10.11.2026 15:11
The Turkish Down Syndrome Association also took part in Brand Week Istanbul, which brought the marketing and communication world together at the Haliç Congress Center under the theme “Turbulence.” Individuals with Down syndrome attending the event expressed that they want to take part in every area of social life. One participant said, “We want to be in every area of life.”
At Brand Week Istanbul, where the marketing and communication world came together, the Turkish Down Syndrome Association also took part. Alongside Tülin Altan, who described the association's work, individuals with Down syndrome attending the event also gave a message of equal participation and love.
EMPHASIS ON INCLUSIVITY AT THE MEETING OF BRANDS
Brand Week Istanbul, organized by MediaCat on November 4-6 at the Haliç Congress Center, brought together professionals from the world of brands, marketing, advertising, communication, and creativity. At the event held under the theme “Turbulence,” the impact of economic and social changes on brands, artificial intelligence, trust, changing consumer behavior, and the future of creativity were discussed.
“BEING VISIBLE IS VERY VALUABLE FOR US”
Tülin Altan, Corporate Communications Manager of the Turkish Down Syndrome Association, told Haberler.com reporter Ayşenur Dalbaş about the importance of taking part in the event for the association. Altan said, “It is very valuable for us. Hundreds of thousands of people come here. Their seeing us, our being visible, and our being here together with the young people are very valuable for our association to be recognized. We are very happy to be here.”
THE ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY
Noting that the association is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Altan said that support begins from the moment it is learned that a baby has Down syndrome. Altan continued as follows:
“Our story actually begins after a baby is conceived and it is learned that the baby has Down syndrome. We have ‘Hello to Life’ programs. We immediately say to our families, ‘Hello, welcome among us,’ and send them a gift package. Because the family is encountering such a thing for the first time, they do not know what to do; they are confused. We immediately provide free counseling to families. Our psychologists provide support. We give information on issues such as which hospitals to go to and which reports need to be obtained.”
“WE ENCOUNTER SITUATIONS IN SCHOOLS WHERE WE ARE NOT WANTED”
Stating that children with Down syndrome also encounter problems in their education life, Altan said, “Afterwards, the children grow up. Unfortunately, we encounter many situations in schools where we are not wanted. In such situations, as the association, we immediately intervene and try to solve the problems.”
MORE THAN 200 YOUNG PEOPLE PLACED IN JOBS
Touching on the association's employment project as well, Altan said:
“Then the young people grow up. With a project we are very proud of, we place them in jobs: ‘Real People for Real Jobs.’ We have very hardworking young people who work from nine in the morning to five in the evening, like everyone else, at big brands and corporate companies. We have placed more than 200 people in jobs, and our project continues.”
LEGAL SUPPORT AGAINST DISCRIMINATION AND VIOLENCE
Noting that the association also carries out lobbying and advocacy work, Altan said, “Sometimes there can be situations where our young people, individuals with Down syndrome, are not wanted, and unpleasant events, discrimination, and incidents of violence occur. In such situations, together with our lawyers at the association, we immediately intervene in almost every matter and go all over Turkey.”
“YOU ARE NOT ALONE”
Addressing families with a child with Down syndrome, Altan spoke as follows:
“As the Turkish Down Syndrome Association, we have the strength to reach all of Turkey. You are not alone. Please call us, contact us. Maybe you are upset and want to chat. Maybe your child is experiencing a problem at school or you want to participate in our activities. Whatever you need, be sure to contact us. All the counseling we provide and all the activities we organize are free. Do not keep your children at home; bring them to activities, meet with our experts. We are here for you. In fact, we serve 86 million people.”
“WE WANT TO BE IN EVERY AREA OF LIFE”
Individuals with Down syndrome attending the event also expressed their desire for equal participation in social life. One participant with Down syndrome said, “We want to be in every area of life.” Another participant said, “We expect love for all children. I am satisfied with my life. I love you very much.”