Uniting Cultures 
 Enriching Lives
 Enriching Lives  Enriching Lives 
Our journey began in 1962 when the Ozan family settled in Miami. The following year, they connected with Mehmet Ilter and Maureen, gradually meeting other Turks in the area. By 1967, the first chapter of the Florida Turkish-American Association (FTAA) was formed, with Kaya Kocaman as the first President.
FTAA’s initial activities included social gatherings, cultural events, and supporting the Turkish community. However, the organization faced challenges, including the tragic fire-bombing of the Tampa Honorary Turkish Consul General’s house. Despite this, FTAA continued to grow and serve the community.
In 1983, FTAA was revived by Turkish engineers and the community. Mahmut Esat Ozan was elected President, and the organization was officially registered as a Florida non-profit. Over the next five years, FTAA expanded significantly, with a growing membership and more organized activities.
During this period, FTAA became a cultural hub, organizing festivals, concerts, and other events to promote Turkish culture in South Florida. Notable leaders like Mustafa Cankat and Ismail Ercan contributed to the organization’s growth, establishing FTAA as a 501(c)(3) organization and organizing the first Florida Turkish American Festival.
During Serap Odabas-Yigit’s presidency starting in 2008, FTAA made significant strides, including moving into the newly constructed Florida Turkish Center. The Center became a focal point for the community, hosting numerous events and cultural activities. Fundraising efforts, such as the “Take A Seat” campaign, successfully raised $35,000 for the Center. Collaboration with various organizations and the launch of the Florida Turkish Festival website further enhanced FTAA’s outreach.
Fuat Ornarli’s presidency from 2011 brought innovative changes to FTAA, including new technologies like membership cards, mobile apps, and updated websites. The organization hosted numerous cultural events, including festivals, picnics, and lectures, fostering relationships with various ethnic groups and local authorities. The FTAA’s financial health improved, with substantial loan repayments and increased net income, laying a strong foundation for future growth.
FTAA continued to flourish under the leadership of Zeynep Uluer Aytekin (2013), Serap Odabas-Yigit’s second term (2015), and Ayşegül Çolak (2017-2018). The organization’s dedication to cultural preservation and community service earned it the title of the most hardworking association by the American Turkish Assembly of Associations (ATAA). FTAA’s ongoing initiatives, including book clubs, history clubs, and volunteer appreciation events, further solidified its role as a pillar of the Turkish-American community in Florida.
FTAA’s success is a testament to the dedication of its past presidents and members. From its humble beginnings to becoming a significant cultural institution in Florida, FTAA remains committed to promoting Turkish culture and serving the community.
Since Mehmet Akçay’s election as FTAA President in 2019, the organization has upheld its mission of fostering Turkish culture and supporting the Turkish-American community. Under his leadership, FTAA continues to build on its rich legacy, embracing new opportunities for cultural exchange and community engagement. As the organization moves forward, it remains dedicated to preserving the traditions and values that have defined it for decades, ensuring that the spirit of the Florida Turkish-American community thrives for generations to come.
