Turkish Airlines Cabin Crew Spread Goodness in Africa
Turkish Airlines' "Flying for Good Platform," created by its volunteer cabin crew, aims to spread joy to those in need. Recently, the team visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, sharing happiness with hundreds of children. Yahya Üstün, Turkish Airlines’ Press Advisor, highlighted this compassionate mission with a heartfelt message on social media, encapsulating their impactful journey.
The Largest Aid Movement in Eight Years
Established eight years ago, this platform recently embarked on its largest aid endeavor. Key volunteers included Turkish Airlines Cabin Chief and platform founder Sinem Güldal, pilots Ferihan Işık, Nurdan Karataş, Vehbi İlhan Sayhan, and cabin crew members Elif Aksoy, Eren Akbaki, Ülgen Tunç, Seray Gürdal, Sabit Coşkun, Nihan Ceyda Ünlü, Doğan Kuyucu, Setenay Er, and Nur Hilal Bilgin. Captain pilot Ferihan Işık emphasized the mission's significance, noting that they have visited over 300 destinations across 126 countries, some of which lack access to basic necessities like clean water.
Turkish Airlines Spreads Joy
Ferihan Işık shared her mixed emotions of happiness and sadness, witnessing the profound impact of their organization on people's hearts. She felt honored to be part of this mission. Second pilot Nurdan Karataş emphasized, "Nothing in the world is more important than the happiness of children," thanking her colleagues for their contributions.
Impressions from Tanzania
The volunteers shared several emotional experiences, divided into detailed accounts below:
1. Elif Aksoy’s Emotional Experience
Elif Aksoy recounted how the children at the orphanage ran to hug them, bringing her to tears. She highlighted the severe challenges faced in Africa, describing their duty to address children’s basic needs. Thanks to contributions from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen, children were receiving quality education. She detailed the enormous poverty observed during home visits and committed to continuing their aid efforts. During their visit, they delivered 16 suitcases filled with gifts for the children.
2. Seray Gürdal’s Perspective
Seray Gürdal suggested everyone should visit places like these to appreciate their circumstances better. She pointed out the vast differences in living standards, urging more gratitude. She noted that sharing increases the abundance of everything, showcasing the spirit of giving.
Thought-Provoking Messages
Dar es Salaam Ambassador Ali Davutoğlu highlighted the significant role of the Ashure Foundation Orphanage, established by Turkish citizens and now housing 65 orphans under the honorary presidency of his wife Yeşim Meço Davutoğlu. Yahya Üstün’s social media post captured the essence of their mission: "About 8,000 kilometers away; if an orphan you meet for the first time hugs you sincerely and their eyes sparkle, it means you have touched their heart."
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkish Airlines' Charity Initiative
Why did Turkish Airlines volunteers choose Tanzania?
Tanzania was chosen due to its high level of need, particularly at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. The volunteers aimed to provide help in a region where even clean water is scarce, ensuring children have access to education, health services, and daily necessities, thereby improving their living standard.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "Flying for Good Platform"?
The "Flying for Good Platform" is an initiative created and run by volunteer cabin crew members of Turkish Airlines. Established eight years ago, the platform aims to uplift communities in need and improve their living conditions. The volunteers travel to various parts of the world to offer help and provide essential resources. Recently, they executed a significant aid mission in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, specifically at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage, where they spread happiness to hundreds of children by delivering gifts and addressing their basic needs.
Why did Turkish Airlines volunteers choose Tanzania for their mission?
Tanzania was chosen by Turkish Airlines volunteers because of its high levels of need, particularly notable at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. This region faces significant challenges regarding access to clean water, proper education, and sufficient daily necessities. The volunteers aimed to make a tangible difference in the lives of the children by ensuring they have access to education, health, and everyday needs, thereby significantly improving their standards of living and overall well-being.
Who is Yahya Üstün?
Born in Istanbul in 1985, Yahya Üstün completed his higher education in 2011 at Maltepe University, Faculty of Communication, Department of Visual Communication Design. Alongside his university education, Üstün held various positions in the media sector. In 2012, he was appointed as ATV's London Representative.
After serving in London for a year, Üstün pursued studies in International Media and Communication in London between 2014 and 2016. Üstün, who has held significant roles in the Turkish media sector, served as the General Broadcasting Manager of ATV Europe. As of January 2016, he has been serving as the Press Advisor for Turkish Airlines. Üstün has held board membership positions in numerous sports clubs and federations. Yahya Üstün is proficient in English and has a basic knowledge of Arabic.