Nominations: Nominations closed
Voting: Voting closed
Category
Candidates
Merhaba Arkadaslarim,
I'm Altay, and I'm excited to run for the role of Welfare Officer. As your longest serving member, having held membership since 2019, a fifth-year Medical Student, I have always encompassed and had a passion to uphold and promote Turkish values. Since my childhood, I have completed every secondary school examination in my mother tongue, led events commemorating multiple holidays and important dates, significant for the history of our country and our people. Since being at university, I have served on academic, welfare and social subcommittees, leading efforts in societies including having had the honour of being the President of Kinesis Magazine, delivering positive outcomes on campus and nationally.
In the role, I will not only aide all members of the committee but, introduce new activities. Sessions aimed at supporting those trying to connect with their routes through evening events, Turkish language sessions, networking & development sessions, as well as drop in sessions - whether this is through evening meals, film and tv screenings or inter-Turkic society events. I will endeavor to continue to build off the work of committees before me, promoting a space of inclusivity and diversity.
By ensuring we prioritise what our members want, we will continue to ensure the Turkish Society will thrive and continue to reach new heights in the upcoming year.
Thank you considering me, and I look forward to serving all of our members.
Being a member of the Turkish Society for the past two years has been incredibly rewarding. It became our family in London, helping us build friendships and gain valuable experiences as young people studying abroad.
To maintain this sense of unity, I believe that strong communication and a safe, inclusive environment are key. As Welfare Officer, I aim to create interactive opportunities—especially for newcomers—so everyone feels genuinely included in both events and everyday interactions.
Next year, I will take on the same role in the Salsa Society, which I believe will inspire new ideas and allow me to bring fresh perspectives to the Turkish Society.
My experiences—surf coaching at summer camps for the past three years, being a Student Rep last year, and an active member of the Leo Club in Turkey—have helped me develop skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, organisation, and time management. Volunteering with Zero Food Waste and the Salsa Society has also broadened my outlook and strengthened my sense of community. Coaching in particular taught me to handle crises, take initiative, and think in a solution-focused way—skills I believe would benefit the committee.
I would love the opportunity to support the Turkish Society with these experiences and be part of this vibrant and welcoming team!
Best regards,
Defne
Hi! I’m Selin, a first-year Neuroscience student. I’m running for Welfare Officer because I care deeply about building a real sense of community in our society—something I think we all need more of at UCL. Uni life can feel super independent and at times isolating, especially when you’re far from home. I want to help create a space where we feel supported, connected, and just more like us. That means more relaxed, inclusive events like okey nights, rakı & muhabbet evenings, and Turkish tea & chat sessions! From working in mental health spaces and wellness projects to performing on stage and managing a food blog, I’ve always tried to uplift others and bring people together. I want our society to feel like more than just events—it should feel like brothers, sisters, siblings coming together.
Let’s make our Turkish Society a true community—grounded in laughter, comfort, culture, and care.
I am standing for Welfare Officer because I am passionate about fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within the Turkish Society. As someone who deeply values community well-being, I want to ensure that every member feels heard, respected, and cared for.
My goals are:
- Building Inclusivity: Ensuring all members, regardless of background, feel welcome and represented in society events.
- Advocating for Members: Being a confidential point of contact for any concerns and working with the committee to address them proactively.
- Promoting Mental Health & Well-being: Organising workshops, safe spaces, and resources to support members’ emotional and academic balance.
I believe my empathy, organisational skills, and dedication to society’s values make me a strong candidate to enhance our community’s welfare.