TEDxALKEVHS Youth

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Cem Arıdağ

  Born in 1983, Cem Arıdağ graduated from Saint Benoît French High School and Istanbul Bilgi University’s Advertising Department. He started his career with internships and later worked as a copywriter at an international agency. He earned his master’s in Media and Communication at Pace University in New York, where he also explored journalism and digital communication. Returning to Istanbul, he led the transformation of UNITE Edelman into an integrated agency, expanding its digital and creative teams. Since 2013, he has continued his role there, with a brief break for Miami Ad School. Since 2020, he has also taught part-time at Istanbul Aydın University. Cem believes communication is a transformative bond that starts with the self.

• Ceyda Ertuğrul

  My name is Ceyda Ertuğrul, and I was born in Istanbul in 2008. I am currently a 11th-grade student at Alkev Private Anatolian High School. Since childhood, I have been curious, productive, and open to learning. Discovering new things, developing myself in different areas, and doing work that can touch people have always interested me. Throughout my educational journey, alongside my academic work, I have also participated in various social and artistic activities outside of school. My interest in photography taught me the importance of observation and patience. Writing and researching enabled me to express my thoughts more effectively. Furthermore, the debate and MUN events I participated in outside of school developed my analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills. My TEDx talk in 2025, titled “Dynamics of the New Age: Changing People, Changing World,” was an important experience for me. This talk gave me experience in public speaking and helped me better understand humanity's place in a changing world. Over time, my interest in scientific topics grew. Thinking about the structure of the human body and the balance between health and life has always fascinated me. In the future, I aim to pursue a career in medicine, where I can both benefit people and continuously develop myself. I believe that true success lies in sharing knowledge and benefiting others.

• Defne Fidancı

  Defne Fidancı is a 12th-grade student at ALKEV Schools, currently preparing for the Turkish university entrance exam (YKS). She was a member of the PR (Public Relations) department of AG Robotics during the 2023–2024 season, contributing to the team’s communication and media projects.

• Defne Osmanbaşoğlu

  Defne Osmanbaşoğlu is a 12th-grade IB student at ALKEV Schools. Passionate about learning and personal growth, they enjoy exploring diverse fields and developing new perspectives through academic and extracurricular experiences.

• Derin Kaan Vural

  I am currently studying at ALKEV Anatolian High School as an IB student. I actively participate in music events as a piano and guitar player and a singer. I also have been in the Debate Team for couple of years, participating in several tournaments.

• Doğa Nakipoğlu

  I am currently studying at ALKEV High School as an IB student. In the summer I volunteer regularly in the turtle rescue team and in addition to this I also give information to beginners when necessary.

• Duru Demirci

  I am a grade 11 IB student studying at ALKEV High School. I actively take part in the ALKEV MUN team, having 8 conference experiences in 3 which I have received an award; nonetheless looking forward to more. Additionally, I am also a player of the ALKEV Girls’ basketball team and received a podium as a team all the years that I played.

• Ebru Edgü Malkoç

  Ebru Edgü Malkoç — I'm passionate about turning data into insights, blending storytelling with strategy, and transforming curiosity into a career. After earning my degree in Econometrics from Istanbul University, I began as a data analyst and moved into market and public research. Since 1996, I’ve held leadership roles in the media industry, including 20 years as General Manager at Vizeum (Dentsu). I hold an MBA from Yeditepe University and am currently pursuing a PhD in Advertising at Bahçeşehir University. As General Coordinator of TÜAD, I continue to contribute to the industry. I’ve served on boards like RIAK, BIAK, and TIAK, judged awards such as Crystal Apple and Felis, and mentored young talents through programs like Rookie Camp and Adcampus. I believe every question opens the door to discovery.

• Ege Meriç

  I’m a 17-year-old student at ALKEV with a deep passion for classical music and composition. As a pianist and aspiring composer, I’m especially drawn to tonal music rooted in the Romantic tradition. Inspired by the works of composers like Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky, I hope to study classical composition in the United States and develop a personal voice that balances emotion, structure, and lyrical expression. Outside of music, I enjoy video editing and have been creating visual content for the past four years. I’m also a big Star Wars fan, captivated by its cinematic world and iconic scores.

• Faruk Alp Kantarcı

  I am a 9th-grade student at ALKEV Private Anatolian High School. I am currently serving as the President of the Student Council. I am also an active member of the Science and Project Club, where I continue to work on new project developments. Additionally, I am a member of the Debate Club, contributing actively to its activities. Previously, I played an active role in the AG Robotics Team as a member of the Public Relations department. I have also participated in various school-organized events as a member of the Waltz and Zeybek dance teams, as well as serving as a speaker and presenter, demonstrating strong social involvement. Currently, I am also participating as a speaker at the TEDxYouth@ALKEV event.

• İrem Akanlar

  İrem Akanlar is a 12th-grade IB student at ALKEV Schools. She is passionate about exploring the intersection of psychology, literature, and human behavior. In her academic and personal pursuits, she focuses on understanding how change shapes identity, emotions, and personal growth.

• Işıl Cansu Ergincan

  Işıl Cansu Ergincan discovered her passion for sustainability during an Erasmus internship at a sustainable living village in France, following her undergraduate studies in industrial design. She has since focused her career on sustainability, creating digital content to promote sustainable living practices. Through platforms like YouTube, podcasts, Instagram, and TikTok, she raises awareness and reaches wide audiences. Currently, she works as a sustainability specialist at a corporate company, serves as an executive member of the Youth Council’s Climate, Environment, and Natural Disasters Group, and is the founder of Plastic Lab — Turkey’s first plastic materials workshop. She is also an active climate activist.

• Karya Sanver

  I am currently studying at ALKEV Anatolian High School as an IB student. I have been a member of FRC Team 6459 for four years and now, I actively serve as a youth mentor. In previous years, I have also participated in various art competitions, and took part in several events both within and outside the school.

• Kerem Bora

  He is a chemical engineer and biotechnology specialist. He has held various academic positions at Ege University and Sabancı University. He has conducted scientific research in areas such as fermentation technologies, biological hydrogen production, and co-fermentation of different types of microorganisms. He is currently working in the field of experimental evolution and developing systems that enable microorganisms to adapt to challenging environmental conditions.

• Melis Çıbıkçı

  I am currently studying within the IB program at ALKEV Private High School with a focus on political science. Since middle school, I have been deeply interested in mythology, and more recently, this interest has expanded to include typology. I enjoy sharing this passion with others through the use of diagrams and visual aids. As another reflection of my desire to speak and connect with people, I take part in FRC competitions as an Emcee and Game Announcer. This allows me to both engage with others and satisfy my constant urge to speak.

• Muhammet Kızıl

  Born in 1986 in Diyarbakır, Muhammet Kızıl completed his early years of education in Izmir. Having graduated from Middle East Technical University, Department of Civil Engineering, Mr. Kızıl has been working on major international projects for more than 15 years. Having worked on energy, infrastructure and industrial projects in many countries including Algeria, Turkmenistan, Iraq, Russia and Libya, Mr. Kızıl specialises in project control, budgeting and contract management. Fluent in Turkish, English, and Kurdish, as well as French, Russian, and Arabic, Mr Kizil has a strong competence in multilingual and intercultural communication. He makes strategic contributions to projects with his international experience, technical knowledge and leadership skills.

• Mustafa Güler

  2008 yılında Psikiyatrist Murat Dokur’dan Sosyal Hizmetler Derneği işbirliği ile aile danışmanlığı eğitimi aldım. 2017’de başladığım Yakın Doğu Üniversitesi Klinik Psikoloji yüksek lisansını 2019’da tamamladım. Hâlen Çocuk Bilim Özel Eğitim ve Rehabilitasyon Merkezi’nde müdürlük yapıyorum. Daha önce Özel Özel Eğitim Kurumları Derneği’nde yönetim kurulu üyesi olarak görev aldım. Şu anda İstanbul Rehabilitasyon Merkezleri Derneği ve Özel Özel Eğitim Dernekleri Federasyonu’nda başkan yardımcısı olarak STK temsilciliğim sürmektedir. Mezuniyetimden sonra İstanbul Büyükşehir Belediyesi'nde çalışmaya başladım; halkla ilişkiler ve sokak çocuklarına yönelik projelerde görev aldım. Ardından İBB’den ayrılarak İstanbul’un 13. Özel Eğitim ve Rehabilitasyon Merkezi’ni kurduk. 2004’te iki arkadaşımla birlikte Gaziosmanpaşa’nın ilk özel eğitim ve rehabilitasyon merkezi olan Çocuk Bilim’i açtık ve hâlen aynı kurumda çalışmaktayım. 1972 yılında Kırıkkale’de doğdum. İlkokuldan sonra Sivas Selçuk Anadolu Lisesi Almanca bölümünü yatılı olarak kazandım. Ortaokul ve lise boyunca eğitimimin yanında tiyatro ve sporla ilgilendim; okul ve amatör kulüplerde voleybol ve futbol oynadım. 1992’de Hacettepe Üniversitesi Sosyal Hizmetler Yüksekokulu'na girdim. Üniversite yıllarım boyunca dezavantajlı bireylerle çalışma fırsatı buldum ve tiyatro kulübünde sahne almaya devam ettim.

• Selim Kara

  I am currently studying at ALKEV Anatolian High School as an IB student. In 10th grade, I developed a TÜBİTAK science project, through which I gained valuable research and experimental experience. I was involved in the FRC Robotics Club at my first year at high school. Then I also involved in the Introduction to Engineering Design Club. In addition, I am also a licensed basketball player for 7 years and involved in school Basketball team.

• Selin Kenar

  I am Selin Kenar, an IB DP1 student at ALKEV Anatolian High-school. Having participated in multiple clubs such as Fashion Brand Management, guitar and film, I am currently a participant of our school’s Model United Nations club, and recently have been a part of RCIMUN’25. Out of school, I actively play tennis and the guitar.

• Selin Zeliha Kaya

  Selin Zeliha Kaya is a 12th-grade IB student at ALKEV Schools. Passionate about learning and personal growth, they enjoy exploring diverse fields and developing new perspectives through academic and extracurricular experiences.

• Serkan Kemal Büyükünal

  1978 yılında İstanbul’da doğdu. İlköğrenimine beş yaşında başladı ve lise eğitimini iki buçuk yılda dereceyle tamamladı. 1994’te İstanbul Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi’ne girerek öğrenci temsilciliği görevlerinde bulundu ve 1999’da dönem ikincisi olarak mezun oldu. Aynı yıl İstanbul Üniversitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Enstitüsü Besin Hijyeni ve Teknolojisi Anabilim Dalı’nda doktoraya başladı ve Veteriner Fakültesi’nde araştırma görevlisi olarak atandı. Doktorasını üç yılda tamamlamasına rağmen kadro yetersizliği nedeniyle tez savunması gecikti; 2005’te doktor unvanını aldı. Ardından vatani görevini Ağrı’da Gıda Kontrol Müfreze Komutanlığı’nda laboratuvar kısım amiri olarak yaptı, laboratuvarlara ISO/IEC 17025 akreditasyonu kazandırılmasına öncülük etti ve TSK tarafından takdir belgesiyle onurlandırıldı. Sivil hayatta özel bir gıda laboratuvarının kuruluşunda yer aldı; gıda üretimi, kalite yönetimi, gıda güvenliği ve maliyet analizi konularında danışmanlık verdi. Kamu ve özel sektörde çalışarak perakende alanında üst düzey yöneticilik yaptı; binlerce kişiye hijyen ve gıda güvenliği eğitimi verdi ve gençlere yönelik yönetici yetiştirme programlarında eğitmenlik yaptı. 2013’te akademiye dönerek İstanbul Arel Üniversitesi Beslenme ve Diyetetik Bölümü’ne yardımcı doçent olarak atandı. Bölüm başkanlığı ve beş yıl müdür yardımcılığı yaptı; eğitim altyapısının geliştirilmesi ve laboratuvar kurulumu süreçlerinde aktif görev aldı. 2018’de ÜAK tarafından doçent, aynı yıl İstanbul Üniversitesi - Cerrahpaşa Veteriner Fakültesi Gıda/Besin Hijyeni ve Teknolojisi Bölümü’nde Doç. Dr. unvanını aldı. 2024’te akademik çalışmaları ve eğitim faaliyetleri doğrultusunda profesörlüğe atandı. Fakülte yönetimi ve çeşitli komisyonlarda görev aldı; üniversiteye farklı üretim ve işleme tesisleri kazandırdı. On kitapta yazar, iki kitapta editör olarak yer aldı ve çok sayıda bilimsel makalesi bulunmaktadır. Evli ve bir kız çocuk babasıdır.