Republic Ball from ANTGİAD

A Republic Ball was organized by ANTGİAD (Antalya Young Businesspeople Association) in a hotel to commemorate the 101st anniversary of the Republic.
The event, attended by ANTGİAD members, former ANTGİAD presidents, representatives of civil society organizations, and a large number of guests, emphasized the commitment to the founder of the Republic of Turkey, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and the achievements of the Republic. In his opening speech at the ball, ANTGİAD President Ercan Yavaş highlighted the values of freedom, equality, and popular sovereignty of the Republic, reminding the audience of the steps Turkey has taken towards modernization through Atatürk’s revolutions. Yavaş emphasized ANTGİAD’s determination as young entrepreneurs to uphold the bright legacy of the Republic, stating, “The Republic is, as Atatürk said, ‘the protector of the helpless.’ In the light of this fundamental philosophy, we promise to embrace every value of the Republic wholeheartedly and to keep it alive forever.” Yavaş spoke about the importance of the achievements of the Republic, such as education, women’s rights, secularism, agriculture, and economic independence, and conveyed a message about ANTGİAD’s strong steps towards preserving these values.

“Education is the cornerstone of the Republic”
Yavaş emphasized that one of the cornerstones of the Republic is education, stating that contemporary education is the most important element of the country’s development. He expressed that they walk in the footsteps of Atatürk’s vision of enlightening society through education, asserting that ensuring equal opportunities in education and preparing young people for the future is the most significant way to reach the modern and progressive goals of the Republic. Yavaş stated that they will continue to support young people as ANTGİAD, saying, “Without education, it is impossible for us to reach brighter tomorrows.”

“Women’s rights are one of the most important achievements of the Republic”
In his speech, Yavaş emphasized that women’s rights are one of the most significant achievements of the Republic. He drew attention to the importance of Atatürk’s revolutions that opened up space for women in social and economic life, expressing that the empowerment of women in business, politics, and social fields is vital for the country’s development. Yavaş stated that they take pride in the successes of ANTGİAD’s female members and that they will continue to work to ensure women are more active in business and social life.

Peace and the fight against terrorism
Yavaş stated that one of the fundamental values of the Republic is peace, emphasizing Atatürk’s principle of “Peace at Home, Peace in the World,” and noted that peace is more important than ever in the geography where Turkey is located. He pointed out that the fight against terrorism must be maintained without compromise for the security of the country and the tranquility of the people, expressing ANTGİAD’s sensitivity on this issue. Yavaş stated that a society with peace and tranquility can develop more rapidly in economic and social terms, and he expressed that they guide the young generations, who are the guarantee of the Republic, with this awareness.

Concert by Gökhan Tepe
Later in the evening, famous artist Gökhan Tepe provided a musical feast for the guests. With his wonderful performance contributing to the enthusiasm of the Republic, the artist received great applause as he enabled all guests at the ball to fully experience the energy of Republic Day with Turkish flags and Atatürk posters in their hands. In the evening attended by former presidents of ANTGİAD as well, all guests celebrated Republic Day with enthusiasm, accompanied by Turkish flags and Atatürk posters.