Turkish Airlines’ "Flying for Good Platform," initiated by its passionate cabin crew, aims to bring joy to those in need around the world. The team recently visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, sharing happiness with numerous children. Yahya Üstün, Turkish Airlines’ Press Advisor, shared a touching message on social media, reflecting the profound impact of their journey.
The Largest Aid Mission in Eight Years
Established eight years ago, the platform's recent mission stands as its most significant aid effort to date. Key volunteers included Turkish Airlines Cabin Chief and 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 stressed the importance of their mission, noting they have traveled to over 300 destinations across 126 countries, some deprived of basic necessities like clean water.
Spreading Joy Through Flying for Good
Pilot Ferihan Işık expressed a mix of joy and sorrow, observing how their initiative touched people’s hearts. She felt privileged to be part of this mission. Co-pilot Nurdan Karataş highlighted, "Nothing in the world is more important than the happiness of children," thanking her colleagues for their substantial contributions.
Insights from Tanzania
Elif Aksoy’s Emotional Encounter
Elif Aksoy shared a moving experience where children at the orphanage eagerly hugged them, bringing tears to her eyes. She pointed out the severe hardships faced in Africa and emphasized their duty to cater to children’s basic needs. Thanks to support from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen, children are receiving quality education. She detailed the immense poverty observed during home visits and committed to continuing their aid efforts. The team delivered 16 suitcases filled with gifts for the children.Seray Gürdal’s Perspective
Seray Gürdal urged everyone to visit such places to gain perspective on their own lives. She highlighted the vast differences in living standards and encouraged gratitude. Sharing, she noted, enhances the abundance of everything.
Impactful Messages and Reflections
Ali Davutoğlu, Ambassador of Dar es Salaam, underscored the vital 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 beautifully encapsulated the mission's essence: "About 8,000 kilometers away; if an orphaned child you meet for the first time hugs you sincerely and their eyes sparkle, it means you have touched their heart."
FAQ About Turkish Airlines' Charity Initiative
Why did Turkish Airlines volunteers choose Tanzania?
The team chose Tanzania due to its urgent needs, especially at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. Their goal was to provide assistance in an area lacking even basic amenities like clean water, improving access to education, health, and daily necessities for the children.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Turkish Airlines' "Flying for Good" Initiative
What is the "Flying for Good Platform"?
The "Flying for Good Platform" is an uplift initiative driven by Turkish Airlines' cabin crew volunteers. Established eight years ago, this platform aims to aid those in need across the globe. By organizing missions to different destinations, they bring joy and necessary support to underprivileged communities. Recently, the team visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, impacting hundreds of children's lives through their heartfelt efforts and voluntary contributions.
Why was Tanzania chosen for the recent mission?
Tanzania was selected for the mission due to its high level of need, especially for basic amenities like clean water and proper sanitation. The Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam was a focal point, housing many children who require ongoing support in education, health, and daily necessities. The mission aimed to meet these needs and elevate the living standards of these children, ensuring a better quality of life and future opportunities.
Who are the key figures involved in this initiative?
Several notable individuals contributed to this mission, including Turkish Airlines Cabin Chief and platform founder Sinem Güldal, pilots Ferihan Işık and Nurdan Karataş, among others. Their collective efforts, partnered with support from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen, have made significant impacts, such as providing 16 suitcases filled with gifts to orphaned children. Their dedication and actions underscore the profound commitment to improving lives through compassionate global outreach.
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.
