In continuing its philosophy of “raising globally-minded individuals”, Tarabya British Schools recently hosted Leyla Alaton, the director of Alarko Holdings and one of Turkey’s leading female entrepreneurs. Ms Alaton presented a “Success Stories” seminar attended by members of the PTA, and teachers and students from our primary and high school.

Ms Alaton talked about her education in New Jersey and New York, and of her first business venture exporting Turkish leather belts to the US before returning to Turkey to work at her father’s real estate company. Ms Alaton then started her own company, which did many different projects. She now runs a company that produces items for the medical industry.

In answer to questions from the audience she talked about what it was like being a woman in the business world. Explaining that women need to use more than good looks to be successful, Ms Alaton emphasised the importance of education in breeding success as beauty can contribute to negative perceptions of women. She also talked about there being fine line between aggression and assertiveness, and how men can confuse them when dealing with a woman.

Another question found our guest encouraging students to work hard and to avoid the dangers of cigarettes, alcohol and drink driving. The final question asked was “Are you a feminist?” Leyla explained her firm belief in the need for feminism, explaining that she works as a mentor for women in business.

Ms Alaton closed her talk by comparing life to a roll of toilet paper. At the beginning when the roll is new, it goes slowly, but at the end it goes fast.

The talk was well received by all, and lunch time was taken up by many conversations about feminism, college life and how fast time goes.