Anılcan Çelikdel

Connector, Designer, Event planner, Explorer, Global soul, Idea generator, Photographer, Project manager, Student

My name is Anılcan Çelikdel, and I’m honored to serve as the Organizer of TEDxBilgiUniversity. I’ve always believed in the transformative power of ideas — how a single story, perspective, or spark of insight can ripple across communities and change the course of someone’s life. That belief is what brought me to TEDx, and it’s what fuels my commitment to building platforms that celebrate curiosity, creativity, and connection. I’m currently studying International Relations at Istanbul Bilgi University, a place that has been more than just a school for me — it’s been a hub for growth, collaboration, and purpose. Over the years, I’ve immersed myself in student-led initiatives, academic conferences, and youth-focused events, taking on leadership roles that have challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and build communities with intention. These experiences not only strengthened my organizational and creative skills but also helped me realize the kind of leader I aspire to be — one who listens, empowers, and inspires. My journey with TEDx began as an admirer in the audience. I would watch talks late at night, fascinated by how ordinary individuals could share extraordinary visions. When the opportunity arose to lead TEDxBilgiUniversity, I saw it as both a privilege and a responsibility. I wanted to create more than just an event — I wanted to spark dialogue, challenge assumptions, and give space to voices that often go unheard. For me, organizing a TEDx event isn’t just about logistics or programs; it’s about storytelling, inclusion, and legacy. Our university sits on the grounds of Santralistanbul, once the city’s first power plant — the very place where electricity first flowed into Istanbul. That symbolism isn’t lost on me. Just as energy once flowed from these walls to light up a city, I hope that ideas born from TEDxBilgiUniversity will spark conversations that illuminate minds and connect hearts. Outside of TEDx and my studies, I serve as Creative Director at Gelecek Odaklı Akademi (GO Academy), where we support private education institutions through MUN organizations and educational programs. In this role, I’ve had the opportunity to lead media production teams and develop creative strategies that amplify youth voices and institutional narratives. It’s a role that perfectly blends my passion for storytelling with my interest in education and social impact. Through everything I do — whether it’s curating a speaker lineup, leading a brainstorming session, or simply listening to someone’s story — I always come back to one question: What idea is worth spreading? I believe every individual has something valuable to share. My goal as a TEDx Organizer is to help bring those ideas into the light, and to ensure that TEDxBilgiUniversity becomes a platform where people are not only heard but understood. In the end, TEDx is not just an event. It’s a catalyst. A mirror. A movement. I’m grateful to be part of that movement and excited for the impact we can create together.

I’m passionate about creating platforms where people — especially young people — can express themselves, challenge norms, and connect through powerful ideas. Whether it’s organizing a conference, designing a visual story, or curating a TEDx stage, I care deeply about building spaces that inspire curiosity, empathy, and growth. I believe in the impact of well-told stories and in the potential of communities that listen to each other.

Throughout my journey in student-led conferences, creative projects, and organizing events, I’ve seen one thing over and over again: young people have bold ideas, strong values, and a clear vision for the future — but most of the time, they’re not given the space to speak or be taken seriously. It’s not that we’re lacking ideas; we’re lacking platforms that believe in our voices. My idea worth spreading is simple: when we create spaces that genuinely listen to young people — not just include them, but value them — we don’t just empower individuals, we spark movements. Leadership doesn’t come with age; it comes with purpose, and purpose starts when someone feels seen and heard.

Communication & Public Speaking, Community Building & Youth Leadership, Creative Direction & Media Production, Event Leadership & Conference Organization, International Relations & Global Awareness, Youth Empowerment & Education Innovation

My TED story started long before I became an organizer — back when I was just someone staying up way too late, watching TED Talks that made me rethink the world and my place in it. I remember being fascinated by how someone, standing alone on a red dot, could make me feel understood, inspired, or even challenged from a screen thousands of kilometers away. That feeling stuck with me. As I got more involved in organizing events, leading conferences, and building communities, I realized what I really cared about was creating that same kind of spark for others. When I learned I could bring TEDx to my own university, something just clicked. It wasn’t just about hosting an event it was about giving people a stage to tell their truth, to ask hard questions, to share something they maybe never had the chance to say out loud. Now, organizing TEDxBilgiUniversity doesn’t feel like a task it feels like a purpose. It’s where everything I love comes together storytelling, youth empowerment, design, connection, and bold ideas. And most of all, it’s where I get to build something that might just change how someone sees the world the same way those TED Talks once did for me.

I’m good at noticing the small things that bring a big difference whether it’s reading the energy of a room during an event, turning a chaotic idea into a clear vision, or catching the one line in someone’s story that truly matters. I tend to work behind the scenes, but I love shaping experiences that feel intentional, connected, and impactful.