A conversation with Hülya Afat
Hülya Afat and Jo Havemann explored the intersection of politics, education, and sustainability, offering valuable insights into how collaboration and community-building can drive positive change. Hülya highlighted the challenges facing higher education in Turkey, emphasizing the need for collective action to address political and social issues. Her work with Oikos, an organization dedicated to sustainable education, reflects her commitment to ecological economics and fostering impactful initiatives.
The conversation also delved into the untapped potential of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok for NGOs and student organizations. While Hülya stressed the importance of creating engaging, resourceful content, Jo raised concerns about social media addiction, advocating for a balanced approach that combines digital inspiration with real-world engagement.
A key theme of the discussion was the importance of cultivating a community-oriented work culture. Hülya and Jo underscored the value of traditions like check-ins and check-outs to foster empathy and clear communication within teams. They agreed on the need for a holistic approach to team building, where professionalism and human connection coexist.
The podcast also spotlighted Oikos’s impactful initiatives, such as their annual hackathon, consulting services on sustainable business models, and monthly impact talks. Hülya shared her vision for adapting education to modern needs, emphasizing the importance of bridging traditional methods with innovative approaches to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving world.
About Hülya Afat
Hülya Afat, Co-President of oikos Consulting, began her sustainability journey when she joined oikos Istanbul in 2021. After graduating from Boğazici University with a bachelor’s degree in Economics, she joined oikos Consulting in 2023. In oikos Consulting, she and her team co-create a space for students to gain experience and training on how to become sustainability consultants and how to shape the future of consulting in a holistic way.
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