Turkish Airlines Family Spreads Hope and Joy in Dar es Salaam

Turkish Airlines' "Flying for Good Platform," created by volunteer cabin crew members, aims to bring joy to the needy. Recently, the team visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, sharing happiness with countless children. Yahya Üstün, Turkish Airlines' Press Advisor, highlighted this heartfelt mission on social media, underscoring their positive impact.

The Largest Aid Movement in Eight Years

Founded eight years ago, this platform recently undertook its most substantial aid effort. Volunteers included 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 emphasized the mission's importance, noting that they have visited over 300 destinations in 126 countries, many lacking basic essentials like clean water.

Turkish Airlines Spreads Joy

Ferihan Işık shared feelings of both joy and sorrow, witnessing the profound impact of their efforts. She felt honored to be part of this mission. Second pilot Nurdan Karataş stressed, "Nothing in the world is more important than the happiness of children," and thanked her colleagues for their contributions.

Impressions from Tanzania

1. 
   

   Elif Aksoy’s Emotional Experience
   
   Elif Aksoy recounted being moved to tears when children at the orphanage ran to hug them. She emphasized the dire challenges in Africa and their responsibility to meet children’s basic needs. With contributions from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen, children were receiving quality education. She described the extreme 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.

   
   
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   Seray Gürdal’s Perspective
   
   Seray Gürdal suggested that everyone should visit such places to truly appreciate their own circumstances. She highlighted the vast differences in living standards and urged for more gratitude. Sharing, she noted, increases the abundance of everything.

   
   

Thought-Provoking Messages

Dar es Salaam Ambassador Ali Davutoğlu highlighted the importance of the Ashure Foundation Orphanage, established by Turkish citizens, now housing 65 orphans under the honorary presidency of his wife Yeşim Meço Davutoğlu. Yahya Üstün’s social media post eloquently captured their 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."

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkish Airlines' Charity Initiative

What is the “Flying for Good Platform”?

The “Flying for Good Platform” is a volunteer-run organization established by Turkish Airlines cabin crew. Founded eight years ago, its mission is to assist those in need and improve living conditions. Recently, they executed a heartfelt aid mission at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, bringing joy to hundreds of children.

Why did Turkish Airlines volunteers choose Tanzania?

Tanzania was chosen due to its high levels of need, particularly at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. The volunteers aimed to provide aid in a region where even clean water is scarce, ensuring children access to education, health services, and daily necessities, to enhance their quality of life.

Most Frequently Asked

What is the Purpose of the “Flying for Good Platform”?

The “Flying for Good Platform” was established by volunteer Turkish Airlines cabin crew to assist those in need and uplift their living standards. This initiative has been operational for eight years, aiming to bring smiles and joy to impoverished communities. Their recent significant mission at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is part of this ongoing effort. The volunteers deliver essential supplies, gifts, and support, bringing hope and happiness to children and families who face severe daily challenges.

Why Did Turkish Airlines Volunteers Choose Tanzania for Their Mission?

Tanzania, particularly the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, was chosen due to its high levels of need. The region suffers from a scarcity of clean water and other basic necessities, making it a critical area for aid. Turkish Airlines volunteers aimed to significantly improve the living conditions of the residents by providing essential supplies, healthcare, and educational support. Their efforts focused on ensuring that children at the orphanage had access to a better quality of life, with a brighter future ahead.

Who Are the Key Figures in the "Flying for Good" Team?

The "Flying for Good" team consists of Turkish Airlines cabin crew and pilots, including notable figures such as Sinem Güldal, Ferihan Işık, and Nurdan Karataş. Sinem Güldal, the platform's founder, and Cabin Chief, initiated this humanitarian effort. Captain pilot Ferihan Işık and second pilot Nurdan Karataş played crucial roles in recent missions, showcasing their dedication to the cause. These key figures, along with other passionate volunteers, work tirelessly to bring happiness and support to underprivileged communities around the world.

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.