Mayor Turan Meets with Young People at the Introductory Meeting for the 15th Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors

Mr. M. Ergün Turan, the Mayor of Fatih Municipality met with 400 young people at the introductory meeting held as part of the 15th Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors Program. Addressing the youth who will voluntarily promote Fatih’s historical and cultural heritage, Mr. Turan extended his congratulations and best wishes for success.Mr. M. Ergün Turan, the Mayor of Fatih Municipality met with 400 young people at the introductory meeting held as part of the 15th Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors Program. Addressing the youth who will voluntarily promote Fatih’s historical and cultural heritage, Mr. Turan extended his congratulations and best wishes for success.

The information meeting, held at the Neslişah Sultan Cultural Center with the participation of Mayor Turan, marked the 15th year of the Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors Program, which is traditionally organized in collaboration with Fatih Municipality, the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ICOC), and TUGEV (Tourism Development and Education Foundation). The 400 young participants, who earned the right to join the program after successfully completing written and oral exams, will serve as guides this summer, introducing local and international visitors to the rich history and culture of Fatih.

Expressing his satisfaction with the strong interest shown in the program, Mr. Turan addressed the young ambassadors with the following remarks:

“Fatih is not just a district; it is the crossroads of civilizations and the heart of our historical memory. You will be the ones to share this richness, to carry our culture, and to introduce this unique geography to our guests. This role is based on volunteerism, but it carries great responsibility. Because the best way to describe a city is through the heart of someone who carries it within them. I congratulate you all and wish you great success.”

The Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors will serve across various historic locations within the city walls, including the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, the Blue Mosque, Topkapı Palace, Yedikule Fortress, the Fener-Balat route, and the Süleymaniye Mosque and its surroundings. These young volunteers will assist visitors by providing directions, historical background of landmarks, and answering questions about the district—essentially acting as cultural ambassadors.

Mr. Turan, the Mayor emphasized that the program is not merely a touristic guidance activity, but also a platform for education and communication that helps young people develop a stronger sense of belonging to their city. “The streets of Fatih will find meaning through your voices. The more you embrace and internalize this heritage, the more profound and impactful your storytelling will be. When you combine the enthusiasm of youth with our culture, you will be building a valuable bridge,” he said.

Throughout the meeting, you people received detailed briefings about their roles. Presentations were given on ethical standards, communication techniques, points of attention in historical areas, and essential tourism knowledge.

Fatih Municipality’s long-running program has welcomed thousands of young participants over the years, contributing to the city’s collective memory and nurturing socially responsible individuals. Now in its 15th year, the Volunteer Tourism Ambassadors Program will once again fill Fatih’s historic streets with the voices of youth throughout the summer.