This month, TurkNetwork Magazine proudly features Yusuf Bulca as our Community Star, honoring his selfless dedication and leadership within the Turkish-American community. A master hair designer by profession, Yusuf’s true legacy lies in his tireless volunteerism—from founding the “Turks in DMV” support network to organizing large-scale cultural events like the Hamsi Festival. His efforts have brought together hundreds of families, supported newcomers, and celebrated Turkish culture across the United States. With a deep sense of community spirit and a heart full of compassion, Yusuf Bulca continues to be a source of hope, unity, and inspiration.

By Oya Bain

In this interview, we sit down with Yusuf Bulca, a beloved figure in the Turkish-American community whose journey from Gaziantep to Washington, DC, is as inspiring as it is impactful. Known not only for his artistic talent as a master hair designer but also for his tireless volunteer work, Yusuf shares the story of his early life, his professional path, and how his deep-rooted sense of community transformed into a powerful movement of unity and support. From founding the “Turks in DMV” group to organizing widely attended cultural events, Yusuf’s story is a testament to the strength of compassion, perseverance, and cultural pride.

Can you tell us about your beginnings—your childhood, place of birth, parents, and siblings?
My name is Yusuf Bulca. I was born in 1969 in Gaziantep, Türkiye, as the youngest of nine siblings. My childhood was filled with joy and energy, spent mostly running around the garden of our detached family home.

What factors influenced you the most during your formative years?
During middle school, I started working as an apprentice at a hair salon on weekends. I was immediately drawn to the profession. I saw that hair design was a form of art, and the joy of making people feel confident through their appearance was incredibly fulfilling. Watching master stylists closely, I learned something new every day. Over time, I realized this was more than just a job—it was a form of creative expression. That is why I chose hairdressing—not simply to cut hair, but to be an artist who shapes people’s style. I continue to grow in this field with passion and determination.

What is your educational and professional training background?
After middle school, I attended the Apprenticeship and Mastery Training Center under the Turkish Ministry of National Education. I received my mastery certificate after three years of training, and later earned my instructor certification. This journey gave me both practical expertise and the ability to mentor others in the field.

How did your career in hairdressing evolve?
I advanced my vocational training in Istanbul and took a big step forward by starting work in Nişantaşı, a prestigious district. During this time, I participated in various projects in television and the fashion world.
I was the hairstylist for the TV program Hanımlar Sizin İçin, and later served as the sponsor stylist for the show Tempo on Channel 6. I worked on live contestants’ hair for four hours straight for Biri Bizi Gözetliyor Otel, hosted by Ece Erken.
In the world of fashion and art, I collaborated with renowned photographer Erol Atar, designing hairstyles for many well-known artists. One of my proudest moments was creating the hairstyle for Ebru Gündeş’s debut album cover.
I also worked with leading agencies like Gaye Sökmen, Uğurkan Erez, and Vision Agency, contributing to fashion shows and photo shoots. My work was featured in prominent magazines such as ELELE and PR Magazin. These experiences were major milestones in my career.

What was your journey to the US like? What were your first impressions and experiences?
When I first arrived in America, I felt like everything lagged behind Türkiye. Over time, either my perception changed, or I simply adjusted. Today, I live in harmony here and continue to build my life.

How did you become so actively involved with the Turkish-American community?
When we arrived, we struggled to enroll my daughter in school due to limited English. It was heartbreaking because we had come here specifically for her education. A young Azerbaijani student helped us—though he had his reasons, it was painful having to pay someone just to enroll my child.
That experience inspired me to create a Facebook page called Turks in DMV to foster social assistance and solidarity. It began with helping my daughter, but over time, it became a vast network. Whether people speak English or not, if someone in the group asks for help, I do my best to respond—never expecting anything in return. Today, I am a trusted name across the US-Turkish community. The challenges are real, but every act of kindness has become a beacon of hope.

What were some challenges and unforgettable moments in your journey?
Language barriers were the biggest challenge when we first arrived. For the past ten years, it is been a rollercoaster ride, but we never gave up. Every day brought a new adventure.
Among many community events, the most heartbreaking moment was during the earthquake. The calls, the inability to reach our loved ones, the helplessness—it felt like being trapped under the rubble ourselves. But that night, the world united. Everyone asked the same question: “Our country is in trouble—what can we do?” That solidarity gave us strength.

Tell us about the Hamsi Festival and how it became a major success.
We held the first Hamsi Festival with just 14 friends in a park. The idea arose: “We could do this on a larger scale.”
◗ In the second year, we hosted 170 people and donated proceeds to ATATDC for the Republic’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
◗ In the third year, 329 people attended, and proceeds went to BTF for educational scholarships for children of fallen soldiers.
◗ In the fourth year, attendance reached 450—a record for such events in the US—and funds supported the Atatürk School in Washington, DC.
It is challenging, but seeing the turnout and community spirit makes every effort worthwhile.

What other community projects have you been involved with? What are your future plans?
Volunteering is a journey powered by the heart. Once you begin, the question “What more can we do?” never ends.
Here are some key projects we have worked on:
◗ Welcoming Newcomers: We have helped hundreds of families arriving with Green Cards or student visas—assisting with housing, school registration, and basic needs.
◗ ATADC Turkish Festival: We have volunteered each year, supporting Turkish music choirs, promoting artists and events through social media, and helping Turkish businesses expand their reach.
◗ Earthquake Relief: We mobilized to support victims, visited search-and-rescue teams, and brought Turkish baklava to express our appreciation.
◗ Aid Campaigns: We organize regular fundraising efforts and direct funds transparently to those in need.
◗ Nature Walks with the Turkish Embassy: For three years, we have organized walks during national holidays to celebrate and bond as a community.

Looking ahead, we aim to:
◗ Expand the Hamsi Festival to an international scale.
◗ Grow scholarship initiatives and launch educational programs to help Turkish children abroad maintain their language and culture.
◗ Create guidance systems for newly arrived families, including language classes and cultural orientation.
◗ Promote Turkish art and culture, and continue supporting artists and choirs through digital platforms.
◗ Launch our new YouTube channel, Turkish Food Lover’s, introducing Turkish cuisine to American audiences with English-language content.

Tell us about your current family—both in the US and Türkiye.
Here in the US, it is my wife, my daughter, and me. But our family continues to grow through community connections. In Türkiye, I have siblings, nieces, and nephews—an extended, loving family.
My father always said, “Your roots are important.” I now understand how true that is. Our roots bind us, no matter where we are.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Although I do not have much free time, I enjoy playing pickleball with my wife. I am also passionate about tennis, though I rarely get to play. I used to swim often, but it is become harder to find the time.
I am a motorcycle enthusiast and love off-road riding. Camping and being in nature bring me peace. One of my biggest dreams is to sail—feeling the wind and the open sea is an indescribable joy I hope to experience.

What is your favorite quote, and what is the proudest moment of your life?
“Freedom and independence are my character.”
—Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
The proudest moment of my life was when my daughter gave a speech at the Washington, DC, Embassy during the November 10th Atatürk Commemoration. I still keep her photo from that day on my phone.

Who has been the most influential person in your life, and why?
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic. I have read extensively about him, and my admiration grows with each book.

Is there something about you that our readers might find surprising?
Most people who know me through social media do not realize I am a professional hairdresser by trade.

What message would you like to share with the Turkish-American community?
“As a member of this community, I believe in the power of unity and solidarity. When we come together, challenges become easier to overcome. Every person has something unique to offer, and when we unite, that collective strength is immense. Solidarity is not just financial—it is emotional and moral support. There is true strength in unity.”

Do you have a final message for our readers?
I have always read TurkNetwork Magazine with great interest. I never imagined I would be chosen as a Community Star. I am truly honored and deeply thankful. Special thanks to Mr. Sıtkı Kazancı and the entire TurkNetwork Magazine team for bringing this publication to our community and giving us a platform to share our stories. ■