Rabia is the second eldest of five sisters. From as early as she can remember, she dreamed of becoming both a successful athlete and a successful student. She had a natural talent for a niche sport, indoor hockey, but in her hometown of Adıyaman, many people considered it inappropriate for girls to pursue sports, including her own parents.
Fighting her way onto the local team became a double struggle. Her talent and hard work alone were not enough; she also had to work hard to convince her parents to let her play.
Yet, she persisted.
For years, Rabia balanced training with school, traveling to tournaments with her books packed alongside her athletic gear. Her commitment eventually earned her a place on Türkiye's national team.
Wearing the national jersey changed more than Rabia's own life. Her success began to change the perspectives of those around her, including family members, relatives, and neighbors who had once questioned whether a girl should pursue sports at all. Today, one of the accomplishments she values most is knowing that younger girls from communities like hers can see her journey and imagine possibilities of their own.
As Rabia's achievements took her beyond Adıyaman, her ambitions grew with them. Competing as a national athlete and studying pharmacy introduced her to a much wider world, one where English could unlock access to international competitions, scientific knowledge, professional networks, and opportunities she had once only imagined.
For Rabia, learning English was not simply about mastering another language. It was about having the confidence and ability to participate fully in the world she was working so hard to enter.
Through Esas Sosyal and its Hayırlı Sabancı English Chance Program, another door opened. Selected from among thousands of applicants, Rabia entered the program with the feeling that she had been recognized for her potential—and left with a stronger belief in it herself. English became more than a skill; it became a key that opened new doors in her career, sporting life, and personal development.
Through training in leadership, networking, and time management, Rabia gained new perspectives and skills that complemented the determination and discipline she had already developed as an athlete and student. By the time she completed the program, she had not only strengthened her English, but also developed a deeper understanding of herself and a more conscious approach to her professional and personal growth.
That sense of possibility continued beyond the program. As Rabia competed in international tournaments, celebrated new achievements, and stepped into new opportunities, Esas Sosyal continued to follow her journey. Knowing that her achievements were being seen and celebrated gave her a lasting sense of belonging—the feeling that she had a strong team behind her, even after graduation.
Today, Rabia continues to pursue both of the dreams she held onto as a young girl. She is a national athlete and a pharmacy student, now with greater confidence, stronger skills, and access to a wider world of possibilities.
Her journey shows how opportunity can build upon opportunity. The chance to play became a national jersey. The chance to learn English became new confidence, connection, and possibilities in her sporting, academic, and professional life.
Perhaps most importantly, the girl who once had to convince others that she should be allowed to pursue her own dreams is now showing other girls that they can pursue theirs.