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The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (U.N. Women) has officially appointed Eda Erdem Dundar, captain of Fenerbahce Medicana and the Turkish National Women’s Volleyball Team, as its Goodwill Ambassador for Türkiye.
The announcement was made during a special ceremony held in Istanbul on the eve of the International Day of the Girl Child.
The event marked a significant milestone in promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls through the influence of sports.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Sadettin Saran, President of Fenerbahce Sports Club; Orhan Demirel, the Club’s General Secretary; Ecem Turker Kavaz, Manager of Fenerbahce Medicana Women’s Volleyball Team; and players Gizem Orge, Fatma Beyaz, Arelya Karasoy Kocas and Liza Safranova.
Other attendees included Yagmur Uraz, captain of Fenerbahce’s women’s football team; Melih Mahmutoglu, captain of the Fenerbahce Beko basketball team; and former club executive Simla Turker Bayazıt.
At the event, U.N. Women’s Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, Belen Sanz Luque, and Türkiye Country Director, Maryse Guimond, delivered remarks highlighting the importance of sports in advancing gender equality.
Following their speeches, Eda Erdem Dundar addressed the audience, expressing her gratitude and commitment to her new role.
Fenerbahce President Sadettin Saran praised Erdem’s appointment, emphasizing her exemplary leadership:
“Eda has once again made us proud. As the father of a daughter, this has special significance for me. Our support for women is not just in words—54% of executives in my company are women. Eda’s appointment as ambassador is truly well-deserved. She continues to inspire young girls, both on and off the court. We are proud to see Fenerbahce at the forefront of such meaningful initiatives.”
Dundar, visibly moved by the honor, shared her aspirations for the role:
“I am deeply proud and excited. Being appointed as U.N. Women’s Goodwill Ambassador for Türkiye is an immense honor and responsibility. I am aware of the influence I have on women and young girls, and I will use this title to be their voice across our country. Not only in sports, but in every aspect of life, we will strive for a safer and more equal environment for all women and girls. Our slogan says it all—'Our Voice, Our Strength.' Together, we will make our voices heard even louder.”
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