Career Days at Secondary School: A Two-Day Inspiration Marathon

There’s something truly energising about watching young minds light up with ambitions—and that’s exactly what happened during this year’s Career Days, brilliantly brought to life by Mr Ülker, Ms Can, and Dr Zabolotnov. Over just two fast-paced days, we welcomed 14 guest speakers representing a vibrant array of professions. From Entrepreneurship and Law to Diplomacy, Biomedical Sciences and Graphic design, the range was nothing short of enlightening.

It’s rare to have such a diverse lineup in one event, and the buzz around school was noticable. These days aren’t just about hearing job titles; they’re about opening doors to worlds students may never have imagined and connecting classroom learning to real-life aspirations.

Meet the Inspiring Voices Behind the Stories

Let's highlight some of the notable speakers who made this event unforgettable. .. Mr Emre Hatay, Division Head and Executive Committee Member at Metgin Ltd., shared insights into the fast-moving consumer goods industry in North Cyprus, giving a fascinating peek into the business world right here at home, while also encouraging students to take a leap abroad and gain experience in different countries.

In the realm of science, Neal Hajim from GSK (GlaxoSmithKline) introduced students to the innovative field of biopharmaceuticals. The concept of using living cells to create medicines for combating serious diseases was enlightening, highlighting the crucial relationship between science and innovation in making a significant impact.

Then there’s Selin Örek, a proud alumnus from the class of 2015, whose journey is anything but conventional. Starting out studying drama, Selin later pursued a Master’s Degree in International Security and now, she investigates sensitive cases with the bi-communal Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus (CMP). Her story is a compelling reminder that career paths aren’t always linear—sometimes the most meaningful work emerges from blending passions and disciplines.

And of course, the presence of Bertan Özerdağ, President of the Supreme Court, here in North Cyprus, gave students a grounding glimpse into leadership and justice—paths that carry their own kind of power and responsibility. His role as the head of the judiciary not only signifies a position of authority but also embodies the profound responsibilities that come with ensuring the rule of law and upholding the principles of justice in society. Mr Özerdağ's insights served to inspire the next generation of legal professionals, emphasising the importance of serving the public good and making a positive impact on society.

Why Career Days Matter

These inspiring talks sparked connections between students’ current interests and their potential futures. It’s one thing to wonder, “What will I do?” and quite another to begin identifying the subjects and hobbies that might lead there. The event encouraged students to think seriously about how the pieces they work on today—the classes they choose, the skills they develop and the hobbies they pursue—could line up with their dreams tomorrow.

As we wrap up this inspiring week, we are already excited about what’s next. Whether it’s more engaging events, creative projects, or simply new conversations sparked by guest visits, the journey of discovery continues. A heartfelt thank you to our guest speakers for joining us in celebrating curiosity, courage, and the endless possibilities ahead.