The event "Stories of Hope: The Same Courage, Different Paths," which honors the presence of women in all areas of life with courage, determination, and solidarity, brought together the inspiring stories of women who achieved success in their life and career journeys and made a difference in society through their work. Hosted by Istinye University, the event featured contributions from prominent figures such as Community Volunteer Monik İpekel, Founder of KEDV Foundation Şengül Akçar, Journalist Mine Özbek, Founder of the Gender Equality Center and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof. Dr. Işıl Baş, President of UKDD Association Şima Sunder, and esteemed Istinye University academicians, who shared inspiring insights on women's labor and the social role of women.
"Women are the foundation and leaders of civilization"
In his speech at the event, Rector Prof. Dr. Erkan İbiş stated, "Women are among the most important actors in societal development. Building the future will only be possible with more women participating in education, work, and social life." Emphasizing the words of the great leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, "The foundation and leader of modernization and civilization are women," Prof. Dr. İbiş highlighted that women are the cornerstones of societal development and change, not only on March 8th but at every moment of life.
Women pioneers in education and science inspired the audience
Şima Sunder, President of the UKKD International Women’s Solidarity Association, emphasized the transformative power of education in society, stating, "In my career, my main goal as a pedagogue and educator is to raise the children of contemporary Turkey in the best possible way."
Prof. Dr. Yasemin Gürsoy Özdemir, an academic in the field of neuroscience and Vice Rector, shared her journey as a woman in science with the participants, discussing her inspiring life and career experiences. Prof. Dr. Özdemir shared her struggles and successes as a female academic and scientist, both in Turkey and globally, inspiring students and listeners alike.
"A woman's courage is the transformation of a society"
Monik İpekel, known for her social responsibility projects in collaboration with the İz Bırakan Kadınlar Platform, Parıltı Association, and numerous other associations and foundations, emphasized the role of female solidarity in societal development. She stated, "In an era where consumption is highlighted, it is our human responsibility to focus on real social issues. These issues mostly affect women and the impoverished. A woman's courage is the transformation of a society."
Women’s labor and social transformation discussed
Şengül Akçar, Founder of the Women’s Labor Evaluation Foundation (KEDV), pioneered Turkey’s first microcredit initiative and was instrumental in the establishment and activities of Women’s Cooperatives.
Akçar stressed the importance of women’s collective and social leadership in local development, saying, "It is essential to increase the economic power of women through social structures. Besides enabling disadvantaged women to participate in the economy through entrepreneurship, care services, and food sectors, their involvement in local decision-making processes is also crucial." According to Akçar, women’s participation is as significant in economic fields as in management and decision-making processes.
Gender equality aimed at both societal and individual levels
Gender equality was discussed as a key principle that supports women’s empowerment and their equal opportunities and rights in every field of society. It is of great importance for women who fight to exist in daily life to become aware of their own power and to believe in their ability to shape their future.
The need for women to be empowered not only economically but also socially and individually was emphasized. Prof. Dr. Işıl Baş, Founder of the Gender Equality Center and Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, stated:
“To ensure that women actively participate in the democratic structure of society, holistic strategies are needed to eliminate the social exclusion created by gender roles. Especially women from disadvantaged groups, beyond access to social services and economic support, need more fundamental rights. These include being valued as individuals, having the freedom to make decisions about their lives, and having a say in the policies that regulate these areas.”
The meaningful event led by women provided an unforgettable experience for participants with inspiring stories of women leading societal transformation. "Stories of Hope: The Same Courage, Different Paths" was an event that, under the leadership of women, hosted inspiring stories that lead transformation in society. Participants gained courage and motivation in their own journeys by drawing inspiration from the experiences of strong women. Istinye University continues its awareness-creating events with a vision that prioritizes societal development, equality, and contribution.
