Filiz Celik is a former Turkish refugee and came to the UK over 20 years ago. She spoke to us at our meeting on 17 July and told us her story. Back in 1999 she was a graduate student from a Turkish University. She was unable to take up a post in Turkey because of views expressed at an international conference.
She admits she was fortunate that her family were able to help her, provide a passport and ensure she reached the UK. She took a position as an au pair in Hampshire, which is how Winchester member Gina came to know her. She was looking after two young boys for the vicar and living in the Rectory. She then sought asylum.
She succeeded through various refugee support agencies in getting support to do a PhD in the UK and now holds two posts. One as a lecturer at Swansea University and one in the NHS as a clinician in psychiatry.
She is a Muslim of a minority branch not often known about, the Alevi Muslim of which the population is about 10%. She told us that it was impossible for her to do what she wanted to do in her country because of the majority Sunni authorities. The Alevis agree in gender equality and have very open minds. She still has her parents and four sisters living in Turkey. They have been able to visit, but she is still unable to hold a position in the country.
Recently Filiz has been active in raising funds for the Turkish earthquake victims.
If you wish to find out more about Soroptimist International Winchester please email us on winchestersoroptimists@gmail.com