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Turkan Aksoy
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Professional Background
Turkan Aksoy is a dedicated Cultural and Inclusion Officer with over 20 years of experience in the community sector, focusing on advocating for multicultural issues related to access and equity. With a profound commitment to community development, Turkan has become a significant stakeholder within the realms of cultural diversity, social justice, and inclusivity. Throughout her career, she has worked at both government and non-governmental levels, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and experience that has contributed to the enhancement of diverse communities.
Turkan's expertise encompasses building the capacity of small and emerging communities, offering cultural diversity training, and developing employment skills programs for marginalized groups, particularly women at risk and youth. One of her most notable achievements is the founding of the Youth StepUP Program, a collaborative initiative designed to provide free employment support tailored specifically for young individuals from refugee backgrounds. This innovative program is a testament to Turkan's unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in her community.
In addition to her foundational work with Youth StepUP, Turkan recently launched the Youth StepUP Apps, which has gained remarkable traction, amassing over 800 registered local users and being viewed in 82 countries worldwide. This digital platform not only responds to the employment needs of young people but also offers them vital tools to navigate the challenges they face in today's world. The success of the Youth StepUP initiative and its senior app exemplifies Turkan's approach to addressing youth issues such as mental health, employment, and social welfare through innovative solutions.
Education and Achievements
Turkan's educational journey has equipped her with solid foundational knowledge and skills. She holds a Bachelor in Health Sciences from the University of Western Sydney, along with an Associate Diploma in Applied Science from the University of Sydney. This academic background has provided her with the analytical and practical skills necessary to tackle health and community-related issues effectively.
Her commitment to excellence has been recognized on multiple occasions. Notably, in 2016, Turkan received the Humanitarian Award for Best Project, underscoring her impactful work and dedication to humanitarian efforts. This recognition is one of the many testaments to her lifelong commitment to promoting social equity and enhancing the living conditions of diverse communities.
Notable Contributions
Turkan's contributions extend beyond her direct work in the community; she has played a crucial role in mentoring youth, particularly those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds in Bankstown. Her collaborative efforts include significant input in developing the Council's Reconciliation Action Plan and Protocols document, reiterating her dedication to fostering understanding and inclusivity among diverse populations. As the NSW Coordinator for Welcoming Cities at Welcome to Australia, Turkan actively works to create a welcoming environment for all immigrants and refugees, thereby championing inclusivity at a broader level.
Conclusion
Overall, Turkan Aksoy's extensive experience and innovative approaches in the realm of cultural diversity and inclusion position her as a significant leader and advocate for underrepresented communities. Her work, particularly through the Youth StepUP program and the Youth StepUP Apps, continues to transform lives and expand opportunities for young individuals facing unique challenges. With her strong educational background and a passion for equity, Turkan remains committed to empowering diverse groups, ensuring that every individual has access to the resources and support necessary for their success.
