LONDON, UK – Olay Gazetesi, a Turkish-language newspaper that has served the Turkish-speaking community in the United Kingdom for 37 years, hosted its “Turkish Diaspora Unity and Solidarity Gathering” in London, bringing together diplomats, community leaders, business figures, journalists and readers for a discussion on the past, present and future of the Turkish community in Britain.

The event welcomed Republic of Türkiye Ambassador to London Osman Koray Ertaş, Consul General of Türkiye in London Ambassador Associate Professor Dr. Hasan Ulusoy, local officials, representatives of civil society organisations, business leaders, members of the media and numerous readers of Olay Gazetesi.

Held at 100 Green Lanes, Newington Green, London, the gathering extended beyond a traditional reader event, providing a platform for conversations about the shared history, cultural identity and future vision of the Turkish community living in the UK.

Before the programme began, guests viewed an archival presentation documenting Olay Gazetesi’s publishing journey from 1989 to the present, highlighting the social and cultural development of the Turkish community in Britain over the decades.

Publisher Reflects on Newspaper’s Legacy

Opening the event, Nural Ezel, Publisher of Olay Gazetesi, described the gathering as a significant milestone for the newspaper. Ezel explained that her association with the publication began in 1989 and that she became its owner in 2000 after accepting an offer to take over the newspaper.

She said the publication has continued without interruption, maintaining its role as a voice for the Turkish-speaking community since its establishment.

“We do not see journalism as simply reporting the news,” Ezel said. “One of our greatest responsibilities is to contribute to the integration of our community into British society, strengthen their sense of belonging, and provide accurate information to every segment of the community.”

Ezel also described Olay Gazetesi as a communication bridge that strengthens ties between Türkiye, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and the United Kingdom.

Diplomats Highlight the Value of Community Journalism

Ambassador Osman Koray Ertaş praised the newspaper’s 37-year publishing history, describing its contribution to documenting the experiences of the Turkish community in Britain as highly valuable.

“The work of recording our community’s stories, highlighting its achievements and bringing people together is extremely important,” Ertaş said.

Consul General Dr. Hasan Ulusoy reflected on his years as a student in London, sharing a light-hearted remark with attendees.

“Had my path crossed this place back then, perhaps I would have become a journalist,” he said.

Focus on Future Generations

Editor-in-Chief Nesin Fehmi said Olay Gazetesi has spent more than 25 years bringing together different sections of the Turkish-speaking community and will continue supporting young people, future generations and the community’s shared future.

Halil Erdoğan, UK Regional Representative of UID, also addressed the audience, highlighting the newspaper’s publishing journey over the years.

Alara Ayyıldız, Councillor for Cockfosters, Enfield Council, delivered a speech in English, recognising Olay Gazetesi’s 37-year contribution to serving the Turkish community in the UK and promoting community solidarity.

Additional speeches were delivered by Kenan Nafi, President of the Council of Turkish Cypriot Associations UK, and Eren Ramadan, Managing Director of Charles Ramsden Consultancy Services Ltd. and President of Young Turkish Cypriots.

Community Gathering Ends with Traditional Hospitality

Guests were served a selection of Turkish desserts and traditional dishes from Turkish Cypriot cuisine, creating a warm and festive atmosphere throughout the event.

Informal conversations continued as attendees from different backgrounds gathered around the same tables, reinforcing the event’s message of unity, solidarity and stronger community connections within the Turkish diaspora in the United Kingdom.