hypocrisy, a double standard,” Numan Kurtulmus, speaker of the Turkish parliament, told Mr. Tharoor in an interview Monday in Washington. “It is a kind of racism because if you don’t accept Palestinian victims as equal to the Ukrainian victims, it means you want to create a kind of hierarchy within humanity. It is unacceptable" (Ishaan Tharoor, W.Post, To Day's Worldview, July 7, 2024).
The Turkish dignitaries were in Washington to attend NATO's 75th Anniversary celebration. The US delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly hosted the summit, which brought together parliamentary leaders from the 32 NATO members and Ukraine, including 23 parliament speakers. As the military alliance commemorates its 75th anniversary, the meeting showcased the importance of NATO's parliamentary dimension and highlighted allied parliaments' views on critical priorities.
By Oya Bain
Timur Ender
Candidate for Portland (OR)
City Council
No Primary / General Election: November 5, 2024
enderineastportland@gmail.com https://www.ender4eastportland.com
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Zeyna Pruzhanovsky
Candidate for Chandler (AZ)
Unified School District
Governing Board
General Election: November 5, 2024 zeyna.inc@gmail.com www.zeynaforchandler.com
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Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş emphasized the importance of strengthening relations with the US through businesspeople, noting the $38 billion trade volume between the two countries.
Speaking at a program organized by the Anatolian Lions Businessmen Association (ASKON-USA) at Türkiye’s Washington Embassy, Kurtulmuş expressed his satisfaction in meeting Turkish businesspeople and civil society representatives in the US and thanked ASKON for the event.
Kurtulmuş highlighted the productive meetings in Washington and mentioned that he would present Türkiye’s views at NATO’s 75th-anniversary summit of parliamentary speakers, aiming to discuss new peace missions.
He stressed that despite regional conflicts and tensions, Türkiye has maintained economic and political stability. Kurtulmuş noted that Türkiye’s strategic position offers significant opportunities and that the country will continue to advocate for its national interests and build new alliances on the international stage.
In an impressive feat, 13-year-old Turkish chess Grandmaster Yağız Kaan Erdoğmuş defeated chess legend Magnus Carlsen in a blitz match, completing the game in just 41.2 seconds, as reported by Turkish media on July 7.
The match, which took place in an online blitz tournament, showcased the rapid pace of blitz matches, which are significantly faster than standard chess games.
Erdoğmuş, who earned the Grandmaster title at the age of 12 years, 9 months, and 29 days, is currently the youngest active Grandmaster according to the International Chess Federation (FIDE) ratings. This achievement makes him the fourth youngest chess player ever to receive the prestigious title awarded by FIDE.
Magnus Carlsen, a five-time classical chess world champion, is widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. His defeat by the young Turkish prodigy highlights Erdoğmuş’s remarkable talent and potential in the world of chess.
With Erdoğmuş’s achievement, the number of Grandmasters in Türkiye has now increased to 16, reflecting the country’s growing presence in the international chess community.
Champions Sport Academy’s recreational program is designed to teach kids K-6 the fundamentals of soccer. Participants will be placed in small groups and work with assigned assistant coaches. They will develop various skills, including ball control, passing, and understanding the rules and regulations, all while enjoying fun, gametype activities.
The program will be held at two locations: Lanham, MD, and Ellicott City, MD. For more details and to register your kids, please visit the website.
In July, the Turkish American Community and allies celebrated two important dates: July 24 marks the 101st Anniversary of the Lausanne Treaty, which led to the establishment of the Turkish Republic, and July 20 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Turkish Peace Operation in Cyprus. Both anniversaries underline the strength of the Turkish Republic and the continuing peace for the Turkish Cypriots, respectively. / By
Oya Bain
LAZZONI is renowned for its high-end modern furniture, crafted with top-quality materials and masterful manufacturing. Whether custom-made or handcrafted, each piece showcases outstanding design and superior craftsmanship. With 15 stores across the US and plans to expand to 35 soon, LAZZONI recently celebrated the delivery of its 500th container to America.
We are proud to see a successful Turkish company thriving in the US market. I was pleased to meet Efe Kababulut, LAZZONI’s Vice Chairman and CMO, during his visit to Washington for the SelectUSA meeting. He shared insights into the company’s talent management strategy: “Our goal is to discover talented young individuals and help them fully realize their potential. We believe we can teach them a lot, and they can teach us a lot with this approach. Of course, we want to grow globally and make our name a global giant, but we think it is not a long-term choice to do this with people who do not know our products or brand history. Since the first day we were founded, we have also not given up the importance we attach to craftsmanship and quality in this field.”
This program lets employees stay up-to-date with industry trends and technologies, develop leadership skills, and embrace LAZZONI’s innovative culture. Kababulut emphasizes the importance of having a constantly developing team.
LAZZONI is seeking college graduates to join its training program and work at US stores. If you are interested in this opportunity, make an application through this link; https://bit.ly/3Y9AtJz / By Sitki Kazanci
As Türkiye prepares for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the nation reflects on its illustrious Olympic legacy, marked by an impressive 104 medals. With 102 athletes set to compete in 18 disciplines, Türkiye aims to further enhance its storied record.
Türkiye’s Olympic journey began in 1908 when gymnast Aleko Mulos represented the then-Ottoman Empire at the London Games. Over the years, Turkish athletes have secured 41 gold, 27 silver, and 36 bronze medals across nine sports. Wrestling leads as the dominant discipline, contributing 66 medals, followed by weightlifting with 11. Other notable sports include taekwondo, boxing, karate, athletics, judo, archery, and gymnastics.
Memorable Milestones
• 1960 Rome Olympics: Türkiye’s most successful games in terms of gold medals, with a total of seven golds and two silvers from 55 athletes.
• 2020 Tokyo Olympics: Türkiye achieved its highest overall medal count, securing 13 medals (two gold, two silver, nine bronze) with a team of 108 athletes. Karate, making its Olympic debut, contributed four medals.
Road to Paris
This summer, 102 Turkish athletes will compete in Paris from July 26 to August 11. Despite a slightly smaller delegation compared to recent games, the team is rich with talent and potential. For the second consecutive Olympics, Turkish women outnumber men, with 54 female and 48 male athletes. The Women’s National Volleyball Team, known for their remarkable performances, will compete for the third time in Olym pic history, aiming to surpass their achievements in London 2012 and Tokyo 2020.
Register today for a noncredit continuing education Turkish language class at Howard Community College. You will receive the same instruction as credit students but will not receive a grade or transcript. Enhance your skills, grow your career, and excel in your professional development by learning a new language.
Our Intensive Language Courses improve your communication skills in listening, speaking, writing, and reading over a 15-week semester. You will engage in regular homework, assessments, and a lab component, with a pass/fail grading system.
Classes require using the online course delivery system Canvas for access to materials, assignments, and tests. For online courses, the lab component is delivered via online conferencing.
Explore the world through language study. Register now! For more information, visit Howard Community College. Learn how to register: Registration Guide.
The Inflation Reduction Act represents a beacon of hope, tackling economic and environmental challenges while promoting equity and sustainability.
By Olivia Manzagol
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law by President Joe Biden, is a significant piece of legislation that addresses several pressing issues in the United States. From reducing inflation to tackling climate change, the IRA has become a cornerstone of Biden's policy agenda. Due to imports, exports, and investments, it has gained widespread popularity globally.
The IRA is a comprehensive bill to address multiple economic and environmental challenges. Implementing measures to control prices and stabilize the economy, the IRA aims to ease the financial burden on American families. The act also allocates significant funding to promote clean energy technologies, reduce carbon emissions, and combat climate change. It includes provisions to lower prescription drug costs and expand access to affordable healthcare. To fund these initiatives, the IRA introduces tax reforms that target high-income earners and corporations.
The IRA invests heavily in renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and electric vehicles for the energy and climate
provisions. It also supports energy-efficient home improvements and green infrastructure projects. These measures aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a sustainable future. The investments and tax credits in clean energy and infrastructure are expected to create millions of jobs and stimulate economic growth. This has garnered support from environmental advocates and those concerned with economic development.
The IRA is a landmark piece of legislation that aims to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing the United States today. As the nation moves forward, the IRA represents not just a critical step, but a beacon of hope toward a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future. This is a great time to pay attention and utilize this recent act, if you have any interest in sustainable finance, clean energy technologies, social impact and equality. ■
Remember the moment someone believed in you? At Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF), we cherish the belief that educational opportunities can change lives, empowering students like Korkmaz Can and Barış to achieve their dreams and contribute to their communities.
By Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz, PhD
Remember the moment someone believed in you? That one person who saw your potential and allowed you to continue your education, get that internship, or land that interview? At Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF), we cherish the belief that educational opportunities can change lives. This is why Scholarship Funds are one of the most important philanthropic vehicles we utilize with our donors. Under our umbrella, there are many scholarships, ranging from endowed scholarships established by generous families to pooled scholarship funds supported by numerous donors.
As the cost of education in the US continues to escalate, the need to eliminate financial barriers to education becomes ever more critical. Earlier this year, Ruth Gottesman, a long-time professor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, donated a groundbreaking $1 billion to the school, enabling the institution to waive tuition for all its medical students. Last month, Michael Bloomberg announced a transformative $1 billion gift to Johns Hopkins University, allowing students at the university’s medical school to attend free of charge and significantly increasing financial aid for students in the university’s schools of nursing, public health, and other graduate programs. These extraordinary acts of philanthropy fuel excellence, innovation, and discoveries and generate substantial societal benefits.
While it is truly inspiring to witness such significant individual contributions, the combined impact of many donors coming together can be equally powerful in creating educational opportunities. Collective philanthropy has the potential to mobilize resources on a grand scale, making higher education accessible to a broader spectrum of students. By pooling donations, multiple individuals can drive systemic change, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of academic and professional aspirations. Together, we can bridge the gap and pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
As we celebrate our 17th anniversary, we are committed to bringing together our donors for our scholarship funds, ensuring we continue to create opportunities for deserving students. Our vision is to empower, to give, and to change lives. That is why our 17th year is dedicated to offering more students the chance to pursue their education in the United States through our $17 Monthly Education Challenge. We all have someone who believes in us. Now, you can be that someone for a student you do not know yet and help open doors for their futures.
Consider the stories of former TPF scholars like Can Sağlam and Barış, who turned their scholarships into successful careers and community contributions.
Korkmaz Can Sağlam's Story: Korkmaz Can Sağlam, a talented pianist and the Grand Prize winner of the 2022 Vendome Prize for Piano, received a TPF scholarship to continue his graduate studies at the prestigious Cleveland Institute of Music under the direction of Sergei Babayan, following his tenure at the Juilliard School. Today, his first studio album, featuring works by Scriabin, Handel, Schubert, and Rachmaninoff, is out. He is getting ready to start his PhD with a full scholarship at x. His music brings joy to audiences worldwide and inspires other young musicians from Türkiye to pursue their dreams. He is a shining example of what can be achieved with the proper
support and opportunities. Through TPF's scholarship, he has transformed his talent into a professional career, performing on world stages and contributing to the rich tapestry of global classical music.
Barış’s Journey: Barış, another TPF scholar, is pursuing a degree in astrophysics with the help of our scholarship fund. Fascinated by the cosmos, he spent countless nights with his homemade telescope, dreaming of one day becoming an astrophysicist. Despite his family's financial challenges, Barış’s passion for science never waned. With the support of the TPF Scholarship Fund, he is now studying astrophysics at Arizona State University. His dream of exploring the mysteries of the universe is becoming a reality. Barış is committed to advancing our understanding of space and aims to inspire other young scientists in his community.
Imagine the impact $17 a month can have. Accessible education is not just a phrase; it is a lifeline. The impact extends beyond individual students. By supporting the TPF Scholarship Fund, you can be someone who believes in students like Korkmaz Can Sağlam or Barış. Consistent, monthly contributions ensure that we can offer ongoing support and resources, creating a sustainable future for these students and fostering a generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers. ■
For 17 years, Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) has served our community to channel the generosity of over 100,000 donors to disburse more than $40 million. As a community foundation, our intimate knowledge of community needs has fueled innovative solutions to pressing challenges. We have directly impacted over 3 million lives, offering strategic guidance to donors to maximize
◗ Accessible Education: Your $17 monthly directly funds scholarships, making higher education possible for students who otherwise might not have the opportunity.
◗ Empowering Dreams: By supporting the TPF Scholarship Fund, young minds can reach their full potential and pursue their aspirations.
◗ Long-term Impact: Consistent monthly contributions ensure that we can offer ongoing support and resources, creating a sustainable future for these students.
Imagine the impact of your contribution:
◗ Empowered Students: Your support will help students gain knowledge and skills, fostering a generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
◗ Stronger Communities: TPF encourages its scholars to give back to their communities, creating a cycle of positive change.
◗ Lasting Change: Your continuous support will create lasting ripples on students’ lives and beyond.
◗ Commit: Pledge $17 each month to support the TPF Scholarship Fund through our campaign page or your Employee Giving Program.
◗ Share: Tell your friends, family, colleagues, and networks to join the TPF Education Challenge.
◗ See the Impact: Stay connected with updates on the students and the difference your support is making.
Let us make dreams come true, one student at a time.
At Turkish Philanthropy Funds, we know that education is the key to a brighter future. By working together, we can unlock that future for countless students. Your generosity can help transform dreams into reality, creating a legacy of hope and empowerment. Join us in this noble mission and help us build a better world, one student at a time.
their philanthropic reach. TPF is a collaborative hub where donors, businesses, and nonprofits unite, pooling resources and expertise. Together, we have fostered resilient communities and built a LEGACY of positive change that we are all proud of. www.tpfund.org
LinkedIn| Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube Read TPF Earthquake Fund 6th Month Impact Report Read TPF’s Most Recent Annual Report
Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz leads Turkish Philanthropy Funds as its executive director and has been instrumental since its inception. She is also a writer, lecturer, and advocate for social change. Honored as an International Herst Fellow by the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society and a Young Society Leader by the AmericanTurkish Society, Senay frequently writes for the Huffington Post and teaches at Fordham University and the Center on Philanthropy and Civil Society. Senay has a PhD in Political Science from Graduate Center, CUNY, and business certifications from Columbia and Harvard Business Schools. Additionally, she is a trained yoga and mindfulness instructor.
Getting recognized by the Television Academy was such an honor; having my parents at the ceremony to witness it was pivotal.
The culture of stories and folk literature is engraved in the Turkish tapestry… everything in Türkiye comes with a rich story.
By Sitki Kazanci
Ceylan Çarhoğlu is an Emmy Award-winning Turkish documentary filmmaker whose work has garnered numerous accolades in international competitions. She co-produced the feature-length documentary STRAY on Hulu and is working on two new documentary series for Netflix.
Previously, Çarhoğlu produced Golden: The Journey of USA's Elite Gymnasts (Peacock), Gunther's Millions (Netflix), and Buried Truth: The Indrani Mukerjea Story (Netflix). Among her most notable works is Gardeners of the Forest, which won a College Emmy Award in 2016. Currently, Ceylan is a story producer at MakeMake Entertainment
Let us begin the interview.
Can you tell us about your early beginnings, birthplace, and parents?
I grew up in Istanbul, Türkiye, until I was 19 years old. My sister named me after insisting to my mom for countless days about it. My aunt was reading “Bambi” to her the week I was born, and she decided she loves “deer” aka “ceylan.” My parents were planning to name me something else but could not say no to my sister after a while.
Where did you pursue higher education, and what did you study?
Chapman University! I studied film production there for 4 years. It is a great school for hands-on experience and building a network.
How did your professional journey in the United States begin, and what can you share about your career path?
I started working as a tech assistant at Chapman’s editing labs. That job taught me so much
about problem-solving and communicating with people from all departments of filmmaking. It gave me an insight into the needs of every level of production. After graduating, with the help of my short documentary, Gardeners of the Forest, I went into a fellowship program, which led to me working as an assistant editor on a feature documentary. I was lucky to work with two great directors who listened to the direction I wanted to grow in. After that, I kept producing and following where each
“Sheena’s story instantly pulled me in and for 3 years, I structured the show, oversaw the teams, wrote the interviews, and most importantly made sure Sheena’s voice was brought to the forefront.”
project took me. I do not think the “what’s next” struggle ever ends in this industry. It definitely is not a linear line trajectory but more of a roller coaster ride—it is not for everyone but I am very happy with the direction I am going.
Could you talk about your Emmy award and what it means to you?
That award was for the documentary I did call Gardeners of the Forest. It is about the status of the elephants in Laos and, to this day, one of my favorite pieces I made. Getting recognized by the Television Academy was such an honor; having my parents at the ceremony to witness
it was pivotal. It taught me that when you are passionate about a subject, the audience feels it and honors it.
What inspired you to choose your career path?
I think being Turkish had a great impact on going into a career of storytelling. The culture of stories and folk literature is engraved in the Turkish tapestry; from history to cuisine, to music, even to how we drink our coffee, everything in Türkiye comes with a rich story. We are very good at retelling and reliving those stories to continue the culture and that is
something that got really engraved in me. I also was in an animation club in elementary school (I am talking about old school, drawing on backlit tables with transfer papers type of animation), which kickstarted my interest in filmmaking.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your work so far?
The most challenging part of my work is also my favorite part of it. As a story producer, a big part of my job is doing research and diving into someone else’s world, learning both their verbal and nonverbal language and cues,
observing their life, and trying to put all of my findings in a compelling, organized story structure that engages an audience. With this comes a lot of responsibility and pressure. Sometimes I spend years researching a subject or getting to know a person we are making a documentary on. It becomes challenging to stay objective and see the bigger picture the entire time. Each project, I am learning to step out and see the bigger picture faster and faster but it is not always easy especially if it is a true crime series that deals with an unsolved murder case.
Your latest project, Buried Truth: The Indrani Mukerjea Story, was on Netflix’s most-watched list globally for a while. Could you tell us about what your involvement was like on that project?
Buried Truth is about the disappearance of a 25-year-old girl named Sheena Bora. Her trial, unfortunately, is still going on and awaiting justice. When the executive producers reached out in 2021, I was finishing a show called Gunther’s Millions, and they knew I was very interested in true crime and very passionate about research. Sheena’s story instantly pulled me in and for 3 years, I structured the show, oversaw the teams, wrote the interviews, and most importantly made sure Sheena’s voice was brought to the forefront. This was a joint production between India and the US and the first remotely edited show in India. The time difference in itself was very challenging but the most difficult part of the project was getting to the truth.
What hobbies and activities do you enjoy in your free time?
Anything that involves animals, you can count me in! Living in California, we are so lucky with all kinds of different terrain—whether the desert, the mountains, or the beach, there is so much to see here. I love taking my dog, Rudy, on adventures. Apart from that, last year, in the most random way, I got into watching ice hockey and have been really enjoying following the NHL games. Most of the weekends, I either go on hikes or try to bake unnecessarily complex birthday cakes for my friends.
Who has been the most influential person in your life, and why?
My sister, Selen, has been a huge influence on my life. She was the first one to go to the US for college, and her courage in pursuing what she wanted to do inspired me to follow in her footsteps.
Also, my art teacher at Koc High School, Mehtap Unluturk, was the one to convince my parents to let me study film production. She was always on board with my ideas for a project as long as it had intent behind it. She also ensured access to the latest software to help us learn what the industry was using. I am so thankful for her belief in my talent and support. ■
For each edition, our award committee honors a “Community Star,” highlighting an individual dedicated to helping others, passionately advocating for Turkish culture, and achieving professional success. This month, we have chosen Dr Sinem Vatanartıran, President of Bay Atlantic University in Washington, DC, who is leading BAU in DC. BAU is a Washington, DC-based private, non-profit university that offers high-quality higher education programs to US and international students.
By Oya Bain
This month’s community star is Dr Sinem Vatanartiran, President of Bay Atlantic University in Washington, DC, and Vice President of the Bahçeşehir University Global Education Network. In 2005, she became a principal within the Bahçeşehir Colleges network of high schools in Türkiye. In 2006, Dr Vatanartiran established the first Science and Technology High School in Türkiye. In 2008, she founded Türkiye’s
first Children’s Science Museum at Bahçeşehir College. She also created Türkiye’s first career services center, the Ugur Career Services Center. Dr Vatanartiran has been a prolific publisher in the field of education, including a weekly column in the national newspaper Vatan. We thank her for her informative and inspiring interview.
Can you tell us about your early beginnings? Your childhood? Original birthplace? Your parents, siblings? I was born in Karabük and raised in Ankara, Türkiye, by a successful engineer father and a devoted mother. I am Circassian in origin. I have two sisters and a brother. I have fond memories of my childhood, which was filled with curiosity and a love for learning. My immense joy was playing with the kids on the block in the empty field next to our apartment building, inventing new plays and games every day. We only had a few toys, but we could turn many things in nature into toys. Our creativity and innovation when we were kids played a significant role in my later development and success in life. They helped me grow many skill sets like team building, resolving issues, creative thinking, respecting differences, and working toward a set goal.
What factors influenced you most in your formative years? Early education? The educational environment significantly
influenced my formative years. I was fortunate to have access to quality education and encouraging and supportive mentors. Almost everyone in my larger family had higher education.
Higher education? Where and what did you study?
I pursued higher education at Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi (Middle East Technical University), obtaining a bachelor’s degree in English language teaching, a master’s degree in language teaching and program design, and finally, my PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration. This academic journey allowed me to explore various facets of education and leadership, preparing me for the challenges and opportunities in the field.
How did you choose your career path?
I knew that a career in education was the right path for me. My desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives motivated me. My experiences as a student and my passion for teaching and management led me to roles where I could influence educational policies and practices. When I was in my early twenties and working at a university in Ankara, I received an offer from Bahçeşehir University, a newly established university back in 2000. That is when I began my journey at BAU and assumed several positions over these twenty years, at all levels of education, from K-12 to the university under the same umbrella.
Tell us about the journey of leading Bahçeşehir University (BAU) in Washington, DC. Could you give us a brief overview of the university, its mission, and its significance in the field of education?
Leading Bay Atlantic University (BAU) in Washington, DC, has been an incredible journey. Established in 2014, BAU aims to provide high-quality education in a select number of programs in business, international relations and political science, information sciences and engineering, and a language school at Mentora College. Our founder, Mr Enver Yucel, has a global vision for education, which the former Secretary of the UN recognized with an award for his contributions to global education. We wanted to bring his experience, wisdom, and perspective as a Turkish educational entrepreneur to create a different level of synergy with good higher education practices in the US.
Please tell us how BAU developed into an international university with students from all over the world.
Our development into a new-generation university has been driven by six key aspects: connected
(with industry and other organizations), global (through a large international network), focused (through a commitment to excellence in a select number of program offerings), central (located in the heart of the city), dynamic (through organizational structures that allow us to keep upto-date in all aspects), and affordable (through offering high-quality education at reasonable
pricing). We have attracted students from various countries by offering degrees that meet global career market demands and maintaining high academic standards. Our curriculum includes practical applications and field trips, appealing to international students seeking a comprehensive educational experience. We currently have 850 students from 45 countries, largely from Latin America and South Asia.
What are the challenges and memorable aspects of leading a crucial educational institution in the US? Could you also share your leadership style and how it has contributed to the success of BAU?
Leading an educational institution in the US presents challenges such as maintaining academic standards, ensuring student satisfaction, and staying competitive amongst well-established institutions with long histories, especially in Washington, DC. The biggest challenge in management is our biggest strength: having a multicultural environment. We are proud of the vast diversity and that many different cultural heritages, religious traditions, beliefs, and perspectives are represented on our campus. This is our richness. However, it sometimes comes with difficulties, as such an environment may cause cultural misunderstandings. My leadership style is inclusive and studentfocused. I prioritize feedback from students and faculty to continuously improve our programs. This commitment to lifelong learning and professional development has been vital to our success at BAU.
Could you tell us about your current family? Do you have family in the US?
I live with my two dogs (my girls), my biggest moral support and the joys of my life. Sipse, who is 3, is an Anatolian shepherd, and Kurt, who is 9, is a German shepherd.
What issues have you been working on?
Your involvement in the community?
I have been deeply involved in various educational initiatives, focusing on the future of higher education, artificial intelligence, student achievement, and teacher development.
What hobbies and activities do you enjoy in your free time?
I enjoy activities that allow me to relax and recharge. While I am passionate about my work, I also value time spent with family and friends, as well as pursuing personal interests that keep me grounded and inspired. I do pilates regularly and take my girls out for long walks.
Could you describe your daily routine for us?
My daily routine involves managing the administrative and academic aspects, like engaging with students and faculty, and working on strategic initiatives for the university. Every season, we have different key aspects of the operation to focus on that shape my daily routines, like student recruitment before fall, spring, and summer semesters, the commencement ceremony in
spring, board of trustees’ meetings in fall and spring, financial reporting at the end of the fiscal year, and new student and faculty orientations before each semester
What is your favorite quote? What is your proudest moment in your life?
One of my favorite quotes is, “Those who do not dream will not reap any reality,” by Enver Yucel, our founder. I believe in the importance of having a dream first. My proudest moments are often related to seeing the success of our students and the positive impact our educational initiatives have on their lives. I feel the happiest when a former student calls me or gives me a surprise visit, tells me all the wonderful things they are doing in their life, and thanks me.
Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
There have been many influential people in my life, from mentors to colleagues. However, the most influential is Enver Yucel, who guided me early in my career and helped me see and use my potential to realize my dreams in education, such as establishing the first Science and Technology High School and the Children’s Science Museum in Türkiye. These initiatives reflect my commitment to innovation in education.
Is there something that the readers of TurkNetwork magazine might be surprised to learn about you?
I am not sure. I do not know what to say now. I do not think I am full of surprises.
What are your recommendations to the Turkish-American Community?
I encourage the Turkish-American Community to prioritize education, embrace lifelong learning, and actively engage in community-building activities. These elements are crucial for personal and collective growth.
Would you like to share any message with our readers?
Stay curious, seek knowledge, and enjoy the fun of learning. ■
Bay Atlantic University 1510 H Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20005
Phone: (202) 644-7200
info@bau.edu www.bau.edu
Ardea Project Engineering Consulting has emerged as a beacon of innovation and expertise in sustainable development and climate resilience, impacting communities across multiple countries through high-impact projects.
By Sibel Kulaksiz
In a world increasingly defined by the urgent need for sustainable development and climate resilience, Ardea Project Engineering Consulting has emerged as a beacon of innovation and expertise. Headquartered in Ankara, Türkiye, Ardea's influence extends beyond national borders, impacting communities across Iraq, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Collaborating with the World Bank to deliver high-impact projects is a significant aspect of their success. This is a good case study for other companies that want to reach high-impact results.
Ardea’s commitment to addressing climate change is evident in their extensive work in renewable energy. The company has installed over 2000 MW of renewable energy capacity,
leveraging wind, hydro, and solar power to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable energy infrastructure. These initiatives are crucial for World Bank-financed projects to mitigate climate change and foster a more resilient energy grid. Ardea’s work in this sector highlights its ability to deliver actions that align with global sustainability goals.
In technology, Ardea excels by utilizing intelligent grid technologies and energy storage systems. These innovations are crucial in enhancing the performance and sustainability of their projects. By staying ahead of technological advancements, Ardea ensures that its solutions are effective today and resilient for the future. Their approach to integrating technology in project implementation promises sustainable solutions.
Recognizing the critical role of transportation in carbon emissions, Ardea develops solutions that make urban transport more efficient and environmentally friendly. By integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative design, they aim to reduce metropolitan areas' carbon footprint while improving household accessibility. They focus on reducing emissions and enhancing the overall quality of urban life.
Looking ahead, Ardea is targeting new frontiers in sustainability, focusing on hydrogen technologies and methane reduction. These emerging areas offer significant potential for reducing carbon emissions. Ardea actively seeks global partners to collaborate on these initiatives, leveraging collective expertise and resources to create a cleaner world. This strategic expansion is part of the company’s
broader vision to lead in innovative environmental solutions.
Ardea’s dedicated teamwork is under the World Bank’s public and municipal projects. This collaboration underscores Ardea’s credibility and capability in executing large-scale, high-impact projects. The World Bank’s financing enables Ardea to implement projects that drive sustainable development, improve public infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life in urban areas. Their work with the World Bank reflects a commitment to global standards and a vision for sustainable progress.
A diverse and impactful project portfolio highlights Ardea’s success. With over 170 projects completed, the company has demonstrated its versatility and capability in handling complex, multidisciplinary projects. Their significant contributions to renewable energy, particularly in
installing substantial renewable energy capacity, reflect their dedication to sustainability. Furthermore, Ardea’s international presence showcases its ability to adapt and implement projects in varied geographical and cultural contexts, enhancing its reputation as a global leader in sustainability.
Currently, Ardea is providing consultancy services for approximately 150 MW of solar energy projects. In addition, Ardea is actively engaged with around 30 municipalities, conducting environmental and social management plans, feasibility studies, creditworthiness evaluations, and financial and economic analyses. These efforts have enabled municipalities to secure World Bank financing. Ardea is now supervising these projects on-site to transform cities into green urban centers in compliance with Türkiye's regulations, allowing municipalities to produce their energy.
Ardea's strength lies in its multidisciplinary team of experts. From urban planners and environmental engineers to renewable energy specialists and financial analysts, the team brings a wealth of experience and passion for sustainability. Key team members, such as CEO Abdulhamit Turgut Bağdat, drive the company’s mission with their expertise and dedication. This diverse expertise enables Ardea to tackle the multifaceted challenges of modern projects effectively.
Ardea’s ambition does not stop at national borders. With the incentive received from the Ministry of Commerce of Türkiye, Ardea is now establishing worldwide offices. This strategic expansion aims to bolster its global presence and facilitate closer collaboration with international partners. Its slogan, “One Day Everybody will be Ardea,” encapsulates its vision of greater impact.
Ardea’s core expertise spans a wide range of services, including design review, front-end engineering design, detailed design, feasibility studies, environmental and social impact assessments, environmental and social management plans, creditworthiness studies, land acquisition, and comprehensive project development, project management, and solutions. These services form the backbone of Ardea’s operations, ensuring that every project meets the highest quality and sustainability standards.
As the world continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change and rapid urbanization, companies like Ardea Project Engineering Consulting play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future. Their comprehensive approach to sustainable development, from urban mobility to renewable energy and technological innovation, sets a benchmark for other firms in the industry. Ardea’s work not only meets today’s needs but also paves the way for a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow.
In summary, Ardea Project Engineering Consulting exemplifies the power of innovative solutions in addressing some of the most critical challenges of our time. Their extensive project experience, commitment to renewable energy, and emphasis on technological innovation position them as leaders in sustainable development. As we look to the future, the contributions of companies like Ardea will be instrumental in creating a more sustainable and resilient world. ■
Sibel Kulaksız is a senior economist with the World Bank Group South Asia Region, based in Washington, DC. She also served as country economist for Middle East and Africa regions taskmanaging macroeconomic policy work with a focus on economic growth, fiscal policy, international trade, and regional economic integration issues.
Kulaksiz is an Executive Board member of the Harvard Kennedy School Women’s Network, and co-president of the Arya Women International Club. She sits on the Executive Board of the Istanbul Economy Summit. She is also the Washington, DC, representative of the World Turkish Business Council.
SPECIAL SECTION:
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ALEV WIELAND THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF ALEV COSMETICS FOUNDER Page 41
From vibrant jewel tones and soft pastels to natural-looking reds and dimensional blondes, there is a trend to suit every style this year.
By Elizabeth Adams
The world of hair color is constantly evolving, and 2024 is no exception. This year’s trends emphasize bold expression, personalized shades, and a modern twist on natural beauty. Whether you are a stylist looking to stay ahead or someone considering a new look, these top 10 hair color trends offer something for everyone.
1. VIBRANT JEWEL TONES
Jewel tones are making a significant comeback, offering a luxurious and eye-catching option. Think deep emeralds, rich sapphires, and vibrant amethysts. These colors can be applied for a dramatic effect or used as highlights to add dimension.
Styling Tip: Use color-protecting shampoos and conditioners and minimize heat styling to prevent fading.
2. SOFT PASTELS
Pastels are getting updated with nuanced
shades like lavender, mint green, and peach. These soft hues are perfect for experimenting without committing to something too bold.
Styling Tip: Pastels fade quickly, so frequent touch-ups and color-depositing conditioners can help maintain vibrancy.
3. NATURAL-LOOKING REDS
Red hair is timeless, and 2024 is about embracing natural-looking red hues like strawberry blonde, copper, and auburn. These shades mimic natural variations and enhance the complexion.
Styling Tip: Red dyes fade fast, so use sulfatefree shampoos and cold water washes to extend color life.
4. DIMENSIONAL BLONDES
Blonde hair gets a makeover with multiple shades blended to create depth and texture. Techniques like balayage and babylights blend different shades seamlessly for a sunkissed effect.
Styling Tip: Regular toning treatments keep blonde shades fresh and prevent brassiness.
5. MUTED METALLICS
Metallic hair colors are evolving into more muted, sophisticated shades like silver, rose gold, and bronze. These colors are toned down to create a subtle shimmer rather than an overt shine.
Styling Tip: Metallic shades require a light base, so pre-lightening may be necessary for darker hair.
6. BRUNETTE WITH A TWIST
Brunette hair is updated with subtle highlights and lowlights in tones like caramel, honey, and mocha to create a rich, multi-dimensional look.
Styling Tip: Gloss treatments add shine and enhance the depth of brunette shades.
7. PEEKABOO HIGHLIGHTS
Peekaboo highlights involve adding hidden streaks of color underneath the top layer of hair. When the hair is down, the highlights peek through subtly.
Styling Tip: Use color-safe dry shampoo to extend time between washes and maintain vibrancy.
The hair color trends for 2024 emphasize personalization, bold expression, and modern twists on natural beauty, offering something for everyone.
8.
Glossy black hair is making a bold statement. This trend is all about achieving a deep, rich black color that looks almost reflective.
Styling Tip: Avoid over-washing to prevent dullness. Use dry shampoo to keep hair fresh.
Ecaille combines shades of gold, caramel, and dark brown to create a warm, multidimensional look. It is a sophisticated, lowmaintenance color that grows out beautifully.
Styling Tip: Use color-safe shampoo and
conditioner to preserve the richness of the ecaille shades.
10. WARM NEUTRALS
Warm neutral shades like sandy blonde, honey brown, and chestnut are gaining popularity for their versatility and natural appeal. These shades work well with various skin tones and offer an elegant look.
Styling Tip: Regular deep-conditioning treatments maintain the softness and shine of warm neutral shades.
The hair color trends for 2024 emphasize personalization, bold expression, and modern twists on natural beauty. From vibrant jewel tones and soft pastels to natural-looking reds and dimensional blondes, there is a trend to suit every style. Stay ahead of these trends and use the right products and techniques to achieve a fresh, stylish look that stands out. Embrace the new year with a stunning hair color that reflects your unique personality and taste. ■
My journey from engineering to cosmetics highlights the importance of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to quality and safety.
Growing up with strong, educated women under Atatürk’s Democratic Republic shaped my early education and development, instilling in me the importance of a well-rounded academic and cultural upbringing.
By Sitki Kazanci
We delve into the remarkable life of Alev Wieland, founder of Alev Cosmetics. Born in Muğla, Türkiye, Alev Wieland shares her journey from a childhood surrounded by strong, educated women, to a career in engineering, and eventually to creating a successful organic skincare line. Her story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the importance of quality and safety in personal care products. Let us get started with the interview to uncover more about Alev Wieland’s incredible journey and her commitment to excellence in skincare.
Can you share details about your early beginnings, including your childhood and original birthplace? Could you tell us about your parents and siblings?
I was born in Muğla, Türkiye. My father, Mehmet Göçgenci , was the Director of Writing Affairs (Yazı İşleri Müdürü) at the State of Muğla Municipality. My mother, Hafize Karul Göçgenci , graduated from the Girl’s Institute (Kiz Olgunlaşma Enstütüsü). She was one of the first generation of women under Atatürk’s Democratic Republic and was an amazing
designer and craftswoman. I had one younger brother, Mesut. We grew up in the home my grandfather built.
What factors influenced you most during your formative years? Can you tell us about your early education?
I had very strong, democratic, and educated women who influenced my life. All my aunts were first-generation teachers in the new Turkish Republic. I especially credit my mother’s sister, Halide, who was my elementary school teacher, and my mother’s brother, Dr İsmail Karul, along with my parents , who made significant contributions to my education and early development. While my aunt prepared me academically, my mother ensured I received training in traditional Turkish handcrafts. Starting at an early age, I learned crocheting, knitting, sewing, cross stitching, needle crafting, etc. I believe this speaks to the significance of the secondgeneration Ataturk Women—we received a well-rounded academic and cultural education that made us who we are today. I started school at Muğla Ataturk elementary school. My aunt, who was teaching at Yatagan Ataturk Elementary School, visited us on the
weekends. She always brought books to read and tested me to see how well I was learning. In the middle of 3rd grade, my teacher got sick, and we were getting substitute teachers. I was falling behind and failed some of my aunt’s weekly tests. Aunt Halide told my parents to pack my clothes, and she took me to Yatagan to teach me until I finished elementary school. Reluctantly I went, but finishing elementary school in Yatagan was the best decision for my education.
I returned back to Muğla for Middle school and later graduated from Turgut Reis High School.
Where did you pursue higher education, and what did you study?
In those days, there were no universities in Muğla. My objective was to work at NATO, so I wanted to further my education in English. The Turkish and American governments started a school in Izmir to teach Americans Turkish and Turks English. My uncle, Dr Ismail Karul, encouraged me to attend this private school and told my father he would cover the cost. My father felt Izmir was too far for a young girl to go away to school, so my entire family moved to Izmir so I could continue my
education. During my senior year, I met my first husband; we married and came to the US in 1976.
You studied electrical engineering. What led you to choose a career in the cosmetics sector?
Engineering Background: I decided to raise my two children as a "stay-at-home" Mom during their early years. My first marriage was rocky, and my future was not sure. As my daughter attended kindergarten, I evaluated my strengths and weaknesses and considered possible career choices. I excelled in math, sciences, and the arts and became an engineer. I brushed up in these areas, accessing books from the library. I tested and was accepted into the electrical engineering program at the University of Cincinnati. After the first quarter, I received academic scholarships and supplemented my educational expenses by obtaining my realtor’s license and selling homes.
This was a five-year program with mandatory co-op job experience like internship programs in other universities. I did my co-op work with Belcan Engineering at Proctor and Gamble. During my senior year, I worked
at Belcan around my school schedule and received a full scholarship, including the cost of my senior design project. I graduated with honors in 1993 with an EE degree specializing in Control Systems and Automation. I started my first job at Belcan Engineering at the Proctor and Gamble division.
My first husband and I divorced. Several years later I met my current husband, Ron. I moved to Dallas and accepted a senior project manager position with Frito Lay at their Plano, Texas, Headquarters.
Later I moved into the operations group and assumed operational responsibilities for Fritos Corn Chips and Sunchips brands. I was responsible for approximately 27 plants in the US and Canada. Later I was promoted to PepsiCo International Capability Director of Asia Middle East and Africa Sector, moving to Dubai for two years. I retired from PepsiCo in 2012.
After returning to Dallas in 2013 I started Manufacturing Excellence Technical Services, LLC, and started providing consulting services. I drew on my extensive experience in
◗ Project Management
◗ Construction Management
◗ Lean Manufacturing Solutions
◗ Equipment Optimization
◗ Process Optimization
◗ Food Manufacturing
◗ Cosmetics Manufacturing
◗ Train the Trainer Programs
◗ Quality Audits
◗ Process Audits
◗ Productivity Improvement
◗ GMP Certification ISO 72216 Process
◗ ISO 9001 Certification Process
What led you to choose a career in the cosmetics sector?
In 2020, during the COVID crisis, I had to put my technical business on hold as it required me to travel to clients’ facilities.
After discovering I have an auto-immune thyroid condition, I learned about the horrible impact on our health from products in the market that are full of chemicals and harmful ingredients. These chemicals first attack our hormonal system and, next, our organs; in most cases, we do not even know it until it is too late. I had to make drastic changes to my food sources, the personal care products I use, and my environment. Because of my condition, my skin gets very dry. I diligently searched for products— especially personal care products—with all
certified organic ingredients, free of GMOs, soy, dairy, and chemicals. Since I could not find satisfactory products, I started making my own. After testing them on myself for over four year, my skin felt moist, soft, and fabulous. Family members and friends who tried my products loved them and encouraged me to market them. This is how Alev Cosmetics started.
Can you tell us about your current family? Do you have any family in the US?
My husband Ron and I married in 2000 and reside in McKinney, Texas. We have a son, Leroy Mustafa Hall, his wife, Cassandra, a daughter, Ayse Mitchell Keck, and a husband, Jeff—all of whom reside in Cincinnati. My family in Türkiye is small, but we are very close. Unfortunately, I lost my only brother in 2006. I have my aunt Nermin Karul, her sister Sevim Doğan, nephew Cem Göçgenci, his mother Aysun, niece İrem and husband Jorgen Göçgenci Jacobson, Mehmet Özsaran, Yeşim and Hasan Çalışal, cousins Sevinç Göçgenci and daughter Sinem Altındağ, Mert and Aysun Gürlek, daughter Eliziya. In the US, I have my husband’s family, our children, close friends, and neighbors who are like family to us.
Could you provide some insights into Alev Cosmetics?
I am committed to providing quality and safe products to our customers. Quality should never be compromised. Alev Cosmetics is part of Manufacturing Excellence Technical Services. I take pride in selecting high-quality certified organic ingredients free of GMOs, soy, and chemicals. I carefully handcrafted all products, packaged, and shipped directly to our customers. Part of my responsibility is to educate our customers about our personal care products and ingredients. Our website is full of helpful information.
Alev Cosmetics is proud to announce that in 2023, we received our USDA BIOPREFERRED®Certification.
Our creams are USDA-CERTIFIED 100% Biobased Products.
The BioPreferred Program is a USDA-led initiative that aims to facilitate the development and expansion of markets for biobased products. Biobased Products help us increase our use of renewable resources while decreasing our use of non-renewable resources, such as petroleum.
With the USDA Certified Biobased Product label on our products, our customers can quickly identify that our company meets the high standards set forth by the USDA Secretary of Agriculture.
Our Certified Products are:
◗ Eye Cream
◗ Face & Body Cream
◗ Face & Body Cream - Lavender
◗ Leave in Hair Conditioner
◗ Beard Butter
Alev Cosmetics cares for people, environment, and education. We only use carefully selected USDA certified organic ingredients. Our company is creating eco-friendly products and packaging for our customers who love them and also care about the environment.
Our plant-based products are more sustainable than traditional products because of their sourcing, manufacturing, and packaging. By using natural, organic products like ours, you avoid many of the toxic elements found in popular brands that are damaging to the environment and to our health. Choosing natural, plant-based beauty products is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint and become more ecologically aware.
Our products are made in the US. Why buy US-made products? Buying US-made and packaged products is important because with each purchase, you support our economy and the creation of jobs. Investing in products made in the US not only secures the future of small businesses like ours within the country,
but it also puts your hard-earned money back to work in America.
Alev Cosmetics gives back: Every product you purchase helps someone's education. We donate 1% of our gross sales toward the education of needy children through Contemporary Education Foundation (COEDFO).
We also donation 1% of our gross sales to planting trees in the US National Forests through the National Forest Foundation. Every product you purchase helps to plant trees.
You have volunteered for many years, helping the Turkish community. As the ATAA UN Relations Committee cochair and ATAA President-Elect, can you share your vision for these roles?
I have been serving as the President-Elect of ATAA since May 2024. I served on the ATAA Board of Directors as the Southwest Region Vice President from 2020 to 2024 and First Vice President from October 2023 to May 2024. I also serve as the cochair of the ATAA UN Relations Committee and Chair of the ATAA Newsletter Committee.
The work we do with UN programs, with the combined effort of ATAA and its UN partners ETAC, TWLA, and LM, is very important for the Turkish community. We are making
a positive impact with UN programs, and at the same time, we are giving Turkish subject matter experts and students a voice on a global platform.
I have been the Secretary-General and NGO Relations Director of the Contemporary Education Foundation since 2013. I have been responsible for organizational communication, meetings management, documentation, and website management in this role.
As the Trustee and active Turkish American Association of Northern Texas member, I have provided organizational operations support to its elected board members and helped execute projects since 2000.
Since 2023, I have served as a Trustee of the Turkish American Visual and Performing Arts (TAVPA.org) organization in Dallas, Texas.
What hobbies and activities do you enjoy in your free time?
I love teaching others about the richness of Turkish culture, arts, cuisine, and music. I also enjoy organic gardening, swimming, dancing,
reading, woodworking, stained glass making, home remodeling, handcrafts, international travel, and spending time with family and friends. I love learning new things and helping others.
Would you describe a typical day in your life?
Ron and I allocate mornings for us. We have coffee, and I have my own mixture of herbal tea. We talk about our daily calendar, dinner plans, etc., and then we go about our daily activities. I love walking in our garden in the morning, inspecting my flowers and vegetables, and taking care of them. I check my messages, emails, order status, and return calls. Along with working on ongoing projects, my days are quite busy with my business and volunteer work.
What is your favorite quote? What is your proudest moment in life?
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was a leader who appreciated the place of women in society and civilization to the extent of saying, "Everything we see on the face of the earth is the work of women." This quote always gave me
hope and motivation.
My proudest moment is to see my children grow up to be responsible caring people and form their families.
Who has been the most influential person in your life, and why?
My parents, my aunt Halide Can (Karul) and my uncle Dr İsmail Karul had been very influential in my life. They all knew the importance of education, loved me, and wanted me to succeed.
Is there something about you that might surprise the readers of TurkNetwork magazine?
In 2008, I was instrumental in organizing the first annual Oktoberfest in my hometown of McKinney, Texas. Since then, I have volunteered annually to take an active role in the growth of this event, which attracts over 75,000 people yearly and has become a major source of income for my hometown.
What are your recommendations for the Turkish-American community?
The Turkish community needs to pool its talent, strength, and resources for the common good and work together on the key topics that matter to our community. Unity brings strength!
Would you like to share any special message with our readers?
We all use many products in our daily lives. I would like to make our readers aware of the products they use. Read about all the ingredients in the products, as there are so many that are harmful to our health and to the environment over time. It is best to use clean, plant-based, renewable products that are free of harmful chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides. Find alternative safe products to use.
How can people contact you and Alev Cosmetics?
https://alevcosmetics.com Info@alevcosmetics.com
Also, see our newsletter. >
ALEV COSMETICS |
Alev Wieland (301) 424-7150 www.alevcosmetics.com www.alevcosmetics.com/shop SEE AD ON PAGE 3
ALANYA SALON
Cevat Topcu 3285 M St NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 339-9500 www.alanyaspadc.com
ARZUM BARBER SHOP 106 N Columbus St Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 299-0050
BARBERS CLUB NEO
Gurcan Gokcen 444 W Broad St, Suite C Falls Church, VA 22046 (571) 395-4422 www.barbersclubneo.com
BELLA MODA SALON & SPA
Dogan Set POTOMAC 10118 River Road Potomac, MD 20854 (301) 983-5545
WHARF DC
780 Maine Avenue, Suite 412 Washington, DC 20024 (202) 290-1950 www.bellamodasalonspa.com
CURRENT SALON & COLOR BAR
Nese Altas 44714 Brimfield Drive Ashburn, VA 20147 (703) 724-9444 www.currentbynese.com
DOGAN & JOHN HAIR SALON
Dogan and John 527 Maple Ave West Vienna, VA 22180 (703) 319-8800 www.doganandjohnsalon.com
GEORGE AT THE FOUR SEASONS
Ismail Tekin / Sertac - Serkan Ozturk 2828 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 342-1942 www.Georgefourseasonssalon.com
GEORGETOWN COURT
3251 Prospect St, Suites 19 & 20 NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 333-5133 www.tokasalon.com
GLAMOROUS HAIR & NAIL
Sener Camli 3201 Rogers Ave, #101 Ellicott City, MD 21043 (410) 750-2620 www.glamoroushairandnails.com
GUVEN SALON & SPA
Guven Baltaci 2315 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-8048 www.guvensalon.com
HEADLINER HAIR SALON
Stylist Zeke 5008 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC 20008 (202) 966-9662 www.headlinerhairsalon.com
IMAJ HAIR SALON
Recep Kizilirmak, Rukiye and Ercan Yucel 3301 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20008 (202) 966-7979 www.imajhairsalon.com
INSTYLES BARBERSHOP
Hasan Gurel 2200 Clarendon Blvd Arlington, VA 22201 (703) 875-0050 www.instylesbarbershop.com
K&M HAIR LOUNGE
Mehmet and Koray Acarsoy 22114 Gramercy Park Dr, Suite 130 Ashburn, VA 20147 (571) 666-2141 www.kmhairlounge.com
KADER’S BARBERSHOP
10195 Main St R Fairfax, VA 22031 (703) 272-3777 www.kadersbarbershop.com
KUDRET 1 HAIR SALON
Kadir Gul 11445 Isaac Newton Sq South Reston, VA 20190 (703) 318-6000
LUTFI’S SALON & DAY SPA 12143 Clarksville Pike Clarksville, MD 21029 (410) 531-3300 www.lutfisalon.com
MACOMB HAIR SALON
Cem Surucu - Franco Murat 3716 Macomb St NW Washington, DC 20016 (202) 363-9338 www.salonmacomb.com
MUSE BOUTIQUE SALON
Atilla Yilmaz 3620 Lee Hwy Arlington, VA 22207 (703) 527-2777 museboutiquesalon.com
POLIN SALON & SPA
Yusuf Aslan 1740 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-5377 www.polinsalon.com
RAFET’S HAIRMASTER
Irfan Gurbuz 9104 Chesapeake Ave North Beach, MD 20714 (410) 535-6220 www.rafetsarundel.com
SALON CHARISMA
Hakan Kaygisiz 1365 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20036 (202) 331-9807 www.saloncharisma.com
SALON CITI
Cebrial Toker / Jim 11877-A Grand Commons Ave Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 828-1125 www.salonciti.com
SALON FILIZ
Filiz Tatar
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SALON ISTANBUL
Ismail Sari
4001 N 9th St, Suite 113 Arlington, VA 22203 (703) 525-6444 www.salonistanbul.us
SALON LEAU
LoAnn Lai - Ziya Gultekin 3240 P Street NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 625-2220 www.salonleau.com
SALON O TONY |
Mustafa Demirkiran 130 Maple Ave West Vienna, VA 22180 (703) 281-3191 www.salonotony.com SEE AD ON PAGE 5
SALON OMER & SPA
Omer Cevirme 2924 M Street, NW Washington,DC 20007 (202) 338-3584 www.salonomer.com
SALON OZHEA
Oz and Hasan 9065 Frederick Road Ellicott City, MD 21042 (410) 750-8070 www.salonozhea.com
SALON SIMIS
Ahmet Sim 10090 Main St Ste 101 Fairfax, VA 22031 (703) 273-6500 www.salonsimis.com
SALON SUNA / Clarksville Pike
Turgut Koroglu 12175 Clarksville Pike Clarksville Pike, MD 21029 (443) 491-7062
Salon Suna / Glenwood 2465 MD-97 Glenwood, MD 21738 (410) 489-5990 www.salonsuna.com
SALON TUSEY
Seyfi Yavuzer 5805 Clarksville Square Dr, #6 Clarksville, MD 21029 (410) 531-5046 www.salontusey.com
SALON UPSTAIRS
Murat Durak 1620 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 944-5050 www.salonupstairs.com
SELIN HAIR STUDIO
Mustafa Cimen 619 S Washington St Alexandria, VA 22314 (571) 357-1732 www.selinhairstudio.com
SEMRA SKIN CARE
Semra Tanrikulu 1070 Thomas Jefferson NW, #202 Washington, DC 20007 (202) 944-5080 www.semradc.com
STUDIO 47 SPA
Faik Halici 4710 Bethesda Ave Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 654-2811 www.studio47spa.com
THE BARBER OF SEVILLE
Mustafa Ertunc 11750 Fair Oaks Mall Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 359-0909 http://goo.gl/uKqkez
THE CUT ABOVE
Zeynep and Veli Kaya 19386 Diamond Lake Dr Leesburg, VA 20176 (571) 333-4411 www.thecutabove.net
TINNER HILL HAIR SALON
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TOM & DENIZ HAIR STUDIO
Tom - Deniz 6721 Curran St, Suite 200 McLean, VA 22101 (703) 663-8288 https://tomdenizhairstudios.com/
USTA BARBER SHOP
Cetin Noyan 11750 Fair Oaks Mall Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 999-8701 www.ustabarbershop.com
VIOLET SALON
Mesut Ozaydin 1513 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007 (202) 337-3477 www.violetsalonandspa.com
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Chronic stress accelerates the aging process by degrading collagen and elastin, leading to the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
By Sara Jensen
Stress has become an almost inevitable part of life in our fast-paced, highpressure world. Stress can profoundly affect our overall well-being, whether work-related, personal, or environmental. While much attention is given to its impact on mental health, the physical manifestations of stress, particularly on skin and hair, are equally significant. Understanding how stress affects your skin and hair and how to mitigate these effects can be crucial for maintaining your health and appearance.
When we experience stress, our body goes into a fight-or-flight mode, releasing a surge of hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline. While these hormones are essential for short-term responses, chronic stress results in prolonged exposure to these chemicals, which can wreak havoc on various bodily systems, including the integumentary system—the skin and hair.
Cortisol and Its Effects
Cortisol, often called the stress hormone, plays a vital role in the body’s response to stress.
Elevated cortisol levels can increase oil production in skin glands, resulting in clogged pores and acne breakouts. Additionally, cortisol can break down collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm and supple, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and sagging.
Adrenaline, another hormone released during stress, affects the circulatory system. It can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the skin. This can lead to a dull complexion and impede the skin’s natural repair processes. Over time, reduced blood flow can contribute
to various skin conditions, including rosacea and eczema.
Acne and Breakouts
Stress-induced hormonal changes can trigger acne and exacerbate existing skin conditions. Cortisol increases oil production, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts when combined with dirt and dead skin cells. Stress can also trigger inflammation, aggravating acne and other inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis and rosacea.
Eczema and Psoriasis
Stress is a well-known trigger for eczema and psoriasis flare-ups. The immune system’s response to stress exacerbates these chronic inflammatory skin conditions. Stress can cause the skin to become more reactive and sensitive, leading to red, itchy, and inflamed patches that can be both painful and unsightly.
Chronic stress accelerates the aging process. High levels of cortisol can degrade collagen and elastin, essential proteins that maintain skin elasticity and firmness. This leads to developing fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Moreover, stress-induced oxidative stress produces free radicals that further damage skin cells, contributing to the signs of aging.
STRESS AND HAIR HEALTH
Hair Loss
One of the most noticeable effects of stress on hair is hair loss. Telogen effluvium is a condition where stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, causing hair to fall out more quickly. This hair loss usually occurs a few months after a stressful event and can result in noticeable thinning.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that can be triggered by severe stress. It results in round patches of hair loss on the scalp and other body parts. In some cases, it can progress to total hair loss. The exact mechanism is unclear, but it is believed that stress may trigger the immune system to attack hair follicles.
Stress affects hair’s overall quality. Chronic stress can decrease hair’s natural oil production, making it dry and brittle. Also, poor stress circulation can deprive hair follicles of essential nutrients, leading to weak and lackluster hair.
Skincare
Maintaining a consistent skincare routine is essential for mitigating the effects of stress on the skin. This includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting the skin from environmental stressors. Using products with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients can help
reduce inflammation and combat free radicals. Ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol can support collagen production and improve skin texture.
A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce stress and improve skin and hair health. Regular exercise helps release endorphins, which are natural stress relievers. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports overall health and enhances the skin’s ability to repair itself. Drinking plenty of water is also crucial for keeping the skin hydrated and flushing out toxins.
Implementing stress management techniques can have a profound impact on your overall well-being and, consequently, your skin and hair health. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels. Ensuring adequate sleep is also vital, as the body repairs and rejuvenates during rest.
For severe or persistent skin and hair issues related to stress, seeking professional help is recommended. Dermatologists can treat conditions like acne, eczema, and hair loss. Therapists and counselors can offer strategies for managing stress and addressing underlying psychological issues.
Incorporating natural remedies into your routine can also help mitigate the effects of stress. Essential oils like lavender and chamomile have calming properties that can reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Herbal teas such as chamomile and green tea can have soothing effects and provide antioxidants that benefit the skin.
Taking good care of your scalp is essential for healthy hair growth. Regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation and promote relaxation. Using gentle hair care products that do not strip the hair of its natural oils can prevent dryness and breakage. Avoiding excessive heat styling and chemical treatments can also help maintain hair health.
Stress is inevitable, but its impact on skin and hair health can be profound. Understanding the biological mechanisms behind stress and its effects on the integumentary system is crucial for taking proactive steps to mitigate these effects. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, adopting stress management techniques, and seeking professional help, you can protect your skin and hair from the damaging effects of stress and maintain a healthy, youthful appearance. ■
Dr. Osman is American boardcertified, fellow of Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland, completed fellowship in advanced laparoscopic bariatric surgery, has affiliation with Inova Fairfax Hospital and George Washington University Hospital.
The Turkish tech ecosystem has gained momentum, driven by a notable increase in venture capital investments and the rise of technology hubs in cities like İstanbul, Ankara, and İzmir.
By Esra Talu
As the world rapidly advances in technology and innovation, Türkiye stands at a pivotal juncture, uniquely positioned to make its mark on the global tech landscape. With a rich history of commerce and a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, Türkiye's advantages are unparalleled. This article explores the trends, government initiatives, and international partnerships driving Türkiye's tech growth and highlights how Turkish startups can position themselves as leaders in innovation.
The Turkish tech ecosystem has gained momentum, driven by several key trends. Firstly, there is a notable increase in venture capital investments. In recent years, Türkiye has attracted substantial VC funding, with a growing number of tech startups securing significant investment rounds. This influx of capital is fueling innovation and enabling startups to scale rapidly.
Secondly, the rise of technology hubs in cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir fosters a collaborative environment for tech entrepreneurs. These hubs provide access to resources,
mentorship, and networking opportunities, creating a fertile ground for innovation. Additionally, the proliferation of tech incubators and accelerators is helping startups navigate the challenges of early-stage development.
The Turkish government has recognized the importance of the tech sector and taken significant steps to support its growth. One of the most notable initiatives is the "National Technology Initiative," which aims to enhance Türkiye's technological capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign technology. This initiative
includes incentives for research and development, tax breaks for tech companies, and funding for innovation projects.
Moreover, the government invests in education and workforce development to ensure a steady tech talent pipeline. Programs to promote STEM education and partnerships with universities equip the next generation of innovators with the skills needed to thrive in the tech industry.
International partnerships play a crucial role in Türkiye's tech growth. Collaborations with global tech giants and participation in international tech conferences and expos are opening doors for Turkish startups and connecting them to a global community. These partnerships provide opportunities for knowledge exchange and capacity building, fostering a sense of shared progress in the tech industry.
For example, Türkiye's partnership with the European Union in the Horizon 2020 program has facilitated numerous research and innovation projects. Similarly, alliances with countries in the MENA region and beyond foster cross-border collaboration and expand Turkish tech companies' market reach.
Turkish startups must focus on several key strategies to capitalize on these trends and initiatives. Firstly, embracing cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things is not just a strategy but a call to action. It can set them apart in the competitive global market and inspire a new wave of innovation. Investing in R&D and staying ahead of technological advancements will be crucial in this journey.
Secondly, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship is essential. Startups should leverage the supportive ecosystem of tech hubs and accelerators to experiment, iterate, and scale their solutions. Building strong networks and seeking mentorship from successful entrepreneurs can provide valuable guidance and support.
Lastly, Turkish startups should prioritize
internationalization from the outset. By targeting global markets and forming strategic partnerships, they can scale their operations and gain a competitive edge. Participating in international tech events and leveraging Türkiye's strategic geographic location can facilitate this expansion.
Türkiye is on the brink of a technological renaissance, with the potential to become a global leader in the tech industry. Turkish startups can position themselves at the forefront of innovation by harnessing emerging trends,
leveraging government support, and forming international partnerships. The future is bright for Türkiye's tech landscape, and with strategic planning and bold ambition, Turkish startups can lead the charge into a new era of technological advancement. ■
Esra Talu is the Founder and CEO of GoGlobal, a boutique tech advisory firm based in Miami, USA. With extensive experience in the tech startup ecosystem, Esra is passionate about supporting tech entrepreneurs in achieving their growth and expansion goals. She has significantly contributed to the startup scenes in the USA, UK, Türkiye, Israel, and the MEA region.
The combination of fresh air, natural light, and the soothing sound of the sea creates an ideal environment for relaxation and stress relief.
By Burcin Ogrenir, PhD
In the background, Sertab’s song plays softly: *“Uzanmışım kumsala, Güneş damlar içime, Kurumuş dudaklarımda, Unutulmuş bir beste, Yaşıyorum aheste…. tatildeyim.”* The sun warms your face and body as you lay on the sand, a cold drink in your hand. You splash into the water, instantly cooling down. Suddenly, everything seems better, and everything seems possible. You start to wonder why you cannot live the rest of your life like this. As you look at the beautiful Mediterranean scenes around you, in Bodrum, Kuşadası, or elsewhere, you ask yourself: What is this? What is the healing power of the sun, sea, and sand that magically makes us feel better? If this is not your current reality, chances are it is one of the
happy places in your mind where you go during meditation.
There is something universally appealing about the sea, sun, and sand. These natural elements have drawn people for millennia, offering a break from routine and a healing retreat for both body and soul. Not only do countless research studies support this, but I have also seen firsthand how spending time by the sea can significantly enhance mental well-being. This article explores the science and spirituality behind why these elements benefit our psychology and overall health.
Sea air is unique. It is rich in negative ions, tiny, charged particles abundant in natural settings, especially near moving water like
oceans and waterfalls. Research suggests that these negative ions can boost serotonin levels, the neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and stress relief. Higher serotonin levels lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and greater well-being. In addition to the benefits of negative ions, sea air is also cleaner and less polluted than urban air. This purity helps our respiratory systems, improving lung function and oxygen absorption. Breathing in this fresh, ion-rich air can rejuvenate our bodies, providing a sense of energy and vitality and decreasing tension.
Walking barefoot on the sand, known as “earthing” or “grounding,” has several health benefits. The direct contact with the earth
Walking barefoot on the sand, known as "earthing" or "grounding," has several health benefits, including reducing inflammation, pain, and stress, and enhancing our immune system
allows us to absorb electrons from its surface, which act as antioxidants and can neutralize free radicals in our bodies. This process reduces inflammation, pain, and stress and enhances our immune system.
Moreover, walking on sand provides a natural exfoliation for our feet and promotes physical health by engaging less used muscles on flat, hard surfaces. This gentle exercise can improve circulation, strengthen the muscles, and aid in physical relaxation.
The Invigorating Power of Water
Water has always been associated with cleansing and renewal. The rhythmic sound of waves creates a meditative state that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation hence the countless water sound videos all over online. This phenomenon is known as “blue mind,” a mildly meditative state characterized by calmness, peacefulness, and general happiness and satisfaction with life.
Swimming in the sea has additional physical benefits. Saltwater is rich in minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iodine, which are absorbed through the skin and can aid in detoxification, improve skin conditions, and enhance overall health. Seawater's buoyancy also provides a low-impact environment for exercise, reducing strain on joints and muscles. Is this not a healing retreat in and of itself?
The Vitalizing Energy of the Sun
Sun exposure is crucial for synthesizing vitamin D, an essential nutrient for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Adequate vitamin D levels can reduce the risk of depression, enhance mood, and improve sleep patterns. Most people I encounter with depression do not have the necessary level of vitamin D to start with.
Beyond the physiological benefits, sunlight profoundly impacts our circadian rhythms. Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate our internal body clock, leading to better sleep quality and overall well-being. The warmth and brightness of
the sun can also boost endorphin production, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormones, contributing to a sense of happiness and relaxation.
When we are by the beach and look around the world, the sea, sun, and sand connect us to nature and remind us of the larger world beyond our daily lives. This connection can further foster a sense of awe, wonder, and humility, which are known to enhance psychological well-being. On some level you start to think the world is bigger and better than your worries or your small life. The expansive horizon of the sea can provide a sense of perspective, and embrace a broader, more serene outlook on life.
Spending time in these natural settings encourages mindfulness, allowing us to be present and fully experience the moment. This mindfulness can reduce rumination and anxiety, promoting a state of mental clarity and peace. The repetitive, rhythmic sounds of the waves, combined with the tactile sensations of sand and the visual beauty of the sea, create a multisensory experience that can ground us and enhance our overall sense of well-being. These are exactly what our bodies and soul crave to flourish.
People often report an immediate improvement in mood when they spend time by the
sea. This is not just anecdotal; scientific studies have shown that natural environments, particularly coastal settings, can significantly reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and the soothing sound of the sea creates an ideal environment for relaxation and stress relief.
Furthermore, the social aspect of beach outings—whether spent with family, friends, or even in solitary contemplation—provides emotional support and strengthens social bonds, which are crucial for mental health. Are you feeling it yet? From the physical benefits of negative ions and vitamin D to the psychological and spiritual rejuvenation nature offers, spending time by the sea is an effective way to enhance our mental and physical health. I wish living by the sea was not a luxury for most or just a break from our routines but a lifestyle choice for healthier well-being inside and out. ■
Dr Burcin Ogrenir, a Family and Parenting Coach and the Director of April Institute, specializes in child development, personal growth, family dynamics, and education. She pursued her graduate studies in Clinical Psychology and Early Childhood Education from Penn State University. As a former Assistant Professor at the City University of New York, her influence reached international audiences through her teaching and scholarly presentations. Dr Ogrenir's mission centers on serving diverse populations, making knowledge in child development, family relationships, and personal wellbeing accessible to all.
Stay ahead in the fast-paced tech world with these essential tools for creativity and productivity.
By Sitki Kazanci
Staying ahead of the curve is essential in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. To help you navigate this dynamic environment, I have curated a list of the best tools available. Whether you are a developer, designer, writer, or creative professional, these tools will enhance your productivity and efficiency. You might want to keep this list handy for future reference.
1. Solution Assistant: ChatGPT
ChatGPT is an AI-powered assistant that can help you solve problems, brainstorm ideas, and streamline your workflow.
2. Copywriting: WriteSonic
WriteSonic leverages AI to generate compelling and engaging copy for your marketing, social media, and content needs.
3. Image Creation: Midjourney
Midjourney uses advanced algorithms to create stunning and unique images, perfect for any creative project.
4. Code Writing: GitHub Copilot
GitHub Copilot is an AI-powered coding assistant that helps you write better code faster by suggesting lines or blocks of code.
5. Video Production: Synthesia
Synthesia allows you to create professional-quality videos with AI avatars, making video production more accessible and efficient.
6. Music Production: Soundraw
Soundraw uses AI to generate unique music tracks tailored to your specifications, ideal for videos, games, and other media.
7. Photo Editing: Remini
Remini enhances and restores old or low-quality photos using advanced AI technology, bringing new life to your images.
8. Video Editing: Pictory
Pictory simplifies video editing with AI-driven tools that help you create engaging videos quickly and easily.
9. Text Summarization: Wordtune
Wordtune helps you summarize and rephrase text, making creating clear and concise content easier.
10. Presentation Preparation: Gamma App
Gamma App offers AI-powered tools to create visually appealing and effective presentations effortlessly.
11. Research Assistant: SciSpace Copilot
SciSpace Copilot assists with research by providing insights, summarizing papers, and suggesting relevant literature.
12. Translation: DeepL
DeepL is renowned for its high-quality translations, making it an invaluable tool for breaking language barriers.
13. CV Preparation: KickResume
KickResume helps you create professional and eye-catching CVs and resumes with ease.
14. Website Creation: Durable
Durable offers an intuitive platform for building and managing websites without needing extensive coding knowledge.
15. PDF Q&A: ChatPDF
ChatPDF allows you to interact with PDF documents, making extracting information and finding answers easier.
16. Design Assistant: Uizard
Uizard helps you create app and web designs using AI, streamlining the design process.
17. Character Creation: Renderforest AI
Renderforest AI offers tools for creating detailed and dynamic characters for games, videos, and more.
18. 4K Video Creation: PixVerse
PixVerse enables you to produce high-quality 4K videos, enhancing the visual impact of your content.
19. Chatbot Creation: Dante AI
Dante AI provides a platform for creating intelligent chatbots to improve customer interaction and service.
20. Dubbing Addition: Rask AI
Rask AI makes adding dubbing to your videos easy, supports multiple languages, and enhances accessibility.
These tools are designed to keep you ahead in the fast-paced world of technology. Keep this list handy—you never know when you might need it. ■
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Beans are now one of the most essential legumes in Türkiye, prized for their high protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them a staple in dishes like the traditional Kuru Fasülye, a beloved Turkish white bean stew.
By Ercument Akman
Türkiye sits on top of the Fertile Crescent, home of the “Eight Founder Crops,” the original domesticated plants some 11,000–10,000 years ago. These are four legumes (lentil, pea, chickpea, and bitter vetch related to fava beans); three cereals (einkorn wheat, emmer wheat, and barley); and one oil and fiber crop (flax or linseed). However, the American bean varieties were nowhere in sight for millennia in this area.
New World beans were domesticated in the mountains of Peru and a central basin of Mexico. European colonists observed the domestication history of the common bean as one of the "three sisters” planted with maize and squash by Native Americans.
The common bean reached Europe in the
late Middle Ages and was only introduced to Ottoman cuisine at the beginning of the 18th century. The new legume spread rapidly and became one of the most popular food varieties, reaching national status in 200 years. Long-established cultural icons like chickpeas, peas, lentils, and broad beans of Mediterranean gastronomy took a back seat to the common bean. Egyptians called it Fasolia, and Greeks Fasolakia, so for the Turk, it was Fasülye.
Beans today are one of the most essential legumes (baklagiller) in Türkiye because of their high concentrations of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Dried beans are white and kidney-shaped and can be bought as canned or frozen. Although beans have little flavor, they are great at absorbing other flavors, making them a staple in soups, cassoulets, and bean salads.
During the Ottoman times, the neighborhood bakeries were not only responsible for making bread. They also provided cooking in terracotta (clay) pots since access to stone pits or stone ovens was outside the means of common people. Traditional juicy dishes were baked in these bakeries at a small cost. Kuru Fasülye, the Turkish white bean stew, is probably the most famous baked dish of late Ottoman cuisine.
The small market eateries called Esnaf Lokantası in Türkiye offer many dishes to the local tradesman, and Kuru Fasülye is their central pillar.
If you make Kuru Fasülye in the summer months, do so without meat. The meaty version, Etli Kuru Fasülye (with meat), feels more wholesome for the winter months. For authenticity, baking in a clay pot is the best method; however, the recipe works on a cooktop in a heavy pot.
Ingredients
◗ 2 cups white beans
◗ 1 lb. diced lamb (boneless) or minced meat
◗ 1 onion diced
◗ 2 garlic cloves peeled and sliced
◗ 2 long green peppers sliced
◗ 2 tomatoes peeled and chopped
◗ 6 cups hot water
◗ 4 tbsp butter
◗ 1 tbsp tomato paste
◗ 1 tbsp pepper paste
◗ 1 teaspoon salt
◗ ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Soak the white beans overnight (12 hours) in salted cold water.
Put the terracotta (clay) cooking pot into the oven and preheat the oven to 170C (340F).
Rinse the beans well and put them into a saucepan, adding enough water to cover the beans, and boil (about 35 minutes) until they become tender. Drain and set it aside.
Put the butter, diced onions, sliced garlic cloves, and long green peppers into a saucepan and cook until the onions are golden brown. Then add the lamb cubes and sauté until they are brown (about 5-8 minutes).
Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, pepper paste, black pepper, and salt, and stir well for about 5 minutes. Add the rinsed white beans and stir them all well. Make sure they all mix well, and then close the heat and set the saucepan aside.
Take out the heated terracotta (clay) cooking pot from the oven and put the white beans with lamb mix inside the terracotta (clay) cooking pot. add 6 cups of hot water into the clay pot and stir, then close the terracotta (clay) pot lid. Put the clay pot back in the oven and close the oven door.
Cook for 1 hour and serve.
Add Turkish pastirma (pastrami) about 10 minutes before you finish baking. Serve.
The other beans are still fighting. The word "bean" and its Germanic cognates (Bohne) were already common before the 12th century, referring to broad beans, chickpeas, and other pod-borne seeds of the legume family.
Türkiye is one of the leading producers of fresh broad beans. Broad beans or fava beans have long been a part of Mediterranean cuisine and the cuisine of the Middle East. They most likely originated in Western Asia before spreading outward to even Mexico and South America by Spanish explorers.
Broad beans can be grown in soils with high salinity and clay soils and are still often grown as a cover crop to prevent erosion because they can overwinter and fix nitrogen in the soil.
Lentils come in various colors and cook relatively quickly compared to many types of beans. With a long history dating back thousands of years, they are believed to be one of the first
crops cultivated by humans. Lentils are not beans, and they are botanically distinct from each other. However, they are both legumes and share some similarities.
As the world's second most widely grown legume after the soybean, chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are a significant staple among legumes in Middle Eastern, African, and Indian cuisines. The wild version of chickpeas is only found in southeastern Türkiye and Syria today, since their domestication during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period.
The black-eyed pea or black-eyed bean is a legume grown around the world for its medium-sized, edible bean, an Old-World plant domesticated in Africa; it has been grown in Virginia since the 17th century by African slaves who were brought back to America along with other indigenous plants from their homelands.
In his pioneering publication 50 Historic Turkish dishes, A. Süheyl Ünver mentions a börülce dish prepared as a casserole.
Today, in Türkiye, börülce salad and blanched black-eyed peas with dressing are the preferred and popular versions, and they are easy and quick to make.
First, finely chop two or three onions, fry them with a couple of spoons of clarified butter until golden brown, then add enough beans to the pot, cook them with the onions and water if you do not have any broth, and then boil them with enough oil. It is delicious and a great addition.
BÖRÜLCE SALAD Ingredients
For 5-6 people
◗ 3 cups boiled black-eyed peas
◗ ½ bunch of parsley
◗ ½ bunch of fresh mint
◗ 2-3 red peppers
◗ 1 yellow pepper
◗ 2 tablespoons pomegranate syrup
◗ ½ lemon juice
◗ 5-6 tablespoons olive oil
◗ Salt.
Add enough water to cover your black-eyed peas the night before and let them sit. In the morning, pour off the remaining water and put it in a pot. Add water to cover them with two fingers and boil.
When the black-eyed peas are boiled and cooled, chop the other ingredients into small pieces and combine them with the black-eyed peas.
Add the sauce.
Alternately, add any or all of these ingredients.
◗ ½ bunch of dill
◗ 15-20 pickled gherkins
◗ 1-2 handfuls of walnuts
Serve and enjoy.
And... this is how you Eat Like a Turk. ■
Ercüment Akman was born in Istanbul. He studied architecture at the Academy of Fine Arts, Fındıklı, and pursued postgraduate studies in Urban and Regional Planning at the Technical University, Taşkışla. He worked for the Turkish Film Archives and was a film critic for national newspapers. After moving to Canada in 1978 and later to the US, he worked as an architect and served as an independent film curator. He continues to lecture on cultural issues and writes for the Turkish Cinema Newsletter Now retired from corporate architecture, he is focusing on various book projects.
Türkiye has rapidly become a global education center, with international student numbers soaring from 18,000 in 2000 to over 350,000 from 198 countries by 2024, placing Türkiye among the top 10 countries in the world for international students.
By Fatih Yardimcioglu
In recent years, Türkiye has become a shining country where international students want to study and a global education center in higher education. While there were approximately 18,000 registered international students in Türkiye in 2000, by 2024, the number of international students exceeds 350,000 from 198 countries. The ratio of international students to university students puts Türkiye among the top 10 countries in the world. Türkiye aims to be among the top 5 in the world in terms of the number of international students. For this purpose, many steps
have been taken toward internationalization in recent years.
This series of articles aims to introduce the Turkish higher education system for international students. Firstly, general information about the higher education system of Türkiye will be given (What). Secondly, the main reasons for studying in Türkiye will be explained (Why). Thirdly, information about the application process of international students to universities, university fees, scholarship opportunities, university life in Türkiye, and the global recognition of universities will be provided (How). Finally, some of Türkiye's best universities will be introduced (Where).
UNDERSTANDING THE TURKISH HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM
GENERAL STRUCTURE OF THE TURKISH HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM
In 1981, by the new Higher Education Law (No. 2547 ), the higher education administration in Türkiye was comprehensively restructured. The system became centralized, with all higher education institutions tied to the Council of Higher Education (CoHE). After this restructuring, all institutions of higher education were designed as universities. Expansion of higher education throughout the country was achieved, application
to higher education was centralized, and a central university exam and placement were introduced. This central exam and placement system is managed by ÖSYM . In addition to public universities, the first nonprofit foundation university in Türkiye started to provide education for students in 1986.
Since 2012, compulsory education in Türkiye has lasted 12 years and is divided into three stages (primary, elementary, and secondary education ).
Pre-primary School Education: It involves the education of children in the age group of 3 to 5 who have yet to reach the age of compulsory primary education on an optional basis.
Primary Education: It involves educating and training children aged 6 to 10. It is compulsory for all citizens and free at State schools and lasts four years (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th grades).
Elementary Education: It involves educating and training children aged 10 to 14. Elementary education is compulsory for all citizens. It is free at the State schools and lasts four years (5th, 6th, 7th, 8th grades). Toward the end of elementary school, pupils are given information about general, vocational, and technical high schools and the kinds of employment they are prepared for.
Secondary Education: It comprises high schools of a general, vocational, and/or technical character, which offer four-year courses
Source: https://www.studyinturkiye.gov.tr/
for children aged 14 to 17 (9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grades). Secondary education is compulsory for all citizens and is free at State schools.
Higher Education: After graduating high school, students can enroll in higher education, compatible with the Bologna three-cycle system.
Faculty (College): A division conducting higher education, scholarly research, and publication. Various departments and programs may be connected to it. Students earn a bachelor’s degree at the end of an educational program lasting at least four years.
Graduate School: A university institution concerned with graduate education, scholarly research, and applications. Graduate schools award MA, MSc, or PhD degrees.
4-year School: An institution of higher education that lasts eight semesters and is mainly concerned with providing instruction for a specific profession.
Conservatory: An institution of higher education where artists are trained in music and the performing arts. It lasts for eight semesters.
Post-Secondary Vocational School: An institution of higher education aimed at training human capacity in specific professions and providing instruction lasting four semesters. Research and Application Center: An institution of higher education carrying out research and applied studies to meet the applied study needs of various areas, provide preparatory and support activities for different professional areas, and support education in higher education institutions.
Associate's degree (short cycle): Awarded on completing a two-year study program. The associate degree programs are offered by universities and foundation postsecondary vocational schools. Some distance education programs are also available. The associate
degree programs may require a period of onthe-job training.
Bachelor's degree (1st cycle): Awarded after completing a four-year course and 240 ECTS of study. The study duration for dentistry, veterinary medicine, and pharmacy is five years, and that of medicine is six years. These four fields' qualifications are equivalent to a master’s degree.
Master's degree program (2nd cycle): Twoyear program leading to the Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Sciences (MS). There are two kinds of master’s programs, with or without a thesis. The master’s with thesis program is a two-year program generally consisting of courses with a minimum of 120 ECTS followed by submission of a thesis. Non-thesis programs are to be completed in one or one and a half years and call for completing graduate courses of a minimum of 90 credits and a term project.
Doctoral degree program (3rd cycle): Usually an eight-semester program leading to the PhD degree. It consists of courses with 180-240 ECTS, a proficiency exam, a dissertation proposal, a dissertation, and its oral defense. After completing the coursework and the proficiency exam, students must submit and defend the dissertation orally before an examining committee.
Specialization in Medicine Programs: These are equivalent to doctoral degree programs and are carried out in the faculties of medicine, university hospitals, and research and training hospitals. For the specialization in medicine, there is a competitive selection examination in various branches of medicine for those graduating from the faculties of medicine. Specialist candidates must submit a dissertation and defend it before an examining committee.
Proficiency in Art: It is at least a six-semester post-master’s program in the visual and performing arts branches, equivalent to a doctorate. It requires presenting an original work of art or (in music and the performing arts) a superior, creative performance.
International students who wish to undertake their undergraduate studies in Türkiye must have completed their secondary education in a high school or similar institution. The education is equivalent to that of a Turkish high school. They can apply to the university of their choice with the YÖS examination or internationally valid exams scores accepted by universities. They apply directly by their score to the university of their choice, and the university selects them.
International students who wish to pursue their graduate/post-graduate studies in Türkiye also apply directly to the universities, which set their own admissions requirements. There are also various scholarship options, which are available for some international students.
Tuition fees are applied differently in public and nonprofit foundation universities. In public universities, the Presidencia Decree decides and announces tuition fees, considering the type and duration of study in different disciplines. In nonprofit foundation universities, on the other hand, tuition fees are decided by the university's Board of Trustees.
Students must pay their tuition fees each semester before registering for the courses at the beginning of that semester. In public
and nonprofit foundation universities, a certain percentage of the students admitted to the university are given diverse scholarships. These scholarships may be full or partial tuition waivers or merit or support scholarships. These scholarships may meet academic materials, accommodation, food and beverages, and specific allowances. In addition to this support, student assistantships and research fellowships are other kinds of support that could be helpful during the study in Türkiye. ■
Note: This article was prepared using the www.studyinturkiye.gov.tr website. For detailed information, please click here.
Reference:
1. For more detailed information, click here.
2. Higher education system is managed by Council of Higher Education (YÖK) (https://www.yok.gov.tr/en)
3. For more detailed information, click here.
4. These are managed by Republic of Türkiye Ministry of National Education (MEB) (https://www.meb.gov.tr/en/)
5. For more detailed information, click here.
6. For more detailed information, click here.
7. The TR YÖS Examination (Turkish: Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı) is an entrance examination designed for foreign students who wish to enroll in higher education institutions in Türkiye. For more detailed information, click here.
8. Like SAT 1 “Scholastic Assessment Test”, ACT “American College Testing”, IB “International Baccalaureate”
9. A detailed article on these sections will be published in subsequent issues.
10. A detailed article on these sections will be published in subsequent issues.
Prof. Fatih Yardimcioglu, born in Sakarya, Türkiye in 1979, completed his doctorate at Sakarya University in 2012 with a thesis on “The Relationship between Education Expenditures, Economic Growth, and Income Distribution.” He conducted doctoral research at Durham University, England, from 2010 to 2012.
He served as Deputy Director of Sakarya University Social Sciences Institute (2013-2016) and the Islamic Economics and Finance Application and Research Center (2016). Yardimcioglu worked as a consultant at the National Defense University (2017-2018) and Sakarya University (2018-2022). He directed Sakarya University Continuing Education Research and Application Center (2018-2022) and Economic Enterprises (2019-2023).
He served on various university boards and was Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences (2019-2023). He participated in arbitration for the 5th, 6th, and 7th Term Collective Agreement negotiations in 2019, 2021, and 2023. In November 2023, he was appointed Education Attaché at the Turkish Consulate General in Chicago. Prof. Yardimcioglu is married and has three children.
The World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago brought to light a colorful figure, Far Away Moses, whose fame grew exponentially after Mark Twain’s book
By Mehmet Ali Munir
The World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago was one of the most recorded events of its time and deserves a second look this month at a colorful figure and his company. We will conclude with a third installment dedicated to the “Wild East Show,” their fantastic success, followed by their sad fate next month.
Far Away Moses
Preparations were underway in the early 1890s for the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago while the Library of Congress’s Jefferson Building was built. A Semitic head based on Far Away Moses appeared. He was at least 60 years old, and sculptors seem to have opted for an age somewhere between that and the engravings that showed him in his 30s in Mark Twain’s book Innocents Abroad , published in 1869. The tour guide’s fame grew exponentially.
“But attracting more attention than anything else in the village is a small, white-bearded man whom Mark Twain introduced to the world many years ago. It is related in Innocents Abroad how the author selected him for his guide through Constantinople's narrow, tortuous streets. Although he could speak English, the man was rather of a taciturn mood, and Twain was so interested in what he saw that he did not care to talk. Finally, after they had traveled together, the latter asked the guide his name. ‘Moses,’ was the reply. Now, having always lived in Constantinople, Moses was not especially interested in its sights, and while Twain would be standing before some gorgeous mosque or bazaar, as though rooted with the intensity
of admiration, his guide would keep plodding on. The humorist was so often distanced in this unequal contest that he dubbed him ‘far-away Moses,’ thus, he was recognized by thousands who visited the Plaisance.” 1
Appointed by President Benjamin Harrison, Cyrus Adler2 left the United States in November 1890 as the Special Commissioner to the Orient for the Exposition in Chicago. He toured the countries of the region for three years. In Constantinople, Adler worked with Tevfik Hasan Pasha, Minister of Commerce and Public Works, who acted as an intermediary to Sultan Abdul Hamid II in matters concerning the fair.3
Once the Sultan agreed to participate in the World's Columbian Exposition, the Ottoman fair commission prepared newspaper announcements inviting Ottoman subjects to display their products either in the official national building or in thematic buildings on the Midway Plaza.
Those who wished to do so needed to submit their projects for approval to the Ottoman commissioners. The contracts for both the Turkish national building and the Ottoman village on the Midway Plaisance were given to the firm of Elias Souhami Sadullah and Company. The company's junior partner,
Robert Levy, oversaw several other Ottoman concessions at the Exposition.
The contract between the World's Columbian Exposition Company and the Elias Souhami Sadullah Company for a "Street Scene in Constantinople" defined the lease terms and the land tract's size and location. Exclusive right was given to sell the "wares and manufactures of Türkiye in Europe and Türkiye in Asia, including Syria.
The Elias Souhami Sadullah Company‘s French language letterhead, including medals won in previous exhibitions, was initially established to sell traditional “oriental” goods in the main bazaar of Istanbul by the Jewish
Elias Souhami Sadullah and Company’s "Street Scene in Constantinople" at the Exposition became a major attraction, with Ottoman and Jewish merchants captivating visitors on the Midway Plaisance.
merchant Elia Souhami and his Muslim partner, Sadullah Bey, to capitalize on Moses’s fame. They made him a manager of their shop and called the business “Far Away Moses and Company” in the 1870s.
Moses initially traveled to establish shop branches in Cairo and other parts of the Empire. By 1876, he had traveled to the United States and spent much of the next decade establishing Far Away Moses shops in cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago.
Far Away Moses returned to the United States in 1892 or 1893 to set up for the Exposition. He was widely regarded as one of the celebrities of the “Midway Plaisance,” the main thoroughfare of the Exposition. After the Expo, he returned home to Istanbul and resumed his life as a merchant and guide, eventually disappearing from travelers’ accounts.
About four-fifths of the inhabitants of the Turkish village on the Midway Plaisance at the Chicago Exposition were Jews from the Empire as—merchants, clerks, actors, servants, musicians, and even the dancing girls.
“Streets of Constantinople” was silent on Sabath and especially on Yom Kippur when the mosque on the village was dedicated for prayers as a synagogue to the amazement of visiting Americans.
A dispatch says that Ibrahim Hakki Effendi, the Turkish commissioner to the Chicago Columbian Exposition, returned from the United States with liberal ideas, and his recent lectures delivered in the law school in Istanbul caused a great stir in government circles. Edison wax cylinder recordings were made of Syrian and other Ottoman musicians and
singers toward the end of the fair. This critical group of recordings, thought to be some of the oldest recorded examples of Middle Eastern music in existence, is in the archives of the Library of Congress.
These cylinders are surviving evidence of possibly the oldest Ottoman recordings in the United States and are just a part of the tangible evidence of the appearance of Ahmed Al-Qabbani and his performance troupe in the Turkish Odeon Theater on the Plaisance in 1893. ■
NOTES:
1. retold by Hubert Howe Bancroft on pages 857-858 of The Book of the Fair, his account of the 1893 exposition.
2. During several visits to Constantinople, I became very interested in the tales told in the coffee houses. These are usually little more than rooms, with walls made of small panes of glass. The furniture consists of a tripod with a contrivance for holding the kettle and a fire to keep the coffee boiling. A carpeted bench traverses the entire length of the room. Turbaned Turks occupy this, their legs folded under them, smoking nargilehs or chibooks or cigarettes and sipping coffee. A few will be engaged in a game of backgammon, but the majority enter the conversation, initially only in syllables, gradually giving rise to a general discussion. Finally, some sage of the neighborhood comes in, and the company appeals to him to settle the point at issue. He usually does this by telling a story to illustrate his opinion. Some of the stories told on these occasions are adaptations of those already known in Arabic and Persian literature. Still, the Turkish mind gives them a new setting and a peculiar philosophy. They are characteristic of the people's habits, customs, and methods of thought and, for this reason, seem worthy of preservation. Listen in: https://archive.org/details/ told_in_the_coffee_house_1508_librivox
3. Adler was an editor of the Jewish Encyclopedia and, based on his experiences in Istanbul, wrote Tales Told in a Coffee House (1898) in collaboration with Allen Ramsay. At the end of World War I, he participated in the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, which convened without uninviting the Ottoman State.
In 1893, back in Baltimore, Adler lectured on his marvelous tour of Türkiye, the Holy Land, Egypt, Tunis, Algiers and Morocco.
SOURCES:
Middle East Theatrical Art at The World's Columbian Exposition: The Turkish Odeon Theater by Kathleen Cantone, ktcantone@ gmail.com
Diwan: A Forum for the Arts Arab American National Museum Dearborn, Michigan USA March 31, 2006
The Faith of Far Away Moses: Yom Kippur, 1893 https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2016/10/ the-faith-of-far-away-moses-yom-kippur-1893/
Mehmet Ali Munir is a Balkan Turk who has lived in Canada and the US for 45 years. He researches Turks in America and writes about local history.
sk@studiocreativeedge.com
Polar regions, often likened to the Earth’s refrigerators, play a crucial role in regulating the climate system on a global scale by influencing ocean currents and temperatures.
By Burcu Özsoy, Atilla Yilmaz
Despite being thousands of kilometers away from us, the polar regions are of close interest to everyone worldwide. This is, unfortunately, better understood nowadays, as we are witnessing the impacts of global climate change all around the globe. Polar regions, often likened to the Earth’s refrigerators, play a crucial role in regulating the climate system on a global scale by influencing the ocean currents and temperatures. Moreover, the data acquired from these regions offer invaluable information about the planet's past while also hosting research that sheds light on our future.
Since the 1960s, Turkish scientists have been engaged in polar research through individual initiatives. In these studies, researchers generally carried out their work in Antarctica at stations and vessels of other countries' programs. In 2015, the Polar Research Center (ITU PolReC) was established under Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ) as the first institutional entity in Türkiye related to polar research, with the competencies and know-how gained by Professor Dr Burcu Özsoy during her PhD studies in the USA, with the support of the dean of ITU Maritime Faculty Professor Dr Nil Güler, and with the tendency to create an umbrella organization needed by other relevant stakeholders. Türkiye’s first initiative on a national
scale was realized in 2016 with a joint Antarctic expedition with Ukraine.
The national polar research activities gained great momentum as the activities were placed under the auspices of the presidency, and the first Turkish Antarctic Expedition (TAE) was organized in 2017. Polar research activities, which progressively developed with the expeditions carried out in the subsequent years, have been carried out by the Polar Research Institute, which was established within TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center at the end of 2019, serving as a focal point for national polar research activities.
Through annual project calls and collaborations with public institutions, researchers are
supported and able to conduct research in both polar regions. Up to date, eight expeditions have been organized to Antarctica and three to the Arctic, and more than 100 scientists have had the opportunity to work in these challenging regions. As an outcome of these studies, scientific articles continue to be published in reputable international scientific journals, contributing to the literature on polar sciences.
As Türkiye, we are trying to contribute to solving global challenges, especially climate change, in the scientific arena through the research we conduct in the polar regions. In addition, through cooperation, we carry out logistical and scientific collaborations with other countries' programs in Antarctica, a continent dedicated to peace and science. In this way, Turkish researchers can conduct research in different regions of Antarctica while reducing costs and carbon footprint through joint logistics activities.
At the annual Turkish Polar Sciences Symposiums, scientists who are interested in polar research and who have carried out their studies in these regions meet and share the findings of their studies and exchange ideas on the different studies that can be carried out in the future. In addition, a large number of education and outreach activities are carried out for all ages in order to increase the knowledge and awareness in the public about the polar regions and global climate change.
Türkiye intends to continue scientific research in the Arctic, one of the regions most affected by global climate change, and Antarctica, a continent dedicated to peace and science, in a spirit of cooperation. We aim to increase the quantity and quality of the outputs to be produced from these regions every year, and to improve our experience and infrastructure in order to contribute significantly to the polar sciences literature and thus shed light on the future of our planet. ■
Prof Burcu Özsoy, a graduate of the Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering department of Yıldız Technical University, conducted her PhD studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) on sea ice-climate change interaction. She led and coordinated several Turkish polar scientific expeditions since 2017. She is the founding director of the Polar Research Center (PolReC) at Istanbul Technical University and the Polar Research Institute of TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center (MAM). She currently serves as TÜBİTAK MAM's president and the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) vice president.
Dr Atilla Yılmaz graduated from the Shipbuilding and Ocean Engineering Department of Istanbul Technical University in 2008. During his master's and PhD programs, he focused on marine pollution research. Currently serving as a chief researcher at TÜBİTAK MAM Polar Research Institute, Dr Yılmaz is involved in coordinating and implementing environmental legislation for Turkish polar research activities and environmental monitoring studies to determine anthropogenic impacts in polar regions.
Atatürk’s vision for a culturally rich republic is evident in Türkiye’s flourishing opera scene, which began with his encouragement of polyphonic music and support for the arts, leading to today’s celebrated International Istanbul Opera and Ballet Festival.
By Erol Güler
The 15th International Istanbul Opera and Ballet Festival started on June 1 with the opera "The Flying Dutchman," staged by the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet at the Atatürk Cultural Center—Atatürk Kültür Merkezi (AKM). The Flying Dutchman is Richard Wagner's masterpiece. The work was staged by the famous German Director Sebastian Welker. Dutch baritone Martijn Sanders stars in the leading role as Der Holländer.
Along with the Dutch baritone Martijn Sanders, Soprano Perihan Diana Nayır Artan plays Senta, Göktuğ Alpaşar plays Daland, Hüseyin Likos plays Erik, Deniz Erdoğan Likos plays Mary, and Yoel Vahram Keşap plays Steuermann. İbrahim Yazıcı conducts the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet orchestra, Volkan Akkoç conducts the choir, and Emre Karaca prepared the choreography.
Before the performance, the Director of the State Opera and Ballet Tan Sağtürk stated in his opening speech that the famous opera of Wagner was first staged by the Istanbul Opera and Ballet in 1992 in Istanbul and at that time the director of the "The Flying Dutchman"
was the director of the Bonn Opera. Zehra Yıldız played the lead female role Senta in the play. The director of the Bonn opera was impressed by her performance and invited her to perform in the role as Senta in the opera "The Flying Dutchman" in the 1995-96 season in Germany. Zehra Yıldız was named one of the most successful artists of the year in the famous Opern Welt magazine for her performance. Unfortunately she passed away at a very young age. Tan Sağtürk showed a small section of her performance as Senta.
The success of many other Turkish opera singers in the international arena was a sign that the Turks have made great advancement in the arts and have gained recognition globally. And this was only possible with the great vision of our founding father Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Atatürk and the Opera
Atatürk not only founded the republic, but he was the visionary in every aspect of the new republic. It is nowadays known that in the Ottoman Empire, the Sultans starting as early as with III. Selim (1789-1807) invited opera performers from Europe and enjoyed the music
and performances. This trend continued with II. Mahmut, Abdülaziz and II. Abdülhamit who all showed personal interest in Opera. However, unfortunately, they kept this interest only within the walls of the palace and never considered it to be introduced to the people.
Since Atatürk knew that polyphonic music elevates people to a higher level both spiritually and intellectually, he wanted this musical style to become widespread within the Turkish nation.
The famous Turkish historian Sinan Meydan has written an article in the Turkish daily newspaper Cumhuriyet about Atatürk and Opera. The following text has been summarized and translated from that article
Sinan Meydan States: "The following words belong to Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye: 'Ideas and revolutions spread through art.', "What a shame for the nations that cannot succeed in fine arts. Despite all their achievements, they will always be deprived of being recognized as high humanity in the field of civilization.', 'Some pillars are required to keep a nation alive, and one of the most important pillars is art. A nation cannot live a full life without art and artists.
Without art, it is like one of the nation's lifebloods is cut off.'"
Atatürk emphasized all branches of art, from painting to sculpture, from music to theatre. He invited world-famous artists to Türkiye, opened art schools, passed laws encouraging art, and ensured that artists were trained and the public was introduced to art. Within this general trend, Atatürk very much wanted opera, which brings together music, theater, and dance, among other arts, to develop and become widespread in Türkiye.
The year is 1914, the place is Sofia, the season is winter. Mustafa Kemal is on duty in Sofia as a military attaché. Mustafa Kemal, who learned that the first opera house would be opened in Sofia, was very surprised. “So Bulgarians also have operas and the performers who can take part in the opera," he thinks. He immediately starts looking for tickets for the first performance. He finds a place in the opera thanks to Şakir (Zümre), one of the Turkish MPs in the Bulgarian Parliament. They go to the premiere with his friend Ali Fethi (Okyar), who is an ambassador in Sofia. That night the famous "Carmen" is played. Late that night, Mustafa Kemal says the following to his friend Şakir Zümre: “Now I better understand the reason for our defeat in the Balkan War. I knew these men as shepherds. However, look, they even have operas. The stage artists, musicians and decorators who will play in the opera are all trained. They even built
an opera house..." After thinking for a while, he dreams: "I wonder if our country will see the day when it will have an opera house? Will we be able to reach that level one day?”
Atatürk had commissioned a Turkish opera in 1934. Münir Hayri Egeli writes: “Atatürk called me and said: "Turks and Iranians are brothers in lineage and culture. Write a play that shows that these two brothers, who were separated from each other only because of a sectarian struggle, are actually one, and let's have it performed as an opera..." The opera's libretto was written by Münir Hayri Egeli, and its composition was prepared by Ahmet Adnan Saygun. “Özsoy Opera” emerged in a very short time. The Özsoy Opera was adapted from various epics and especially Firdevsi's "Şehname," and the roots of Turkish-Iranian civilizations are emphasized. The main character Hakan Feridun has twin sons named Tur (Wolf) and İraç (Lion). Feridun, calls the brothers who parted ways to unite under the same flag. This union symbolizes TurkishIranian friendship. Atatürk had instructed to prepare this opera about Turkish-Iranian friendship, but it was not easy to perform this opera in the 1930s, when there was no opera and ballet in Türkiye. At that time, there was only the Music Teacher's School in Ankara. Soloists and chorus have been chosen from the students there. Also needed were ballet
dancers and ballerinas. For this purpose, students receiving dance training in Community Centers were used. Özsoy Opera was performed for the first time on June 19, 1934, at the Ankara Community Center in the presence of President Atatürk and his guest, Shah of Iran Rıza Pehlevi. Atatürk wanted to show the "nationalizing" and "contemporary" Türkiye by explaining the historical and cultural foundations of Turkish-Iranian friendship to the Shah of Iran through contemporary art: opera.
On December 27, 1934, artists were asked to prepare an opera to be exhibited, in memory of the 15th anniversary of Atatürk's arrival in Ankara. Münir Hayri and Adnan Saygun prepared the "Taşbebek Opera," and Münir Hayri and Necil Kazım Akses prepared the "Bayönder Opera." After both operas were completed, they were presented to Atatürk. Atatürk, like a dramaturg, personally read these operas and made some suggestions. For example, in "Taşbebek Opera," Atatürk scribbled with his handwriting among the lines in which one of the characters script states: "I do not believe in women, women should be loved as an ornament from afar." "We do not think like that about women. Women's existence is the foundation of the nation. The idea of considering women as ornaments is no longer correct. It must change..." Again, in the same opera, Atatürk crossed out the sentence "Love is entertainment" and wrote, "Considering love as entertainment means not taking it seriously." Atatürk was also interested in the names mentioned in the text and suggested some other names. Atatürk also personally dictated to Münir Hayri some parts of the "Bayönder Opera."
Immediately after Turkish Republic was founded, the Music Teacher's School was established in Ankara in 1924. In 1925, 10 students were sent to Paris, Berlin, Budapest and Prague to train artists and music teachers through competitive exams. Founded in 1917, Darülelhan was transformed into Istanbul Municipal Conservatory in 1926. Between 1928 and 1930, books on the basic theory of polyphonic music were published. Polyphonic
music tried to spread throughout the country with the Community Centers established since 1932. Atatürk invited Max Reinhardt, Paul Hindemith, and Carl Ebert to Türkiye in the 1930s to establish opera and theater in Türkiye. Reinhardt emphasized polyphonic music in the report he prepared and presented to Atatürk. After reading this report, Atatürk wrote on one side of the report, "Let's keep this report as a basis." Atatürk wanted Soviet Russian artists to come to Türkiye and give concerts on the 10th anniversary of the Republic. Famous Russian artists came to Ankara and gave concerts. Paul Hindemith founded the Ankara State Conservatory in 1936. An opera department was also opened here. The department started education in the 1936-7 academic year with 5 female and 11 male students. Ebert, who was appointed as Theater and Opera Affairs Expert at the Ministry of Education, made a lot of effort to establish the opera department at Ankara State Conservatory. In 1940, Ankara State Conservatory was divided into two: "music" and "performance." The performance section was divided into three groups: "opera," "theatre," and "ballet." Ankara State Conservatory had its first graduates in 1941. That year, operas began to be performed in Turkish by Turkish students. The first performance of the opera students was W. A. Mozart's one-act opera "Bastien und Bastienne" and the second act of Puccini's "Madame Butterfly," which they performed at the Ankara Community Center Stage on June 24, 1941. These plays were followed by other plays by world-famous composers. The second President İsmet İnönü also made great efforts to develop polyphonic music and opera in Türkiye. The State Theater and Opera was founded in 1949. All these efforts were not in vain. Turkish artists were trained. For example, Ahmet Adnan Saygun's works were also exhibited abroad. The Turkish premiere of Saygun's "Yunus Emre Oratorio" was held in 1946, the French premiere was in 1947, and the US premiere was in 1958. In addition, Turkish opera singers such as Leyla Gencer and Ferhat Onat among many others also appeared on European stages.
To conclude: The truth is that the Republic founded by Atatürk 100 years ago, who valued art and artists and worked to develop polyphonic music and opera, is today reaping the fruits of these efforts. ■
RAISED FROM ITS ASHES EVERY TIME LIKE A PHOENIX AND BECAME AN ANCHOR AND SYMBOL OF THE PERFORMING ARTS IN TÜRKİYE
AKM has an impressive story in itself worth remembering, because it goes almost parallel to the struggle of Turkish people to reach the contemporary culture in arts and science. The building's plans were drawn by architects Feridun Kip and Rüknettin Güney, and the foundation was laid on May 29, 1946. However, it could not be completed due to lack of funds, and was transferred to the Ministry of Public Works in 1953. The construction continued with the project of architect Hayati Tabanlıoğlu. The building was put into service on April 12, 1969, under the name İstanbul Kültür Sarayı (Istanbul Palace of Culture). Ferit Tüzün's Çeşmebaşı Ballet and Verdi's Aida Opera were staged at the opening.
The Istanbul Palace of Culture building, which was completed in 23 years, was soon destroyed by a fire that broke out during the performance of Arthur Miller's play, "Witch Hunt" on November 27, 1970. There was no loss of life in the fire, but some of the belongings brought from Topkapı Palace for the premiere of the play IV. Murad were also burned (a robe belonging to Murad IV, a valuable Quran, a painting showing Murat IV). The source of the fire
could not be determined.
The building, which was repaired by Hayati Tabanlıoğlu after the fire, was opened for the second time 8 years later on October 6, 1978. It continued to serve in that form until the 2000s. In 2005, it was suggested that the building be demolished by the then Minister of Culture, on the grounds that the building had completed its economic life. However, as a result of the intense reaction of art and architecture platforms and civil initiatives, persistent demonstrations and with the support of the press, in November 2007, the Istanbul No. 2 Preservation Board registered the Atatürk Cultural Center as a first degree cultural asset, and thus the destruction could not occur. The building, finalized by Hayati Tabanlıoğlu, is considered a typical example of the simple and functional architectural approach of the 1950s.
With the protocol signed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in November 2008, Tabanlıoğlu Architecture was assigned to prepare the renovation project of the Atatürk Cultural Center, undertaken by the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency. The renovation was stopped by
court decision due to the lawsuit filed by the Culture, Arts and Tourism Workers' Union. In February 2012, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Sabancı Holding and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for the restoration of the Atatürk Cultural Center. Sabancı Holding would contribute 30 million TL to the renovation works of the Atatürk Cultural Center. However, that year, it was reported that AKM would be demolished
Tan Sağtürk (born 14 July 1969) is a Turkish actor, ballet dancer, choreographer, and the current director of the “Directorate of Turkish State Opera and Ballet”. A graduate of Hacettepe University Ankara State Conservatory Higher Ballet Department, he began ballet lessons at age 9. Sağtürk has had a successful ballet career both nationally and internationally, performing as a principal dancer with the French Young Ballet Le Jeune Ballet De France, the French State Ballet Ballet National De France, and the Istanbul State Opera and Ballet.
He has significantly contributed to ballet education by establishing ballet and dance schools in Diyarbakır, Mardin, Gaziantep, Kayseri, Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Cyprus. His Ballet and Dance Training Center has popularized ballet and advanced ballet education in Türkiye. His work for the French State Ballet, Soude-ve Je ne Regrette Rien (Edit Piaf), received great acclaim.
Sağtürk played leading roles in major works such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and Emrivaki, offering both classical and modern ballet experiences to Turkish audiences. In the 2002-2003 season, he launched the “Heart Sound” project at Antalya State Opera and Ballet and later staged it in Izmir. He has won numerous awards, including the “International Melvin Jones Award,” and provided artistic consultancy and choreography for the musical “Romantika.”
Additionally, Sağtürk starred in the successful TV series “İkinci Bahar” alongside Türkan Şoray and Şener Şen. Active in media, he has been a presenter, jury member, and coach on television programs, and authored several books. In July 2009, he married Alona Ataberki, and they have two children, Ada and Teo. In 2023, he was appointed as the General Director of the State Opera and Ballet within the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
and another opera house and mosque would be built in its place, within the scope of the development plans proposed for Taksim Gezi Park and Taksim Square area. During the Gezi Park events that started on May 28, 2013, many demonstrators went to the roof of AKM with torches at night. The roof was evacuated due to the danger of collapse. The police finally settled in the empty building and started using it as a logistics center. Demolition of the building, which was abandoned ten years ago, began on February 13, 2018, to replace the original AKM with a new building.
Construction of the new complex started on February 10, 2019. The new AKM has a closed area of 95,000 square meters. The building has 4 basements, ground floor, and 9 floors, and the building has an opera hall with a capacity of 2,040 people and a theater hall with a capacity of 805 people. In addition to the theatre, cinema, and concert halls, there are various foyer areas, AKM Music Platform, children's art center, exhibition center, congress hall, library, museum, art gallery, cafes, and restaurants on the Culture Road within the building. The exterior of the opera hall, located in the middle of the building, is covered with 15 thousand custom-made ceramics.
The architect of the new building is Murat Tabanlıoğlu, son of Hayati Tabanlıoğlu, who designed the AKM built in 1969. The new AKM was opened with the performance of Sinan Opera on October 29, 2021. AKM also serves as the permanent stage of the Istanbul State Theatre, State Opera and Ballet, and State Symphony Orchestra. ■
Erol Guler, PhD, is the co-owner of GT Consultants LLC in Virginia. Previously, he was the co-owner of the ELC Group in Istanbul, Türkiye, for 20 years, which was acquired later by the global consulting engineering firm Royal HaskoningDHV. He has served as the principal geotechnical engineer to more than 200 projects in Türkiye and many different countries. He is also a retired professor from Bogazici University where he dedicated 37 years. Since 2017, he has served as an affiliate professor at George Mason University.
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Early planning in startup taxation and accounting is crucial to prevent future problems. Address these matters from the outset to set a solid foundation.
By Guclu Ozenci
In this issue, we explore the critical topics of startup taxation and accounting, including various company formations. Although these topics are vital, they should be addressed when filing deadlines loom, making them a common area of procrastination.
It is understandable to prioritize these issues only when sales and significant revenue come into play. However, startup founders must plan and address these matters from the outset. Quick action and rapid movement are essential, but being prepared for known challenges is equally important. By controlling the controllable, you can prevent future problems. Consulting an expert early on can help set a solid foundation.
The first step is to decide on the type of corporation you will establish: LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp.
● C-Corp: If your goal is to grow and eventually sell your business or attract investors, a C-Corp is the preferred model. Delaware C-Corps are favored due to their wellknown laws and efficient transactions.
Benefits include:
● Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS): Offers tax benefits to shareholders under Section 1202 of the US Internal Revenue Code.
● Stock Options: This enables the issuing of stock options to attract and retain top talent, converting these options into substantial cash at the time of exit or IPO.
● Double Taxation: The company pays taxes on profits, and shareholders pay personal income taxes on dividends.
● Governance: Requires a board of directors, regular meetings, and specific filings.
● LLC: A simpler structure with pass-through taxation, meaning it is taxed once like an individual. However:
● No QSBS: LLCs do not qualify for QSBS tax benefits.
● No Stock Options: Cannot offer stock options to employees.
● Ideal for Lifestyle Businesses: This category is suitable for businesses not aimed at acquisition, sale, or raising capital, such as brick-and-mortar operations.
● S-Corp: Suitable for smaller businesses wanting to save on taxes and avoid double taxation.
Benefits include:
● Employee Status for Owners: Owners can be employees and receive a reasonable salary subject to payroll taxes, with additional profits not subject to self-employment taxes.
● Tax Savings: Can be beneficial when business profits exceed the expected owner salaries.
Startup Accounting Practices
Accounting for startups varies based on the type and ambitions of the business. Emphasizing growth and speed over profit/loss might be more strategic. Key areas include:
● Cash Flow Management: Ensuring liquidity to support operations.
● Profitability Analysis: Understanding the financial health of the business.
● Customer Metrics: Measuring customer acquisition costs and lifetime value. These technical topics necessitate consulting experts.
Given the many unknowns startups face, it is best to seek professional help, make informed decisions, and then let CPAs and legal advisors handle the details. For tech and funding-specific questions or accelerator opportunities, visit Founder Institute Accelerator (www.fi.co) or www.connectop.co, and join our monthly founder meetup events. Reach me out for any business-related questions, accelerator opportunities at Founder Institute Accelerator (www. fi.co) or get help through www.connectop.co ■
Guclu Ozenci, a renowned technology entrepreneur, boasts a career marked by blending business needs with tech innovations. With roles at Cisco, HP, and Vodafone, he honed his adeptness in operations and relationship building. In 2013, he cofounded a B2B SaaS startup, leading it to a 2020 acquisition. Currently, as the managing director at the Founder Institute in Washington, DC, Ozenci focuses on aiding pre-seed startups. He is launching Axent Ventures, specifically supporting immigrant founders, by providing capital, networks, and expertise, reflecting his commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success. Learn more about Ozenci here.
Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.
By Melisa Gulsun Ozmen
Learning a new skill is one of the most challenging experiences in a person’s life right from birth. Whether it is learning to read and write, to ride a bicycle, to drive or to use a foreign language effectively, every learning process is a challenge requiring time, patience, and perseverance that all people experience. This process has four major stages: unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence. Passing through these four stages while learning a new skill or competence is a common process for all human beings. It is not possible for any person, whether of high or low intelligence, to jump to the last stage without passing through the first three stages. However, the way people chose to pass through these four stages and the pace of learning are closely connected to their innate abilities, skills, intelligence, and preferences. Their
preferences and the actions people take while passing through the four stages of a learning process determines their learning style. Being aware of the four learning stages and personal learning styles can make the learning process easier and, thus, make goals more attainable and sustainable.
In the first stage of the learning process, unconscious incompetence, we as learners
are unaware of what we do not know. We are unconsciously distant from the idea and the benefits of the concept we want to learn. At this point there is no interest in or curiosity about learning because the concept or skill in question is totally beyond our consciousness. In the second stage of the learning process, conscious incompetence, we begin to realize the benefits of learning a new concept, and we become interested in learning. At this stage we may begin to pay attention to news and marketing advertisements about the concept or new skill we want to learn. If we take learning a new language as an example, learners start to realize the benefits of acquiring this new language. We begin to consider that learning a new language might give us an opportunity to find a better job, to travel abroad, or to socialize with the native speakers of that language. This is the stage at which awakening begins in the learning process.
In the third and the most important stage, conscious competence, we make
a conscious decision and take concrete actions to learn the concept or skill. In the case of a new language, we commence a search for a language school, begin the education process, or travel to a country where that language is spoken. This stage requires a lot of patience and perseverance because it is when a lot of practice is needed and many mistakes are made. Being the most difficult and most time-consuming stage, it is when a lot of people give up on learning. It is crucial, however, not to be discouraged by the skepticism, mockery, or hostility that might come from others, sometimes even close acquaintances, friends, or family members. Many people abandon their education at this stage because of these challenges. However, if we are aware of the difficulties of this stage and we know what the next step of the learning process will bring, it can be easier to persevere and to remain committed to our learning goals.
In the fourth and the final stage of the learning process, unconscious competence, we are just as unconscious of what we know as in in the first stage, but this time with full competence. The procedural memory or “muscle memory” when riding a bicycle or driving a car is an example of this. Likewise, in the final stage of learning a language, we can use the language almost as unconsciously as riding a bike or driving. Words flow into our consciousness without effort when we are speaking. This is the stage of effortless competency and the stage where the rewards of the learning process are experienced. Expertise and professionalism come with this stage and it is here that we gain the competency to teach a concept to other people.
The style we choose while passing through these four stages personalizes our learning process. There are numerous systems categorizing individual learning styles, from an extrovert/introvert continuum to contrasting how “thinkers” versus “feelers” learn. The most popular system delineating different learning styles is the theory of multiple intelligences based on the research by psychologist Howard Gardner. Gardner
proposes that human beings learn, create, and solve problems based on eight sets of abilities:
1. Verbal (preference for words)
2. Logical (preference for math and logical problem-solving)
3. Visual (preference for images and spatial relationships)
4. Kinesthetic (preference for body movements and “doing”)
5. Rhythmic (preference for music and rhymes)
6. Interpersonal (preference for group work)
7. Intrapersonal (preference for introspection and independence)
8. Naturalist (preference for nature and natural categories)
Gardner later added a ninth intelligence, the existentialist, with a preference for deep thinking on human existence, including the meaning of life, how we got here and the purpose of death.
In the formal education system, most of these styles are taught. However, some students perform better when they learn verbally, while others learn better in a logical way. The ways that we learn comfortably are our intelligence strengths and the ways that we do not prefer are referred to as weaknesses. Pushing people to learn in a way that they are weak might have a demotivating impact on the learning process, especially at the most challenging third stage. If someone’s intelligence is intrapersonal and they like to learn independently, forcing interpersonal learning methods that promote group work on them might hinder or sabotage the learning process. Forcing rhythmic people to utilize a logical way of learning will only make them feel unsuccessful, or even stupid, though they are a genius at rhythm. People may have strengths in
more than one of the intelligences. With the example of learning a new language, people can learn a new language more easily with graphics, pictures, and designs than by reading books if they are strong in visual intelligence but weak in verbal intelligence. If they also have strength in intrapersonal intelligence, they can learn through selfstudy by using visual materials rather than in a classroom with a group of people. Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your intelligence will motivate you to learn new skills and thus explore your potential. If you are not sure of your type of intelligence, you can try one of free Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligence tests on the internet and determine whether the results really show you the way you usually prefer for learning. If you have high school or collegeage children, I encourage you to also use the test for them. This might stop you from judging yourself and your children only for weaknesses and instead work on improving both your and their strengths. Why judge a fish for not climbing a tree if it was not born a monkey? ■
Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences Test
Melisa Gulsun Ozmen is an economics graduate with two decades in Turkish business. She relocated to the US in 2018, seeking personal growth. Immersed in a distinct culture, she discovered inner transformation’s paramountcy, inspired by Osho’s wisdom. This revelation led her to the Transformational Life Coaching Program, graduating in 2020 and cementing her life's purpose. Melisa is a lifelong learner and coach, continuously exploring political science, psychology, and astrology, while also illuminating her journey of self-discovery and enlightenment through perpetual learning. Learn more about Melisa and visit her blog.
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Are you feeling a bit daring? Let us uncover the hidden options within these opportunities, shall we, Thrivers?
By Kitty Waldorf
Are you looking for a creative and constantly evolving career in the US? Look no further than the beauty industry! It is a vibrant and ever-evolving field with diverse opportunities. From surgical enhancements to transformative makeup artistry, these professions allow you to empower others and help them feel their best. However, transitioning from the Turkish beauty industry to the US requires adaptation. The US market is more specialized, often demanding additional certifications and training. Additionally, the beauty landscape is more competitive, with a significant presence of male competition. Beauty standards and trends also differ between the two cultures, so even experienced practitioners may need to relearn and recalibrate their skills to thrive in the US.
Are you feeling a bit daring? Let us uncover the hidden options within these opportunities, shall we, Thrivers?
Plastic surgery is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on repairing or reconstructing physical defects of the face or body. It encompasses both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. In the US, plastic surgeons are highly trained medical professionals who play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of their patients.
Primary Duties: The primary duties of a plastic surgeon in the US are diverse and encompass a wide range of procedures. These may include: Cosmetic Surgery: Performing elective procedures to enhance appearance, such as facelifts, breast augmentations, liposuction, and rhinoplasty.
Reconstructive Surgery: Correcting functional impairments caused by congenital disabilities, trauma, or cancer, including cleft lip and palate repair, burn reconstruction, and breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Hand Surgery: Addressing hand injuries, deformities, and diseases, including carpal
tunnel syndrome, tendon repair, and nerve reconstruction.
Microsurgery: Performing intricate procedures using specialized instruments and microscopes to reattach severed body parts, repair damaged nerves or blood vessels, and transfer tissues.
Non-Surgical Procedures: Administering injectables like Botox and dermal fillers to reduce wrinkles and enhance facial contours.
Average Salary: The salary of a plastic surgeon in the US can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, specialization, and location. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average annual salary for a plastic surgeon in the US is around $400,000. However, some plastic surgeons earn well over $500,000 annually, especially those with established practices in high-demand areas.
Education: Requires a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, residency in general surgery, and additional fellowship training in plastic surgery.
Workplace: Depending on their specialization and practice model, they work in various settings. Common work environments include hospitals, private clinics, academic medical centers, surgical centers, and private practices.
Notable Plastic Surgeons in DC: Bruno & Brown Plastic Surgery: Dr C Coleman Brown, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Sibley Memorial Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Dr James R Bruno, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Suburban Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Primary Duties: Estheticians provide non-surgical skin care treatments like facials, waxing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and eyebrow care. They often advise clients on maintaining a healthy skincare routine.
Average Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics $41,180.
Education: Typically requires a state-issued license after completing a cosmetology program, which usually takes 1-2 years.
Workplace: Salons, spas, and medical offices for medical-grade treatments.
Notable Esthetician in DC: Semra, a true beauty icon in Georgetown, DC.
Hair stylists are the artists behind the chair. They use their creativity and skills to transform hair into works of art. They are essential in the beauty industry, helping clients feel confident and stylish.
Primary Duties: Hair stylists offer services tailored to clients' needs and preferences. Their work starts with a consultation, where they discuss clients’ hair goals, analyze hair and scalp conditions, and recommend, where applicable, cutting and styling, coloring and highlighting, chemical treatments, styling and finishing, and hair and scalp treatments.
Average Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics $51,180.
Education: Cosmetology program or hairstyling apprenticeship.
Workplace: Salons, barbershops, freelance work for photo shoots or events, spas and resorts, film and TV sets.
Notable Hair Stylist in DC: Bridgett Van Horn from Aveda North America Artistic Team for hair color. She works at Logan 14 Salon and Spa in Logan Circle, DC.
4. MAKEUP ARTISTS: PALETTES OF POSSIBILITIES
Primary Duties: Applying makeup to enhance facial features for various occasions, including weddings, photoshoots, film productions, and everyday wear.
Average Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary is $40,520, and this includes all makeup artists, not only beauty makeup artists.
Education: Formal training programs or apprenticeships are common, though some makeup artists are self-taught.
Workplace: Studios, beauty wholesalers, beauty retailers, on location for events or freelance work.
Notable Makeup Artists in DC: Erwin Gomez’s Team at Karma in West End, DC.
5. NAIL ARTISTS: CRAFTING MINIATURE MASTERPIECES
Nail artists are the creative minds behind intricate and eye-catching nail designs. They transform nails into miniature canvases, expressing their artistic flair and enhancing the beauty of their clients' hands. While nail artist is the general name for both the nail technician and nail stylist, nail stylists are the professionals
who craft cute designs on nails, bringing joy and color to people’s lives.
Primary Duties: Provide manicures and pedicures, apply artificial nails, and create nail art designs. May also offer paraffin wax treatments and hand massages.
Average Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics $37,680.
Education: After completing a nail technician program (usually a few months), a state-issued license is often required.
Workplace: Salons, spas, and wherever their freelance work may occur.
Notable Nail Artists in DC: Varnish Lane in West End, DC.
If you are passionate about beauty and want a challenging and rewarding career, consider exploring one of these exciting options! Even if you were a well-known beauty professional overseas, you have to be prepared to start from the beginning in the US market. If you can see these challenges as a new learning opportunity, you will have fun and thrive in no time. ■
Kitty Waldorf is a self-excellence professional with more than 14 years of experience in MENA and US markets, focused on education, healthcare, and security and defense. She has been voted as the Best Life Coach of the Nation’s Capital since 2019. In 2023, she was named the Winner of the Best Life Coaching Category in Washington City Paper readers’ poll. Connect with Waldorf.
Public relations in the beauty industry goes beyond traditional advertising. It is about storytelling, creating meaningful connections, and generating millions of media impressions.
By Suheyla Tayla
Public relations (PR) aims to shape people's perceptions of a company, product, service, or person. The main objectives are to create awareness, build credibility, maintain relationships, and influence the public’s attitude.
Public relations in the beauty industry is not just a segment, it is a unique and specialized discipline. It encompasses media relations, influencer partnerships, content creation, crisis management, and brand storytelling. The sector’s competitive nature and its reliance on image, trends, and consumer trust make PR not just beneficial, but essential. The synergy between PR and the beauty industry has become increasingly sophisticated. PR in the beauty industry goes beyond traditional advertising. It is about storytelling, creating meaningful connections, and generating millions of media impressions.
The impact of PR on the beauty industry is not just significant, it is profound. Effective PR strategies have the power to transform emerging brands into industry leaders, foster consumer loyalty, and drive sales. By creating compelling brand narratives, engaging with influencers, and managing crises effectively, PR professionals help beauty brands not just survive, but thrive in the competitive landscape.
Moreover, the rise of digital media has amplified the role of PR in the beauty sector. Brands can now reach global audiences, engage with consumers in real time, and gather valuable feedback through
social media and online platforms. This direct interaction lets brands stay attuned to consumer needs and preferences, leading to more personalized and responsive PR strategies.
Successful PR in the beauty industry requires a strategic approach that aligns with the brand’s goals and resonates with its target audience. Key strategies include media relations, influencer engagement, social media campaigns, event management, and content marketing.
Like in all sectors, beauty industry PR has challenges and ethical responsibilities. To address these challenges, PR professionals must adopt strategies that prioritize integrity, transparency, and social responsibility and be aware of cultural sensitivities.
Public relations is more than just a supportive function in the beauty industry but a necessity. It is an indispensable component of the beauty sector, driving brand awareness, shaping consumer perceptions, and managing reputations. The intersection of public relations and the beauty sector is a powerful space for influencing public perception and driving industry trends. However, it faces ethical challenges that require careful navigation. Beauty brands and PR professionals can build lasting, trust-based relationships with their audience by embracing honesty, cultural sensitivity, diversity, sustainability, and transparency. Through strategic media relations, influencer partnerships, content creation, and crisis management, PR professionals help beauty brands build lasting connections with their audiences.
In an industry driven by image, as the beauty industry continues to evolve, the role of PR will remain crucial in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities for growth and success. ■
By Nil Güler
How can I start to describe Istanbul? It is a megacity with many historic relics and daily activities.
The Black Sea and the Marmara Sea surround it. It is also a gateway between continents, connecting Eastern Europe with far Western Asia. Istanbul, the largest city in Türkiye and the fifteenth-largest city in the world by population, is considered European, yet it occupies two different continents. One part of Istanbul lies in Europe and the other lies in Asia. It was the capital of three empires: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Istanbul was selected as the European Culture Capital in 2010. It has old historical relics and many universities. Of course, many activities continue in Istanbul, such as cinemas, theaters, concerts, and festivals.
I will try to explain Istanbul in three parts; Istanbul Old Town and Historic Peninsula, Anatolian side (Asian), European Side.
ISTANBUL OLD TOWN AND HISTORIC PENINSULA:
This month, I will take the old town and historic peninsula:
This is the most historic part of Istanbul. The Ottomans captured it in 1453. After that, they changed the capital from Edirne to Istanbul, which became the center of science, culture, and arts in the Ottoman era. It became a city where mosques, synagogues, and churches stood side by side with magnificent tolerance. Topkapı Palace served as the Ottoman Empire's residence, harem, and treasury for nearly 400 years. The palace complex consists of four main courtyards and many smaller buildings. Female members of the Sultan's
family lived in the harem, and leading state officials, including the Grand Vizier, held meetings in the Imperial Council building.
Hagia Sophia is an essential Byzantine structure in Istanbul and one of the world’s great monuments. It was built as a Christian church in the 6th century CE (532–537) under the direction of the Byzantine emperor Justinian.
The Hagia Sophia remained open to visitors as Türkiye’s most popular tourist destination. With its awe-inspiring grand dome, elaborate mosaics, and fusion of Byzantine and Islamic elements.
The Grand Bazaar (Turkish: Kapalıçarşı, meaning "Covered Market") in Istanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. With 61 covered streets and over 4,000 shops on a total area of 30,700 m2, it is regarded as one of the first shopping malls of the world. Today, the Grand Bazaar is a
perfect system, employing 26,000 people and visited by between 250,000 and 400,000 visitors daily. It is one of the major landmarks of Istanbul.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Camii) was designed by architect Sedefkar Mehmed Agha, who synthesized the ideas of his master Sinan, aiming for overwhelming size, majesty, and splendor. It reflects the Ottoman Style of the period, incorporating Byzantium aspects from the neighboring Hagia Sophia with Islamic architecture. It was the last great mosque of this classical period. The central dome reaches a height of 43 meters (141 ft). Four massive cylindrical pillars support the weight of the dome. The lower walls of the mosque, especially around the galleries, are covered in Iznik tiles; nearly 75 percent of the mosque's walls, above the level of the tilework, are decorated with painted motifs. The predominant color of this paintwork is blue, which gives the mosque its name. The mosque is illuminated by chandeliers hung from the ceiling. The many lamps inside the mosque were once covered with gold and gems. The Blue Mosque is one of the five mosques in Türkiye that has six minarets. Suleymaniye Mosque was built by imperial architect Sinan in the order of Suleyman I. The Süleymaniye Complex is one of Istanbul's most significant Ottoman monuments. The mosque dominates the Golden Horn, providing a landmark for the entire city. Though it is not the largest of the Ottoman mosques, it is undoubtedly one of the grandest and most beautiful. The mosque has four minarets and ten beautiful şerefes (balconies). It is a massive complex that once housed a soup kitchen, a library, a madrasa, a preparatory school, and a garden. The Süleymaniye Mosque bears excellent historical value for many reasons. First, it was built by the most talented Ottoman architect who has ever lived. The second reason is that there are certain very important figures' graveyards. The tombs of Suleyman the Magnificent and his wife, Hurrem Sultan, are on the mosque grounds.
İstanbul Archaeological Museum is the first regular museum appearing in the history of the Ottoman Empire and Türkiye, and has about a million artifacts from various cultures brought from the imperial lands. It is very close to Tokapı Palace. It has three major sections: The Archaeology Museum,
The Museum of the Ancient Orient, and The Tiled Kiosk Museum. This museum opened to the public in 1891. The most important items are the tablet of love poems, a bust of Alexander the Great, the Sidamura sarcophagus, a sarcophagus of Alexander, and the Kadesh peace treaty tablets.
The Basilica Cistern Museum is one of Istanbul's most important cultural assets. This grand underground cistern, known locally as Yerebatan Sarayi (meaning Sunken Palace), was the major water reservoir of Byzantium and Istanbul. The water was transported from the Belgrade Forest by the immense Byzantine aqueducts. This colossal structure covers an area of approximately 10,000 square meters. It is rectangular, with a length of 140 meters and a width of 70 meters. There are columns with medusa heads inside the cistern.
Istanbul University is one of the oldest universities in Europe, dating back to 1453.
Founded by Mehmed II on May 30, 1453, a day after the conquest of Constantinople by the Turks, it was reformed in 1846 as the first Ottoman higher education institution
based on European traditions. It has 17 faculties, two vocational schools, and 14 institutes with over 85,000 students. Among its alumni are two Nobel laureates ( Aziz Sancar and Orhan Pamuk), the longest-serving President of Israel, Yitzhak Ben-Zvi, two Prime Ministers of Israel (David Ben-Gurion and Moshe Sharett), the President of Türkiye, Abdullah Gül, six Prime Ministers of Türkiye and the current Mayor of Istanbul Ekrem İmamoğlu. ■
Nil Guler, PhD, is a graduate of Arnavutkoy American College for Girls (Robert College) and Middle East Technical University in Türkiye where she got her BSc in civil engineering (METU) and her PhD in management from Istanbul University.She has been a visiting scholar to Innsburg Institute fur Informatics, Southampton University and a post doctoral to University of Maryland. She has over 100 scientific articles and papers. She took part in many international and national conferences as a speaker and an organizer. In 2003, she became full professor. Between 2008 and 2015, she served as the Dean of Maritime Faculty of Istanbul Technical University. She retired as a professor from Istanbul Technical University. She also continued as a professor in Bilgi University after retirement. Currently she is a partner in GT Consultants LLC.
Immigrant entrepreneurs are a driving force behind the US economy’s growth, contributing to job creation, innovation, and community enrichment across the country.
By Muhammed Üzüm
The United States, a nation built on the foundation of immigration, continues to thrive from foreign individuals who bring with them not only their aspirations but their ability to strengthen the economy as well. The impact of immigrants on the financial development and prosperity of the US is ever-present, being an essential part of the nation's history. In an era where demographic changes and technological advancements are reshaping the global economic landscape, the role of immigration in sustaining and enhancing the US's economic position in the world is more critical than ever.
Immigrant entrepreneurs are a driving force behind the US economy's growth, and their businesses contribute to job creation,
innovation, and community enrichment across the country. National Foundation for American Policy’s (NFAP) brief from July 2023 emphasizes this substantial role that immigrants have played in the labor market, particularly post-pandemic, with findings of foreign workers accounting for nearly half of the employment growth from January 2021 through May 2023. These entrepreneurs often fill critical positions and, in turn, stimulate domestic consumption.
Immigrant-led companies are not just small businesses; they are among the most successful and forward-thinking firms in the country, too. Companies such as Google, eBay, and Tesla, which were founded or co-founded by immigrants, have become international brands and employers. Their success stories are a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that immigrant populations are famous for in the US, effectively creating a culture of innovation and competitiveness.
Furthermore, the positive economic effects of immigrant entrepreneurship extend beyond the businesses they start. They diversify employment opportunities, including side jobs, increase demand for local services, and add to the tax base. As the data of NFAP's brief indicates, the participation of immigrants in the workforce helps the US prevent economic stagnation. They also support the US in maintaining its living standards by empowering a dynamic economy that is responsive to changing market demands and global trends.
Innovation and the Competitive Edge
Immigrants’ inspirational works in the US are particularly distinguishable in the arena of innovation. The industry-leading work of immigrant scientists, engineers, and tech entrepreneurs has kept the US at the front of technological progress for decades. Immigrants also provide the US with the best and brightest labor force, which is extremely important for the nation as
it faces a potential decline in its working-age population. Undoubtedly, without the intellectual capital provided by immigrants, the US risks falling behind in the global race for scientific and technological leadership.
Additionally, the presence of immigrants in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is crucial for driving forward new ideas and technologies. With a substantial portion of STEM graduates in US universities being international students, these individuals' transition from academia to industry is a key factor in the continuous flow of revolutionary ideas. Immigrants are known to have higher rates of patent filings and are more likely to start businesses in emerging industries, consequently elevating the US's competitive edge in the global market.
Last but not least, the skills that immigrants bring is essential in adapting to technological transformations, such as the recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. Henceforth, immigrant workers with specialized skills are specifically instrumental in industries where technological shifts are occurring, ensuring that the US workforce remains adaptable and prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.
Immigration enriches the US with a cultural vitality that has many countable economic benefits. The varying backgrounds and experiences of immigrants lead to a greater range of consumer preferences and commercial ideas, which in turn drive business formation and economic growth. In that regard, a policy brief published in March 2024 by the NFAP links the growth in the foreign-born population to increased economic dynamism as evidenced by the surge in new business applications in states with ascending immigrant populations.
In return, the multiplication of businesses in the marketplace creates a competitive business climate, leading to more quality products and services for all consumers. Moreover, it allows companies to invest in new markets and diversify their service portfolio according to different ethnic and cultural groups both within the US and globally. The effect of immigrants on consumer trends is highly indispensable as they not only expand the range of available
goods but introduce new cultural experiences that can become mainstream, such as cuisine, fashion, and entertainment.
The economic gains that stem from cultural richness is also reflected in the durability of communities with high levels of immigration. These communities often experience development and growth as immigrants strengthen the local economy through their purchasing power and entrepreneurial investments. Combining different perspectives and talents helps create a sustainable and flexible economy that can adjust to the evolving needs of today’s societies.
Immigrants play a critical role in the fiscal health of the United States too, contributing more in taxes than they receive in government services. As evidenced in the NFAP's July 2023 brief, immigrants are not a burden on public resources but have a significant positive impact on the economy and public finances. Through their labor and consumption, immigrants help fund federal and state programs, including Social Security and Medicare, which are amongst the guarantees for the well-being of all Americans.
The economic advantages created by immigrants extend to improving the workforce in central sectors that range from agriculture to healthcare. Immigrants’ participation helps to address labor shortages and meet the
demands of a growing economy. Furthermore, the diversity of the immigrant workforce, which includes both highly skilled professionals and those willing to take on less-specialized jobs, is much needed for a balanced and functioning economy. The fiscal benefits of immigration are particularly evident when considering the alternative: a shrinking working-age population that could lead to fewer new ideas, reduced production of goods and services, and increased economic pressures.
The idea of the United States as a land of opportunity is embedded in its immigration history. Immigrants are not just participants in the US economy but are, in fact, one of its most influential drivers. Embracing and facilitating immigration is a must for the US to maintain its economic growth, foster innovation, and ensure a wealthy future. As the global talent competition intensifies, the US must remain an attractive destination for immigrants dreaming of contributing to its legacy of financial development and prosperity. ■
Muhammed Üzüm, an immigration and business attorney registered with the NY Bar Association, has been living in the United States for over 10 years. Before founding Grape Law, he worked as an attorney and partner at various law firms. Mr. Üzüm, with over 50 employees, continues his work as the founding attorney at Grape Law, providing legal services in both family and business immigration in the United States. / www. grapelaw.com
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Jonah Berger’s “The Catalyst: How to Change Anyone’s Mind” provides innovative strategies for influencing others. Here are some of the book’s key takeaways:
1. The Power of Social Proof: People tend to follow the actions of those they trust. Leverage testimonials, endorsements from respected individuals, and real-life examples of successful change to highlight the value of your idea.
2. Authority Matters: Expertise carries weight. Gain support from credible authorities in the relevant field to make your proposition appear more trustworthy and less risky.
3. Scarcity Increases Value: Limited availability can heighten desire. Frame your message around scarcity, whether it is a limited-time offer or decreasing resources, to create urgency and prompt action.
4. Overcoming Psychological Barriers: Resistance to change often stems from psychological roadblocks rather than stubbornness. The book identifies five key obstacles:
• Reactance: People resist being told what to do. Avoid triggering this by not directly confronting their beliefs.
• Endowment Effect: Individuals overvalue their current beliefs and possessions. Highlight the benefits of change and provide a clear pathway to overcome this.
• Psychological Distance: Distant or abstract changes feel less urgent. Emphasize immediate benefits or consequences to bridge this gap.
• Fear of the Unknown: Uncertainty
breeds resistance. Address potential concerns and focus on positive aspects to reduce perceived risks.
• Lack of Credibility: Good ideas need strong backing. Use data, statistics, and expert opinions to strengthen your message and overcome skepticism.
5. Remove Barriers Rather Than Pushing Harder: Instead of forcefully advocating for change, identify and dismantle psychological barriers. Making change easier and less threatening increases the likelihood of success.
6. Simplicity and Clarity: Complex ideas can be overwhelming. Break
your message into clear, actionable steps. People are more likely to embrace change when they understand exactly what it involves and how to proceed.
7. Emotional Connection: While facts are important, emotions drive decisions. Connect with people on an emotional level by highlighting how the change will benefit them or their loved ones.
8. Stories Over Statistics: Narratives resonate more than dry data. Use anecdotes, case studies, and personal stories to illustrate the benefits of the change. Stories make your message more relatable and memorable.
9. The Power of Surprise: Novelty attracts attention. Present your message with unexpected angles or surprising facts to engage curiosity and make your audience more receptive.
For more insights, you can buy Jonah Berger’s The Catalyst: How to Change Anyone’s Mind on Amazon. Plus, you can get a free audiobook version by signing up for Audible.
Prime Travel is a leading travel agency for airline tickets as well as vacation opportunities to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Europe, and beyond. We are a ticketing office for all of the major airlines including Turkish Airlines, Delta, Lufthansa, and many others flying worldwide. We have been providing service to the Turkish community for more than 30 years. Honeymoons, Destination Weddings, and Anniversary Groups are handled with great care and professionalism.
Enjoy exceptional vacations and cruises—to Europe, the Caribbean, Hawaii, or just about anywhere in the world—all carefully designed by travel experts offered from Prime Travel customers.
Founded by the Turkish immigrant Muhammed Uzum, New York-based Grape Law Firm marches toward a visionary future for the US immigration law industry with its innovative legal services.
Grape Law is an immigration and business law firm that combines experience, competence, and energy to help its clients achieve their multifaceted goals. It embarked on its journey as a forward-thinking startup specializing in immigration law, aspiring to modernize immigration law services and craft solutions. It cultivates these solutions with a keen eye for alignment with the societal needs and advancements of the dynamic 21st century.
Grape Law's unique approach, resting on the integration of technologically advanced methods, swift communication, and effective time management, facilitates its growth as an innovation hub. It aims to reduce the encumbering bureaucracy and tediousness associated with the US immigration law system.
Grape Law offers a comprehensive range of legal services, from business formation to obtaining relevant visas such as E-1/E-2, EB-1, EB-2 NIW, student and talent visas, family green cards, and more. The firm has represented clients from all over the world, including Türkiye and the US, and understands that each client's journey is unique. By adhering to this client-centric approach, it aspires to present new possibilities for those navigating the convoluted landscape of US immigration, personifying a revolution in immigration law services.
Furthermore, Grape Law's commitment to client success extends far beyond having dedicated and experienced attorneys. Delivering more than legal so-
lutions, Grape Law strives to provide a comprehensive client experience that significantly diverges from traditional concepts associated with immigration law firms.
Grape Law’s zeal in developing its proprietary products—such as the Grape Bot, an integrated generative AI, the Grape App, and the bilingual Grape website powered by UX and UI—is testament to its unique standing in both the law industry and the startup ecosystem. Through these efforts, Grape Law asserts its commitment to an innovative and transformative approach to legal services.
Grape Law has a team of more than 50 people, including attorneys, software developers, legal engineers, designers, and sales and marketing specialists. These professionals contribute to the firm's progressive vision for the future of immigration law services and work toward Grape Law's ultimate goal: Through revolutionary methods and implementations, transforming the immigration law services to minimize anxieties and maximize hopes for all, one case at a time.
I.S. Law Firm, PLLC offers uniquely integrated legal services in immigration law and injury matters with 17 years of experience.
Family-Based Immigration
● Marriage-Based Visa and Green Card
● Parent and Children Green Card
● Fiancé Visa
Business Immigration
● E-2 Investor Visa and Green Card
● H-1B Work Visas
● Executive Transfer and Talent Visa and Green Card
● PERM Applications
Citizenship and Naturalization
Humanitarian Applications
● Asylum
● Deportation Defense
● Bond Hearings
● Violence Against Women (VAWA)
● Victims of Crime (U Visa)
Personal Injury
● Traffic Accident
● Slip and Fall
We speak English, Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian, Amharic, Uyghur, Mandarin, and Azerbaijani languages.
LAZZONI, known for its high-quality and elegant furniture, is not only making a mark with its products but also with its talent development strategy. The brand’s growth plan focuses on discovering talented and well-educated individuals in Türkiye, developing their skills, and integrating them into its operations in the United States. Leading this visionary approach is Efe Kababulut, the CMO of LAZZONI.
Efe Kababulut has been a key figure behind LAZZONI’s global success. By opening the Chelsea store in 2009, he positioned the brand on the global stage. He summarizes the company’s talent management strategy as follows: “Our goal is to discover talented young individuals and help them fully realize their potential. We believe that we can teach
them a lot and they can teach us a lot with this approach. Of course, we want to grow globally and make our name a global giant, but we think it is not a long-term choice to do this with people who do not know our products or our brand history. Since the first day we were founded, we have not given up the importance we attach to craftsmanship and quality in this field as well.”
This program enables employees to keep up with the latest trends and technologies in the industry, develop leadership skills, and embrace LAZZONI’s innovative culture. Kababulut emphasizes that it is crucial to have a team that is constantly developing.
ala | DC ala | Bethesda We are getting closer to our goal of becoming a global brand every day. On the first day of the Republic’s second century, we proudly represent our country in international markets and are delighted to have delivered our 500th container to America.
LAZZONI FURNITURE
154 West 18th Street New York, NY 10011
(212) 242-0606 info@lazzoni.com www.lazzoni.com
"Real
Introducing Turan Tombul, a dedicated and seasoned real estate professional specializing in the vibrant markets of Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia.
With over two decades of experience, Turan has become a trusted advisor within the Turkish community and beyond, guiding clients through the complexities of buying and selling homes with unparalleled expertise and a deep understanding of cultural values.
Born and raised in Kayseri, Türkiye, Turan's journey to the United States began after his early education in hotel management, leading him to roles in prestigious Turkish resorts. His transition to America was marked by a fateful meeting with a US Congressman, inspiring him to pursue further education at the University of DC where he earned degrees in political science and economics.
Licensed since 2002, Turan's approach to real estate is deeply personalized. He excels in market analysis, always aligning his strategies with his clients’ needs and budgets to identify the perfect property. Turan’s philosophy centers on the belief that purchasing a home is not just a financial transaction, but a pivotal life decision. He ensures every property is scrutinized as if he were the buyer, maintaining an honest dialogue about each home's potential.
During the tumultuous times of the 2008 real estate bubble, Turan’s expertise became especially valuable. He adeptly navigated the challenging market conditions, advising clients when to buy and helping them capitalize on opportunities, turning a crisis into a chance for advantageous investment.
Turan’s commitment extends beyond property transactions. He is available around the clock, proving his dedication through continuous support in finding tenants, managing properties, and even solving maintenance issues long after the ink has dried on the sale documents. His deep-rooted understanding of the importance of community and home ownership, particularly within the Turkish
- Turan Tombul
culture, drives his success and fosters lasting relationships with his clients.
Additionally, Turan's passion for US politics and community service, inherited from his grandfather, a revered community leader in Türkiye, enriches his understanding of community dynamics and governance, further enhancing his service to his clients.
For those looking to navigate the real estate market, be it buying a dream home or selling one, Turan Tombul offers not just real estate expertise, but a partnership built on trust, respect, and a mutual understanding of the value of home. Connect with him at (202) 423-1423 or via email at ttombul38@gmail.com to begin your real estate journey with a seasoned expert who regards your satisfaction as
Compassionate surgical care you can trust
Dr Osman is American board-certified, fellow of Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland, completed fellowship in advanced laparoscopic bariatric surgery, has affiliation with Inova Fairfax Hospital and George Washington University Hospital.
EXPERTISE
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Giath Alshkaki Osman MD, FRCSI, FACS Board-Certified General Surgeon
Dr. Osman is fluent in Turkish. No matter what your interest or concern, he can help you make the best decision for you and your health issue.
For any appointments request or second opinions we can be reached at:
TR Phone: +90 (212) 900-3244
US Phone: +1 (571) 244-8000
Email: info@infinitysurgery.com
Address: Yeşilköy Mahallesi İstanbul Caddesi No: 82
Bakırköy/İstanbul, 34149 Türkiye
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The average American woman spends approximately $313 per month on beauty products and services, totaling nearly $3,756 annually.
The anti-aging skincare market is projected to reach $83.2 billion by 2027, driven by the increasing aging population and rising awareness of skin health.
Over 50% of beauty consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable and ecofriendly products.
Online sales of beauty products have surged, with a 23% increase in 2020, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The global nail care market is expected to reach $11.6 billion by 2027, driven by trends in nail art and longlasting polishes.
Approximately 75% of women in the US dye their hair, with the most popular color being blonde.
72% of beauty product consumers are influenced by social media reviews and endorsements.
The use of augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) in beauty, such as virtual try-on apps and personalized skincare analysis, is expected to become a $12 billion market by 2026.
Facials are the most requested spa treatment, accounting for 24% of all spa services.
The organic beauty market is booming, expected to reach $22 billion by 2024 as consumers prioritize natural ingredients.
The global beauty industry is valued at approximately $532 billion and is expected to grow to $805 billion by 2023.
In the United States alone, hair salon industry revenue was estimated at around $46.2 billion in 2020.
On average, women use 12 different beauty products daily, while men use about 6.
The beauty industry provides jobs for over 1.7 million people in the US, including hairstylists, cosmetologists, and estheticians.
Skincare is the largest segment of the beauty industry, accounting for 39% of the global market.
