Economy and entrepreneurship take center stage at April 23 reception in Gümülcine

Economic development, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment were at the forefront of discussions during the “DTIK Komotini April 23 Reception,” held on Thursday in Gümülcine.

The event was jointly organized by the Consulate General of the Republic of Türkiye in Gümülcine and the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Türkiye under the umbrella of the World Turkish Business Council, bringing together community leaders, business representatives, and young professionals from across the region.

Strong Messages on Future and Identity
The reception, hosted at Diamond Restaurant, highlighted both the symbolic importance of April 23 and the evolving socio-economic priorities of the Turkish community in Western Thrace.

Opening the program, Adem Yavuz emphasized that April 23 represents not only a historic milestone but also a forward-looking vision:

“April 23 is not just a celebration of the past—it is a powerful reminder of our responsibility to build the future.”
Yavuz also underlined the significance of the Western Thrace Turkish community as an integral part of Türkiye’s broader global network, noting that DTIK operates in over 90 countries and 216 cities with more than 1,100 members, with youth forming its core strength.

Call for Productivity and Innovation
Speaking at the event, Levent Sadık Ahmet stressed the need to move beyond identity preservation toward economic and intellectual advancement:

“It is no longer enough to simply exist. We must produce value, invest in education, and become more visible in every field.”

He encouraged young people to take risks, embrace entrepreneurship, and develop a global perspective, while remaining committed to contributing positively within the legal and social framework of Greece.

Diplomatic Support and Youth Emphasis
Aykut Ünal also addressed the audience, celebrating April 23 National Sovereignty and Children’s Day and highlighting the importance of determination and entrepreneurial spirit among younger generations.

Ünal referenced the legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk as a continuing source of inspiration, particularly for youth striving to shape the future.

Panel: From Tradition to the Future
Following the opening remarks, a panel titled “From Tradition to the Future – New Generation Diaspora and Türkiye’s Global Power” brought together key voices from academia and civil society.

Alongside Levent Sadık Ahmet, speakers included lawyer Gizem Besim and young academic representative Eslem Ali Çavuş.

Discussions focused on:

• The importance of disciplined work and global awareness for youth
• Empowering minority women through education and social initiatives
• Addressing employment challenges and expanding opportunities in Western Thrace
• Besim highlighted efforts to strengthen women’s roles through educational and social programs, while Çavuş pointed to structural challenges such as limited job opportunities and the need for increased institutional support for young people.

Interactive Engagement and Closing
The panel concluded with a Q&A session, followed by a plaque presentation ceremony and a group photo. The event ended with a reception, reinforcing networking and community ties.

Participants described the gathering as a meaningful platform that combined cultural commemoration with forward-looking discussions on economic resilience and entrepreneurship.