Diasporaclub
Our Story

A Letter from the Founders

Anna & Orçun

Dear Friend,

When we moved to Istanbul together as a Turkish American family who met in New York City, we felt that familiar mix of excitement and uncertainty that comes with beginning a new chapter. For us, it meant discovering a new city and culture, and also rediscovering a sense of home.

Istanbul is vibrant and welcoming, yet we quickly realized that for English-speaking families and individuals, finding community here can still be a challenge. We met so many expats, international professionals, students, and creatives asking the same questions: Where do I meet like-minded people? How do I build lasting connections? Where can I truly belong while living here?

That is how Diasporaclub was born, out of our own search for belonging.

Anna and Orçun, with the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge behind them

Our vision is to bring English-speaking Istanbul together. A community that feels like home, where friendships are formed, ideas are exchanged, and everyone feels seen and valued. Through our events, newsletter, and this platform, we are connecting people from all walks of life: entrepreneurs, professionals, families, and anyone seeking connection and purpose.

Whether you have just arrived or have called Istanbul home for years, we invite you to join us. Let's build this community together, one conversation, one event, one friendship at a time.

Welcome to Diasporaclub.

Warmly,

Anna & Orçun

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