Yunus Emre InstituteThe International Encounters series, organized in collaboration between Lacivert Magazine and the Yunus Emre Enstitüsü – London, recently hosted events in London and Dublin, following previous gatherings in Hungary, Kosovo, and Germany earlier in 2023.
On May 15, the British Library in London served as the venue, while the series continued on May 16 at the Thomas Davis Theatre in the Arts and Social Sciences Building at Trinity College Dublin. The events featured esteemed authors, journalists, and cultural figures from Turkey, including Yunus Emre Institute President Prof. Dr. Şeref Ateş, London Yunus Emre Institute Director Mehmet Karakuş, and Turkuaz Media Magazines Director Yasemin Gebeş. The Dublin session also welcomed Turkish Ambassador to Ireland Mehmet Hakan Olcay as a distinguished guest.
The events aimed to foster cultural exchange and build bridges between different communities. Speakers shared anecdotes and insights from their respective fields in an interactive environment, allowing attendees from across the UK and Ireland to engage in meaningful dialogue and learn from one another.
Mustafa Akar, poet and editor-in-chief of Lacivert Magazine, emphasized the universal language of literature, highlighting its power to transcend borders and connect people. Through examples from his poetry, he explored how literature touches the human spirit and facilitates understanding between cultures.
İbrahim Altay, editor-in-chief of Daily Sabah, focused on the media’s role in shaping cultural perceptions. He discussed how journalism can be made more inclusive and highlighted the responsibility of media in promoting cultural dialogue and societal understanding.
Clinical psychologist Beyhan Budak examined the intersection of psychology and literature, discussing how storytelling and character analysis can provide a deeper understanding of human behavior and emotions. He underscored the ability of literature to convey the complexities of human experience.
Author and screenwriter Tarık Tufan reflected on the societal impact of literature and its connection to collective psychology. Drawing from his works, he illustrated literature’s role in addressing social issues, inspiring change, and shaping individual worldviews.
Through its events in London and Dublin, the International Encounters series provided a vibrant platform for cultural dialogue, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain insights into diverse perspectives and experience the value of cultural exchange first hand.