ANATOLIA: SEVEN REGIONS, SEVEN WOMEN

Elif Akçivi – Livestock Farmer & Influencer @gezenoglak

“I love the city I was born in. Its climate helps me maintain a positive mindset and its nature soothes my soul. We live in a city that is rich in so many ways. I feel very lucky when it comes to content creation and observation. Since childhood, I have raised many animals and encountered various species in nature. I’ve learned about plants, their benefits and how they can be harmful. All of this has elevated me, both in my education and in my perspective on life.”

Şaziye Özlem Turan – Choreographer & Performance Artist @saziyeozlem

“Konya is one of the oldest settlements in Anatolia, bearing the deep traces of history. Its past stretches back approximately 9,000 years to the Neolithic Age. Just thinking about this invites me on a profound inner journey towards my roots, tranquility and a spiritual experience. Being nourished by Anatolia’s ancient culture expands my creative vision. This city, with its calmness and mystical energy, provides a strong foundation for me to focus on my dreams. The serenity and spiritual atmosphere of Konya, the hospitality of its people, and the vast blue sky create a rhythm and peace in my daily life, allowing me to deeply concentrate on my creative processes. The city’s profound culture and esoteric aura inspire my projects and dreams, making them more meaningful and authentic.”

Gökçe Erhan – Painter @gokceerhann

“Experiencing and exploring the historical, cultural and natural values of the place where I was born and raised has given me a deep appreciation for preserving and sustaining those values. No matter how I express my art, I see it as a synthesis of traditional and contemporary life, uniquely intertwined. Though I live alone on a hill overlooking the sea, my consciousness has been shaped by my environmental and social awareness. The sense of freedom I feel has always brought creativity along with it; emerging in an ordinary, perhaps spontaneous, yet mysteriously evocative way.”

Dilara Kurt – English Teacher @yedik_ictik_kaldik

“The spirit of Izmir influences people in many ways. The city cultivates a unique way of life. Its name is the name of freedom. We love having fun in crowds just as much as we love disappearing into nature and embracing silence and solitude for hours. It feels like our main purpose is to enjoy life. This mindset is shaped by Izmir from the moment we are born. Izmir is an open-minded city. It does not reject new ideas or perspectives, making it easy for creative environments to flourish. I am a full-time teacher, but I have also worked with wood, made flower pots at home, and pursued my third university degree. My husband and I have hobbies like fishing and camping. Growing up in Izmir feels like having a superpower as if you could do anything.”

İlke Kodal – Ballet Artist @calamiti

“Istanbul is a little bit like me, a little bit like you. A magical city filled with emotions, experiences and secrets. It helps me see the balance within contrast and chaos. Its roots are strong. Sometimes I feel like I’m in a time tunnel. It gives me both a sense of belonging and a feeling of solitude. Istanbul is a city full of inspiration. My ultimate favourite is the ferry. Even on the coldest winter day, inhaling the Bosphorus from a sheltered spot, feeling grateful and embracing the pulsating heart of this city, which beats differently at night and during the day, brings me joy and vitality in spite of everything.”

Betül Abak – Chef at Arura Hotel @betullabak3

“The soul of Mardin carries the depths of the past into the present. The warmth of its stone walls and the boundless freedom of its vast plains nourish my spirit. This city reminds me of my roots while strengthening my hopes for the future. I find peace and happiness right here. My daily life is shaped by my work and the inspiration I draw from my surroundings. Preparing menus, experimenting with new flavors and focusing on creative processes are an enriching journey for me. Whenever I find the time, I wander through Mardin’s bazaars; watching people, visiting spice shops and immersing myself in the unique scents that ignite my creativity. The changing colors of the plains with the seasons inspired me to create a menu called ‘Colours of the Plain.’ Mardin’s powerful sun gave me the idea for another menu called ‘The Feast of the Sun.’”