Sumeyye Erdogan Bayraktar, the daughter of Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is a dynamic figure who has emerged as a powerful influence within the country’s political and social spheres. Her multifaceted role within the Erdogan family, her engagement in the political landscape, and her philanthropic work have all contributed to her public profile. This article seeks to shed light on Sumeyye Erdogan Bayraktar’s life, career, and her influence in contemporary Turkish society.
Born as the youngest of President Erdogan’s four children, Sumeyye has always been a prominent figure within her influential family. Educated in the United States and the United Kingdom, she holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and Politics from the London School of Economics. This international exposure has undoubtedly broadened her perspectives and enriched her understanding of global affairs, qualities that are reflected in her subsequent career.
Following her academic endeavours, Sumeyye returned to Turkey and took up a role within the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), which her father co-founded and has led for many years. As part of her role in the AKP, she provided strategic input and contributed to policy-making, demonstrating her political acumen and deep understanding of Turkish politics.
In 2015, Sumeyye married Selçuk Bayraktar, the chief technology officer of Baykar, a leading Turkish defence and tech company. The couple’s union marked a significant alliance between two of Turkey’s most powerful families and further elevated Sumeyye’s profile within the country.
Beyond politics, Sumeyye Erdogan Bayraktar has made a significant impact through her philanthropic work. She is the Vice President of the Turkey Youth and Education Service Foundation (TÜRGEV), a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing scholarships and housing for students. Her involvement in TÜRGEV has been instrumental in aiding the organisation’s efforts to support education and nurture the next generation of Turkish leaders.
However, her influence does not stop at the borders of her homeland. Sumeyye’s reach extends to the international stage, where she has consistently represented Turkey at various global forums, promoting dialogue and fostering relationships with international counterparts.
Image Credit: AA Photo
