25/07/2025
Hundreds of Students from 30 Countries Gathered at İstinye University’s InterYouth Festival!
Hundreds of university students from around the world came together in Istanbul to celebrate cultural diversity at the InterYouth Festival. Organized as part of the May 19 Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day, the event featured traditional cuisine, clothing, and dances, creating a vibrant cultural showcase. This year marked the third edition of the International Youth Festival, hosted by İstinye University, with participation from students representing 80 countries and cultural stands from 30 of them. The festival aimed to foster a global network of solidarity among young people.
“A Celebration of Unity in Diversity”
İstinye University Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Peyami Çelikcan emphasized the significance of intercultural exchange:
“Every year, we organize this event to enable our international students—who come from over 80 countries—to share their traditions and values with both Turkish students and one another. Our goal is to show that differences are not a source of conflict but of connection.”
He added: “We aim to create awareness that differences are a bridge to peace and enrichment. Students gain insight into the cultural worlds of their peers and build friendships, which helps shape a more colorful and connected world. Turkish students host the event, and our Turkish stand is always one of the most prominent. This year, we also included a traditional costume fashion show, as well as dance and art workshops focusing on Turkish arts. Through hands-on activities, music, and shared experiences, we create a meaningful and festive environment.”
“We Will Expand the Festival with Tournaments and Competitions”
Festival Coordinator and Head of the Department of Foreign Languages, Özlem Salı, stated:
“We organize this festival each year during the week of May 19 to allow our international students and faculty to represent their cultures. About 30 countries are represented through clothing, food, music, and dance. At the center of the festival grounds is the Turkish stand, one of our highlights. We also provide Turkish language education to foreign students. The festival is a chance for students to showcase and celebrate their cultural identities.”
She announced future plans: “We intend to expand the festival into a two- or three-day event. By inviting universities from around the world, we hope to organize sports tournaments under the name ‘InterYouth Cup’ and dance competitions to make the festival even more dynamic and inclusive.”
“Festivals Like This Help Spread Cultural Awareness”
Dr. Ayla Tuncer, a Chinese academic at İstinye University, shared:
“I’m representing Chinese culture through the Chinese-Turkish Association. Events like this are vital for spreading our cultural heritage. China is a global power, and we want to showcase our language and cuisine. I’ll be writing attendees’ names in Chinese and offering food from my region.”
“We’re Proud to Represent Our Culture”
Saule Darmenova, an International Trade and Business student, said:
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to represent our culture and connect with people from other countries. I’m already enjoying the event very much.”
“It’s a Great Honor to Represent Azerbaijan Here”
Ilkin Shahmamadov, a Molecular Biology and Genetics student from Azerbaijan, stated:
“As a student from Azerbaijan, Turkey’s brother nation, it’s a great honor to be here. I’ll do my best to represent my country’s culture. Getting to know other cultures broadens our worldview. Thanks to Rector Erkan İbiş and İstinye University for making this possible.”