About Us

Dear Friends,

The Nasrettin Hoca Foundation was established in 2019 by Ülkü Gözen Stewart, and James Oguz Stewart 

Mrs. Stewart is a passionate writer and cultural advocate, with the mission to preserve and share the timeless wisdom and humor of Nasrettin Hoca. Our journey began in 2019, rooted in a deep appreciation for Nasrettin Hoca's unique blend of wit and insight, which continues to resonate across cultures and generations.

Ülkü Gözen Stewart, known for her literary work "Vurdum Dibine,","Ali Veli Kirk Dokuz Elli Yedi", Cihangir in Ordabulari", "Kozlu Sozler", "Cay Ciceim","Allahin Kizi", "Am'Erica" and her childrens book "Esmer Kedi Cafer"

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has always been inspired by Nasrettin Hoca's tales, which challenge conventional thinking and encourage a reflective approach to everyday situations.

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At the Nasrettin Hoca Foundation, we are committed to introducing his legacy to new generations. Through a variety of programs—including storytelling festivals, educational workshops, creative competitions, and cultural events—we aim to make his teachings accessible and engaging. Our initiatives are designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of diverse cultural perspectives.

We invite you to join us in this endeavor. Whether through volunteering your time, participating in our events, sharing your own interpretations of Nasrettin Hoca's tales, or supporting our mission financially, your involvement is invaluable. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of Nasrettin Hoca continues to inspire and enlighten for generations to come.

Thank you for being a part of our community.

Warm regards,

Ülkü Gözen Stewart Founder & Executive Director Nasrettin Hoca Foundation

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Kamil Celal Oguz Safoglu,

He is known as Mr. Kamil (James Stewart), has been a dedicated firefighter since 1994, responding to countless rescues both domestically and internationally. His bravery and commitment to saving lives have earned him widespread recognition, including from the Prior Mayor of Ocean City, Mr. Jim Matthias, who honored him in 1995 for his selflessness, volunteerism, and putting his life on the line for the citizens.

In addition to his firefighting duties, Mr. Kamil has been an active member of the Red Cross National and International Disaster Relief Organization. His commitment to humanitarian efforts was notably highlighted in 1999 when he coordinated and led a rescue team to respond to earthquake victims. His leadership and team-oriented approach were crucial in providing assistance to those in need during the disaster.

Mr. Kamil also has an impressive background in firefighting competitions. As a member of the Ocean City Volunteer Firefighter Combat Team, he and his relay team achieved 3rd place in the World Firefighter Combat Challenge, showcasing his skills and physical endurance in challenging conditions.

Furthermore, Mr. Kamil is certified by FEMA for disaster operations, further solidifying his expertise in emergency management and disaster response. His lifelong dedication to saving lives and serving his community stands as a testament to his character and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Warm Regards from the Co- founder of the Nasrettin Hoca Foundation USA 

James O Stewart

 

 

PEKCAN TURKES

 

Director Officer and our legal adviser Mr. Pekcan Türkeş, born in 1949 in Mardin, Turkey, worked at TRT Istanbul Radio from 1966 to 2011, engaging in voice acting, playwriting, and directing. He is best known for his portrayal of the character “Yusuf Yusuf Usta” in the TV series Olacak O Kadar. Throughout his career, he performed at numerous theaters, including Dormen Theater, State Theater, Ali Poyrazoğlu’s Theater Group, Bakırköy Comedy Theater, Ankara Players, Tuncay Özinel Theater, Levent Kırca, Oya Başar Theater, Abdullah Şahin Nokta Theater, Gayrettepe Players, and Enver Demirkan Virgül Theater.

Since 2018, Pekcan Türkeş has been hosting a TV program called Lezzetli Sohbetler (Delicious Conversations) on SAT7TÜRK TV every Friday, where he discusses topics related to law and tourism.

His first play, Uçan Daire (Flying Disc), marked his debut in the world of theater, followed by other plays such as Kıbrıs Mücahidesi Fatma Kadın (Cypriot Freedom Fighter Fatma Woman), Kime Niyet Kime Kısmet (Who Plans, Who Gets Lucky), Kralın Diş Ağrısı (The King’s Toothache), Çizmeli Kedi (Puss in Boots), Bidondaki Çıplak (The Naked in the Barrel), and Ergenekon Destanı (Epic of Ergenekon), which were performed in various theaters.

Pekcan Türkeş also contributed to Hayat Resimli Roman Dergisi (Life Illustrated Novel Magazine) from 1967 to 1977, where he translated hundreds of stories from various languages, including works by authors such as O. Henry, Guy de Maupassant, Anton Chekhov, W. Somerset Maugham, Ephraim Kishon, and Peck Nack.

He is fluent in English, French, Italian (certified by Casa d'Italia Italian Cultural Center for Converzione and Cultura), Spanish, and Arabic (with a diploma from the Libya Cultural Center, 1980-1983). In 1978, he attended courses at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and became a certified professional tourist guide in both French and English. His "THE STORIES OF NASREDDIN HODJA" has been very popular books for the childrens.