Meet the Team:

Meet our dynamic team of young individuals united by a singular goal: Fostering unity and prosperity within our Turkish community. Committed to making a positive impact, each member brings unique talents and perspectives to the table, united in their passion for creating a brighter future for all.

Bilal Gülmez

President and Founder

My name is Bilal Gülmez, I was born in Sakarya in 1974. I graduated from Anadolu University Faculty of Theology…

Since 1996, I have been a founding member of various NGOs (MGV, AGD, EHAD, Dinbirsen) and sports clubs (Kardeş Gençlik, Wuhsu Federation) in Ankara. I started working as a civil servant in 2005. Between 2016 to 2020 and 2023, I worked in NGOs (ICMG, CCI) in the fields of community leadership and youth work in Toronto. By establishing our Federation (UTF), on December 21, 2023, we aim to ensure the unity of our Turkish community throughout Canada, solutions to their problems, meeting the needs of our youth and women, and increasing the atmosphere of peace, tranquility and trust with other communities living in Canada. We started our work to manifest a long awaited society of peace, without chaos, tears, cruelty and wars in the world, with the youth as our head focus.

Talha Çelik

Vice President External Affairs

My name is Abdulkadir Talha Çelik, I’m a scholar and researcher at the University of Toronto studying a Political Science Specialist, History Major, and English Minor, and an Economics Minor at Harvard Business School…

I work extensively on historical narratives, theoretical practices, and political expositions. My favourite pastime is to benevolently offer my skill set to humanitarianism based advocacy groups by stewarding civil liberties organizations. The intersection between law and politics fascinates me, and our democracy captives me. I strive for vulnerable communities to produce representatives and champions. My servitude is indexed on furthering their position by unleashing their potential.

Fadime Salman

Vice President External Affairs

My name is Fadime Salman, I’m a young professional, having obtained a Mental Health and Health Studies Double Major from the University of Toronto…

Currently, I serve to coordinate programs at a community centre where I am responsible for planning, organizing, and executing various programs catering to different demographics. I am eager and anticipate the exciting initiatives we have in store.

Emre Ertaş

Vice President Finance

My name is Muhammed Emre Ertaş, I’m a graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University with an Information Technology Major. I am a driven professional excelling as a data analyst…

My journey reflects a fusion of IT expertise and financial acumen, showcasing commitment to excellence and impactful leadership. The economic governance and symbiosis between sociological reflections and technological advancements are my core focus principles. I take on this challenge so to forward an embracing community. Fostering great initiative in expanding my skill set, I abide by the emerging demands of my Turkish community.

Isra Sönmez

Vice President Internal Affairs

My name is Isra Sönmez, I’m a student embarked on a journey dedicated to social work. Graduating from George Brown College with a Social Service Work Diploma, I equipped myself with the tools to enact positive change…

With purpose, I actively engage in projects aimed at enhancing the well being of communities. Whether it’s providing dedicated customer support, facilitating access to vital resources, or addressing needs with empathy and sensitivity, each task is a step towards a brighter future for all. I lead efforts to develop and implement projects that empower and uplift.

Tunahan Şakar

Vice President Communication

My name is Tunahan Şakar, I’m a professional engineer having graduated from the University of Toronto with an Electrical Computer Engineering Major with Honours, and an Engineering Business Certificate to supplement…

I am currently acting as a Senior Engineer designing chips for a photonic fabric company based out of California. I aim to support teams I am apart of by leveraging my technical background and analytical problem solving skills. When I’m not working, I bike in the summers, ski in the winters, and play soccer year round. Occasionally, I like to volunteer my time at other charities and NGOs that support causes I care about. I like to build things; as such, I am passionate about making our vision here come to reality.

Gizem Çetin

Vice President Communication

My name is Gizem Çetin, I’m a designer graduated from OCAD University with an Environmental Design Major with Honours. I Specialized in Architectural and Interior Design aside a Sustainable Design Minor…

Currently, I work in the construction industry with a production home builder within their Design Studio. I am working towards achieving my LEED Green Associate Certification, which demonstrates my proficiency in today’s sustainable design, construction and operations standards.
Additionally, I strive to develop the establishment of Media/ Web design communication channels. I am excited to be a part of an inspiring organization and looking forward to all the creative contributions.

Yusuf Ak

Vice President Organization (Secretariat)

My name is Yusuf Ak, I’m a change maker currently pursuing a Major in Business and Society at York University. With over seven years of experience in technology sales and a background in federal government work in Canada, I bring a diverse skill set to my role at UTF…

I am deeply committed to community service, having served as a youth coordinator and mentor. These roles have not only allowed me to inspire others but have also deepened my understanding of community needs. I enjoy taking care of my two cats and numerous house plants. I love river fishing and camping as a means to get outdoors and find balance.

Ayşe Salman

Vice President

My name is Ayşe Salman, I’m a student at Toronto Metropolitan University working towards completing a Social Work Major and Psychology Minor…

Within plenty of volunteering for many NGOs and charity organizations to help bring change to the world, I travelled around the world for humanitarian aid. With experience for NGOs as a programs coordinator, I hope to promote civic engagement among Muslims in Canada. I am honoured to be in a leadership role effecting representation for professionals in Turkish women’s communities. I will foster opportunity to serve my Turkish community in the Greater Toronto Area.

Asim Beyanouni

Director of Research and Development

My name is Asim Beyanouni, I’m a mobilizer having graduated from Western University with a Islamic Jurisprudence and Legal Theory Major. I am critical about bridging cultures and languages. I am fluent in Arabic, Turkish, and English…

Juggling multiple roles, I am most actively working as the copyright lead in the sector and a research assistant in the faculty. On the side, I’m diving deep into the graduate research for Islamic Studies Dissertation at The University of Western Ontario.

Basim Beyanouni

Director of Education

My name is Basim Beyanouni, I’m an educator that is fluent in Turkish, Arabic, and English. I strive to bring a diverse and multifaceted perspective to my roles…

Graduated from The University of Western Ontario with a Theology and Pedagogical Formation Major, my passion lies in exploring the intersections of society and religions, as well as cultures and languages. Currently, I’m dedicated to advancing my knowledge with a graduate degree in Islamic Studies Dissertation. Alongside my academic pursuits, I contribute as an administrator in the healthcare accreditation sector, and as a research assistant at the faculty.