Turkish Airlines' "Flying for Good Platform," spearheaded by its volunteer cabin crew, is on a mission to spread joy to those in need. Recently, the team visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, bringing happiness to hundreds of children. Turkish Airlines' Press Advisor, Yahya Üstün, highlighted this compassionate journey with a heartfelt message on social media.
The Largest Aid Movement in Eight Years
The "Flying for Good Platform," founded eight years ago, recently undertook its largest aid mission yet. Among the dedicated volunteers were Turkish Airlines Cabin Chief and platform founder Sinem Güldal, alongside 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 highlighted the significance of their mission, explaining that they have reached over 300 destinations across 126 countries, many lacking basic necessities such as clean water.
Turkish Airlines Spreads Joy
Second pilot Nurdan Karataş emphasized, "Nothing in the world is more important than the happiness of children," praising her colleagues for their contributions. Ferihan Işık expressed emotions of happiness and sadness, witnessing how their organization deeply touched people’s hearts and feeling honored to be part of this mission.
Impressions from Tanzania
Elif Aksoy’s Emotional Experience
Elif Aksoy shared an emotional account where children at the orphanage rushed to hug them, bringing her to tears. She emphasized the severe challenges faced in Africa, noting their duty to address children's basic needs. Thanks to contributions from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen, the children were receiving quality education. Describing the overwhelming poverty observed during home visits, she committed to continuing their aid efforts further. During their visit, they delivered 16 suitcases filled with gifts for the children.Seray Gürdal’s Perspective
Seray Gürdal suggested everyone visit such places to better appreciate their circumstances. She pointed out the vast differences in living standards and urged more gratitude. Sharing, she noted, increases the abundance of everything.
Thought-Provoking Messages
Dar es Salaam Ambassador Ali Davutoğlu noted 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 eloquently captured the essence of their mission: "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."
Most Frequently Asked
What is the "Flying for Good Platform"?
The "Flying for Good Platform" is an admirable initiative established eight years ago by Turkish Airlines' volunteer cabin crew. The platform's primary goal is to assist those in need around the world, providing essential aid and spreading joy. The recent mission to the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is a testament to their ongoing efforts. Volunteers delivered gifts, offered emotional support, and addressed basic needs for underprivileged children, fulfilling the platform's mission of making a positive global impact.
Why did Turkish Airlines choose Tanzania for their aid mission?
Tanzania was selected for Turkish Airlines' aid mission due to its high level of need, particularly at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. The region faces numerous challenges, including a lack of clean water and basic necessities. By focusing on this area, the platform aimed to significantly improve the well-being of the children at the orphanage, providing them with access to education, healthcare, and daily essentials. The mission also sought to raise awareness about the living conditions in Tanzania and encourage more humanitarian initiatives.
What impact did the aid mission have on the volunteers and the community?
The aid mission to Tanzania had a profound impact on both the volunteers and the community. Volunteers like Elif Aksoy and Seray Gürdal shared emotional experiences, noting how their efforts brought happiness and hope to the children. The community benefited from the tangible support provided, including gifts and basic necessities. Additionally, the presence of Turkish Airlines' volunteers highlighted the importance of global solidarity and compassion, inspiring others to contribute to such meaningful causes and underscoring the vital role of humanitarian aid in improving lives.
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.