Youth festival excitement fills Gümülcine City Square

The Young Academics Community (Genç Akademisyenler Topluluğu - GAT), operating under the Western Thrace Turkish Minority Higher Education Association (WTMUGA), held a spirited Youth Festival on the evening of Sunday, August 3, in Gümülcine’s city square.

The highlight of the festival was the performance by the alternative rock band Yüzyüzeyken Konuşuruz from Türkiye. The band captivated the young crowd with their popular songs, turning the square into a lively scene filled with music and applause.

At the festival’s opening, GAT President Hilmi Eren Sait and WTMUGA President Hüseyin Baltacı addressed the audience.

In his speech, GAT President Eren Hilmi Sait emphasized that the festival was more than just entertainment. “We see this festival not only as a celebration but as the voice of youth, a space for creativity, solidarity, and a symbol of our shared future,” Sait stated. He expressed his excitement at being with the young people who filled the square and said, “We believe that youth is not only the future but also the present’s voice. A thinking, questioning, and productive youth is the strongest pillar of our society. This festival aims to amplify the youth’s voice and highlight the value of collective creation and shared dreams.”

Sait also thanked the Gümülcine Municipality and Mayor Yannis Garanis, emphasizing that such events send a strong message of coexistence. He extended his gratitude to the GAT volunteers, supporting institutions, and participating youth. Concluding his speech, Sait invited the youth to share, create, and dream, saying, “Youth is not just an age, it is an attitude.”

WTMUGA President Hüseyin Baltacı also spoke, underscoring that the event was not an ordinary concert. “This concert carries a beautiful meaning and serves as a bridge. Music and art unite the Turkish and Greek peoples, creating a bond of brotherhood, peace, and friendship,” he said. Baltacı highlighted that both communities share the same melodies, experiencing joy, excitement, dreams, and love together, and that these shared emotions are strengthened through music.

He concluded by thanking the GAT board, members, and all who contributed to the event’s success.

Before the concert, the rhythm group led by Gönen Molla, operating under WTMUGA, performed to enthusiastic applause.

The festival was remembered as a significant event fostering cultural integration in the region.