İlmek İlmek

“İlmek İlmek” Women’s Empowerment Programme Officially Launched in Istanbul

The Turkish women’s empowerment programme Ilmek Ilmek (Stitch by Stitch) was officially introduced at a festive event hosted at the German Consulate General in Istanbul. The well-attended gathering brought together diplomats, political actors, and advocates of women’s participation in public life.

The Consuls General of Germany, France, Canada, and Sweden addressed the audience, each emphasizing the vital contributions women make in politics and diplomacy. Their remarks underscored a shared commitment among partner countries to support inclusive leadership and expand opportunities for women in Türkiye.

The evening brought together women who believe in courage, solidarity, and building a new political culture, one that lifts women up instead of leaving them alone. İlmek İlmek is a programme designed to support women in politics to stay in politics, created with inspiration from the proven and powerful methodology of Alliance of Her. Alliance of Her is an international initiative dedicated to empowering liberal-minded women to become leaders in politics. The organisation trains, mentors, and supports women, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and networks needed for effective political participation and leadership. Founded on a methodology that combines campaign strategy, leadership coaching, political communication, and community building, Alliance of Her has become a transformative force for women participating in liberal politics. Over the past decade, its programs have created a strong network of women leaders who influence policy, lead campaigns, and shape political movements across Europe and beyond. This expertise now reaches Türkiye, aiming to develop a new generation of women committed to democratic values, inclusive politics, and meaningful representation.

The launch was followed by a Training of Trainers, marking the operational kick-off for İlmek İlmek. The programme will roll out over the coming years with an ambitious goal: to prepare and empower large numbers of open-minded women across Türkiye for active political engagement at local and national levels.

Through capacity-building, mentorship, and networking activities, İlmek İlmek seeks to strengthen women’s voices where decisions are made, contributing to a more representative and resilient democracy.