Welcome to Atatürk Scholarship

The Atatürk Scholarship was founded in 2020 by members of the Australian Turkish community to provide financial assistance to Australian students of Turkish ancestry who strive to excel in studies, enhancing peace and friendship between all people and all nations. 

The Scholarship provides financial assistance to students commencing their first year of tertiary study at a University or TAFE at Degree, Diploma or Advanced Diploma level, in the year of application, and a special Şarık Arıyak Memorial Bursary for the second year.

The Atatürk Scholarship also provides a special Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Memorial Bursary via the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund to the decedents of the ANZAC’s. This bursary was created to honour the Turkish origins of the Gallipoli Scholarship. The Mustafa Kemal Atatürk Memorial Bursary memorialises Atatürk’s famous words to the mothers of the ANZAC’s and the 106 years of the close relationship between the two countries.

 

2024 Atatürk Scholarship Winners

Scholars attending their 1st year of university

Sudenaz Kiran

Bachelor of Social Sciences
University of New South Wales

Sudenaz Kiran’s journey, marked by a passion for cultural advocacy, exemplifies resilience. Her active engagement in community service and intercultural dialogue spans from leadership roles in Istanbul to spearheading humanitarian projects in Sydney. Recognised for her contributions to community leaders, Sudenaz is pursuing Social Sciences at UNSW, focusing on Politics and International Relations. Her Turkish heritage deeply influences her commitment to societal improvement, making her an ideal recipient of the Ataturk Scholarship. Sudenaz’s story is a testament to the power of turning personal challenges into opportunities for community enrichment and intercultural understanding.

Yusuf Ömer Kiran

Bachelor of Bachelor of Medical Sciences
Macquarie University

Yusuf Ömer Kiran’s journey, through diverse educational and community experiences, reflects a commitment to cultural connection and social betterment. Overcoming personal challenges, Yusuf excelled in extracurricular activities, including leading initiatives at the Junior Model United Nations, engaging in environmental projects, and contributing to community service. Now embarking on a Bachelor of Medical Science at the University of Macquarie, Yusuf aims to blend his passion for global health with his rich cultural background. His story, marked by resilience and a drive for change, perfectly aligns with the values of the Ataturk Scholarship.

Teoman Ayhan Özbakır

Bachelor of Music (Performance)
University of Sydney

Teoman Ayhan Özbakır, embracing his profound passion for music, is embarking on a Bachelor of Music Performance. A testament to his dedication, Teoman has honed his skills in piano and flute through private lessons and contributed significantly to the Australian Turkish Music Ensemble. His participation in the NSW Senior State Wind Band and engagements with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra highlight his commitment to excellence in music. His journey reflects a harmonious blend of musical ambition and ancestral devotion, embodying the spirit of the Ataturk Scholarship.

Hazel Zeliha Bektas

Bachelor of Commerce and Advanced Studies
(Dalyell Scholars), majoring in marketing and economics
University of Sydney

Hazel Zeliha Bektas, from Baulkham Hills High School, is now pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce and Advanced Studies at the University of Sydney as a Dalyell Scholar. Specializing in marketing and economics, she demonstrated leadership as a prefect and Outreach group leader, actively engaging in charity events and school basketball. With Turkish roots inspiring her dedication, Hazel aims to alleviate the financial challenges of tertiary education. The Ataturk Scholarship supports her goal to focus on academic excellence and career opportunities in business.

2nd Year Sarik Ariyak
Memorial Bursary Winner

Gamze Bakan

Bachelor of Bachelor of Clinical
Sciences/Doctor of Medicine
Flinders University

Gamze Bakan, now in her second year at Flinders University studying for a Bachelor of Clinical Sciences/Doctor of Medicine, continues to illustrate the remarkable balance between academic pursuits and community leadership. As the former Mayor of the Rural City of Murray Bridge Youth Council, Gamze was pivotal in fostering youth engagement through various initiatives. Her tenure as a Year 12 Prefect further showcases her leadership qualities and dedication to her peers. Despite the significant commute from Murray Bridge to Adelaide for her studies, she remains committed to her education while managing part-time work to support herself. Gamze’s journey is a testament to the resilience and the drive to excel, underscoring the values of the Ataturk Scholarship.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Memorial Bursary.
Given via the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund

Clancy Toms

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Master of Engineering
The University of Queensland

Clancy David Toms, embarking on his first year of a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Master of Engineering at the University of Queensland, is honoured to receive the Mustafa Kemal Atatürk Memorial Bursary from the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund. Inspired by the unique bond between Turkish and Australian people, Clancy is driven by the values of reconciliation and mutual respect forged at Gallipoli. His great-grandparent, William Henry Thoburn Yarrow DCM, a WW2 veteran, influenced his aspirations in chemical engineering, embodying the spirit of collaboration and peace. Clancy’s leadership roles and dedication reflect his commitment to honouring this legacy through innovation and community service.