Testimonials
Beyza (Sparks-USA Season 2 participant)
Participating in the SPARK USA Leadership Program has been an incredibly enriching experience. This six-month initiative has provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop leadership skills, enhance cultural awareness, and focus on self-development. Through interactive workshops, insightful discussions, and mentorship, I have gained a deeper understanding of effective communication, teamwork, decision-making, and critical thinking—essential skills for a successful global career.
One of the most profound realizations I had during this program was about my own approach to leadership. As a woman navigating a male-dominated field, I always believed that I needed to appear serious at all times to be taken seriously. However, this sometimes made me seem unapproachable. Through SPARK USA, I became more self-aware and learned that confidence and approachability are not mutually exclusive. This realization has been transformative, and I am actively working on finding the right balance.
Beyond skill-building, SPARK USA has fostered a supportive community of ambitious women, empowering us to embrace our unique perspectives and values. The program’s emphasis on leadership and personal growth has given me the confidence and tools to navigate complex professional environments with a global mindset.
I am truly grateful to TWI (Turkish Women Initiative) for creating this inspiring platform. The experience has helped me grow not only as a leader but also as an individual, and I highly recommend it to women looking to enhance their leadership capabilities and expand their career horizons.
Beyza (Sparks-USA Season 2 participant)
Participating in the SPARK USA Leadership Program has been an incredibly enriching experience. This six-month initiative has provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop leadership skills, enhance cultural awareness, and focus on self-development. Through interactive workshops, insightful discussions, and mentorship, I have gained a deeper understanding of effective communication, teamwork, decision-making, and critical thinking—essential skills for a successful global career.
One of the most profound realizations I had during this program was about my own approach to leadership. As a woman navigating a male-dominated field, I always believed that I needed to appear serious at all times to be taken seriously. However, this sometimes made me seem unapproachable. Through SPARK USA, I became more self-aware and learned that confidence and approachability are not mutually exclusive. This realization has been transformative, and I am actively working on finding the right balance.
Beyond skill-building, SPARK USA has fostered a supportive community of ambitious women, empowering us to embrace our unique perspectives and values. The program’s emphasis on leadership and personal growth has given me the confidence and tools to navigate complex professional environments with a global mindset.
I am truly grateful to TWI (Turkish Women Initiative) for creating this inspiring platform. The experience has helped me grow not only as a leader but also as an individual, and I highly recommend it to women looking to enhance their leadership capabilities and expand their career horizons.
Catalina (SPARKS-USA Season 3 participant)
I’m so thankful to have been part of this program. It’s been such an incredible journey, one that has taught me so much and truly changed the way I see myself and my path forward. Being surrounded by strong, inspiring women who believed in me, encouraged me, and helped me build confidence has meant the world. Their support and wise advice reminded me of what I’m capable of, and helped me refocus on my career goals here in the U.S. I’ve learned to use powerful tools, trust in my abilities, and most of all, I’ve had the chance to connect with some truly amazing mentors and people. Thank you for making this experience so meaningful.
Catalina (SPARKS-USA Season 3 participant)
I’m so thankful to have been part of this program. It’s been such an incredible journey, one that has taught me so much and truly changed the way I see myself and my path forward. Being surrounded by strong, inspiring women who believed in me, encouraged me, and helped me build confidence has meant the world. Their support and wise advice reminded me of what I’m capable of, and helped me refocus on my career goals here in the U.S. I’ve learned to use powerful tools, trust in my abilities, and most of all, I’ve had the chance to connect with some truly amazing mentors and people. Thank you for making this experience so meaningful.
Melis Seray Erim (SPARKS-USA Season 3 participant)
I’m truly grateful to have joined SPARKS-USA while settling into a new life in Los Angeles. I first got involved by volunteering on the marketing side, helping spread the word about the program. But the more I learned, the more I felt called to experience it from within. What followed was a powerful journey of reflection, connection, and growth. Each week, we learned from inspiring leaders whose stories and insights stayed with me. What I thought would be a helpful experience quickly became something essential, especially for young professional women trying to find their voice in the United States. SPARKS-USA helped me become more self-aware. I realized how often I hold back to keep the peace, and I began learning how to speak up with clarity while staying rooted in empathy. It completely changed the way I view leadership. It is not about taking control, but about creating space where everyone feels seen and heard. One of the most eye-opening parts of this journey was hearing different perspectives from women born all over the world. Those conversations helped me expand the way I think, listen, and lead. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to Professor Nurcan Ensari, who built this program with vision, care, and incredible dedication. And special thanks to our mentor Yesim Merter, whose steady support and guidance throughout this season were truly irreplaceable. I am so proud to be part of this journey.
Melis Seray Erim (SPARKS-USA Season 3 participant)
I’m truly grateful to have joined SPARKS-USA while settling into a new life in Los Angeles. I first got involved by volunteering on the marketing side, helping spread the word about the program. But the more I learned, the more I felt called to experience it from within. What followed was a powerful journey of reflection, connection, and growth. Each week, we learned from inspiring leaders whose stories and insights stayed with me. What I thought would be a helpful experience quickly became something essential, especially for young professional women trying to find their voice in the United States. SPARKS-USA helped me become more self-aware. I realized how often I hold back to keep the peace, and I began learning how to speak up with clarity while staying rooted in empathy. It completely changed the way I view leadership. It is not about taking control, but about creating space where everyone feels seen and heard. One of the most eye-opening parts of this journey was hearing different perspectives from women born all over the world. Those conversations helped me expand the way I think, listen, and lead. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to Professor Nurcan Ensari, who built this program with vision, care, and incredible dedication. And special thanks to our mentor Yesim Merter, whose steady support and guidance throughout this season were truly irreplaceable. I am so proud to be part of this journey.
Ecem Bozkurt
This leadership program was a transformative experience, giving me the confidence to navigate challenges as an immigrant woman. It provided space for self-reflection and equipped me with strategies to overcome barriers. The charisma workshops were especially impactful, strengthening my presence and leadership skills. I leave empowered, with a strong sense of self and a network of inspiring women.
Ecem Bozkurt
This leadership program was a transformative experience, giving me the confidence to navigate challenges as an immigrant woman. It provided space for self-reflection and equipped me with strategies to overcome barriers. The charisma workshops were especially impactful, strengthening my presence and leadership skills. I leave empowered, with a strong sense of self and a network of inspiring women.
