A Meaningful Gathering by Olay Newspaper, the Voice of the Turkish-Speaking Community in London
By Alpaslan Düven – London
Olay Newspaper, which has served as the voice of the Turkish-speaking community in the United Kingdom for 37 years, hosted the “Turkish Diaspora Unity and Solidarity Gathering” in London, marking an important milestone for the community.
The event brought together the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the United Kingdom, Osman Koray Ertaş, the Consul General of Türkiye in London, Ambassador Associate Professor Dr. Hasan Ulusoy, local officials, representatives of civil society organisations, business leaders, members of the press, and many readers of Olay Newspaper. The gathering focused on the past, present, and future of the Turkish community in the UK.
Held at 100 Green Lanes, Newington Green, London, the event was far more than a readers’ meeting. It provided a meaningful platform where the shared history, cultural ties, and future vision of the Turkish community in Britain were celebrated and discussed.
Before the official programme began, guests watched an archival presentation highlighting Olay Newspaper’s publishing journey from 1989 to the present day. The presentation offered participants an opportunity to reflect on the social and cultural development of the Turkish community in the UK over the past decades.
Opening the event, Olay Newspaper’s Publisher, Nural Ezel, said the gathering held special significance for the newspaper. Ezel explained that his association with Olay Newspaper dates back to 1989 and that he became its owner in 2000 after accepting an offer to take over the publication.
The Importance of the Newspaper Highlighted
Ezel stated that since then, he has continued publishing Olay Newspaper without interruption, maintaining its mission of serving as the voice of the Turkish community.
“We do not see journalism simply as reporting the news. Our greatest responsibility is to support the integration of our community into British society, strengthen their sense of belonging, and provide accurate information to people from all walks of life,” he said.
Ezel also described Olay Newspaper as a communication bridge strengthening the ties between Türkiye, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and the United Kingdom.
Speaking at the event, Türkiye’s Ambassador to the UK, Osman Koray Ertaş, praised the newspaper’s 37-year publishing history and emphasised the importance of documenting the stories of the Turkish community living in Britain.
“The work carried out by Olay Newspaper in recording our community’s stories, highlighting its achievements, and bringing people together is truly invaluable,” Ambassador Ertaş said.
Türkiye’s Consul General in London, Ambassador Associate Professor Dr. Hasan Ulusoy, recalled his years as a student in London and jokingly remarked, “If my path had crossed this place back then, perhaps I would have become a journalist as well,” drawing smiles from the audience.
A Festive Atmosphere
Olay Newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief, Nesin Fehmi, noted that for more than 25 years the newspaper has worked to bring together different segments of the Turkish-speaking community under one roof. He added that Olay Newspaper will continue contributing to younger generations and to the shared future of the community.
Halil Erdoğan, Regional Representative of UID UK, also spoke about the newspaper’s long publishing journey and its contribution to the Turkish diaspora.
Councillor Alara Ayyıldız of Cockfosters, Enfield Council, delivered a speech in English, highlighting Olay Newspaper’s 37-year contribution to the Turkish community in the UK and its role in promoting solidarity and community cohesion.
Among the distinguished guests was Deputy Chairwoman Hülya Özkoyuncu, who praised Olay Newspaper for its longstanding contribution to the Turkish-speaking community in the United Kingdom.
Speaking at the event, Özkoyuncu said that community media play a vital role in preserving cultural identity while helping new generations remain connected to their heritage.
“For nearly four decades, Olay Newspaper has been much more than a newspaper. It has been a trusted voice, bringing people together, celebrating our achievements, and strengthening the bonds within our community. Events like this remind us that unity, solidarity, and cooperation are essential for building a stronger future for the Turkish diaspora in the UK. I congratulate everyone who has contributed to this remarkable legacy and wish Olay Newspaper continued success in the years ahead,” she said.
The event also featured speeches 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.
Guests enjoyed an assortment of traditional Turkish desserts generously provided by Hafız Mustafa 1864, the historic Istanbul confectionery founded in 1864 and renowned for its baklava, Turkish delight, and other classic sweets. The event concluded in a warm and festive atmosphere, as people from different backgrounds gathered around the same table, reinforcing the values of unity, solidarity, and community.
