We are honored to welcome back Mustafa Kemal Abadan, who served as TPF Board Chair between 2012-2014. Mustafa Kemal, also member of TPF’s Founders Society, brings a distinguished career and a deep dedication to philanthropy. His leadership and vision will guide TPF in its mission to empower communities and create sustainable impact. “I am honored to take on the role of Chairman at TPF once again,” said Abadan. “Together with our new and current Board members, we will strive to amplify our efforts and drive meaningful change for our communities both in the United States and in Turkiye.”
Joining him on the Board are:
Gamze Ateş – With extensive experience in entrepreneurship and women empowerment through her fair trade company, My Beachy Side, Gamze’s expertise will be invaluable in shaping TPF’s strategies and initiatives. “I am excited to rejoin the TPF Board and contribute to the impactful work being done,” said Ateş. “I look forward to working with my fellow Board members and Mustafa Kemal Abadan to enhance our initiatives and support our communities.”
Ergün Kırlıkovalı – A respected figure in the Turkish-American community, Ergün’s insights and knowledge will enhance TPF’s ability to address pressing social issues. “Being part of TPF’s Board is a great privilege,” Kırlıkovalı remarked. “My motto in life is to always strive to be better than I was yesterday. TPF shares this same approach in all its endeavors. The TPF Team asks themselves every day how they can improve. I am eager to lend my experience to help further this vision and ensure we reach new heights in our philanthropic efforts.“
Tamer Seçkin – A pioneer in the field of gynecology, Dr. Seçkin is renowned for his groundbreaking work in the treatment of endometriosis. His innovative approach and dedication to women’s health have earned him international acclaim. Driven by his passion for philanthropy, Dr. Seçkin will play a pivotal role in advancing TPF’s mission to create a meaningful impact.
Each of these new Board members brings a unique perspective and years of experience that will contribute to TPF’s goals of creating positive social impact and empowering individuals and communities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mustafa Kemal Abadan as our new Chairman and to have Gamze Ateş, Ergün Kırlıkovalı, and Dr. Tamer Seçkin join our Board of Directors,” said Senay Ataselim-Yilmaz, the Executive Director of TPF. “Their collective expertise, unique perspectives and passion for philanthropy will be instrumental in advancing our mission and expanding our reach.”
TPF will continue to focus on key initiatives such as education, healthcare, disaster relief, and economic development, ensuring that resources are directed where they are needed most and can make the greatest impact.
For more information about Turkish Philanthropy Funds and its initiatives, please visit www.tpfund.org.
Mustafa Kemal Abadan Bio:
Mustafa Kemal Abadan is a design partner in the architectural firm of Skidmore Owings and Merrill LLP (SOM). Educated at Cornell University’s College of Architecture, Art and Planning, he received his Bachelor of Architecture in 1982 and a Master of Architecture in Urban Design in 1984. Mustafa joined SOM in 1983 and has been with the firm for 33 years.
Gamze Ateş Bio:
Gamze Ateş is a social entrepreneur who founded and runs My Beachy Side, a sustainable resort wear brand that provides economic opportunity to more than a thousand women in five offices in her native Turkey. Her brand is sold worldwide in major luxury retailers including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Revolve. Prior to launching My Beachy Side, she was the founder of Admiral Line, Inc., an international shipping company that was acquired by DHL Worldwide, where she was a Executive Vice President, managing 82 countries in emerging markets for the Global Customer Solutions Division. Gamze has also served as the New York editor for Turkish Vogue. She lives in New York City.
Ergün Kırlıkovalı Bio:
Born in Izmir, Turkey in 1952, Ergün Kırlıkovalı earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Bogazici University, Istanbul in 1974. He interned in Austria (1973) and Holland (1974) before completing an M.S. in Polymer Science at the University of Manchester, England in 1975. Kırlıkovalı worked for polymer companies in San Francisco (1978-1981), New York (1982-1985), and Los Angeles (1985-present). In 1985, he founded his own company specializing in polymer coatings for stealth technology in fighter aircraft like the B2 and F35. Active in the community, he was president of the Assembly of Turkish American Associations (2011-2013) and received numerous awards, including “Exemplary Turkish-American Citizen of the Year” in 2018. His hobbies include folk dancing, travel, and historical research. He is married with one son and resides in Southern California.
Tamer Seçkin Bio:
Tamer Seçkin, MD, is a world-renowned gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon specializing in endometriosis. With over four decades of experience, he excels in minimally invasive excision surgery, skillfully treating advanced cases. Dr. Seçkin founded the Endometriosis Foundation of America (EndoFound) to promote awareness, education, and research for the disease. By challenging taboos and stigmas, he has revolutionized the understanding that painful periods are not normal, gaining international recognition for his efforts. His best-selling books, “The Doctor Will See You Now: Recognizing and Treating Endometriosis” and “Endometriosis: A Guide for Girls,” offer valuable insights for patients. He also serves as a Clinical Associate Professor at Zucker School of Medicine, sharing his expertise with future medical professionals.
