Turkish volleyball captain Eda Erdem Dundar, who leads both Fenerbahce Medicana and the Turkish National Women’s Volleyball Team, has been officially named UN Women’s Goodwill Ambassador for Türkiye. The appointment was announced during a special ceremony held in Istanbul, on the eve of the International Day of the Girl Child.
The event marked an important step in advancing gender equality in Türkiye, recognising Erdem’s influence as both an athlete and a role model for women and girls.
The ceremony was attended by a number of prominent figures, including Sadettin Saran, President of Fenerbahce Sports Club; Orhan Demirel, the Club’s General Secretary; Ecem Turker Kavaz, Manager of the Fenerbahce Medicana Women’s Volleyball Team; and players Gizem Orge, Fatma Beyaz, Arelya Karasoy Kocas, and Liza Safranova.
Representatives from other Fenerbahce teams were also present, including Yagmur Uraz, captain of the women’s football team, and Melih Mahmutoglu, captain of Fenerbahce Beko’s basketball squad. Former club executive Simla Turker Bayazıt was among the attendees as well.
The ceremony featured speeches by Belen Sanz Luque, UN Women’s Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, and Maryse Guimond, UN Women Türkiye Country Director. Both highlighted the crucial role of sport in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Following their remarks, Eda Erdem Dundar took to the stage to express her gratitude for the appointment and reaffirm her dedication to using her platform to inspire positive change.
Fenerbahce President Sadettin Saran praised Erdem’s appointment, calling her an example of leadership and perseverance. “Eda has once again made us proud. As the father of a daughter, this has special significance for me. Our support for women is not just in words—54% of executives in my company are women. Eda’s appointment as ambassador is truly well-deserved. She continues to inspire young girls, both on and off the court. We are proud to see Fenerbahce at the forefront of such meaningful initiatives,” he said.
Visibly emotional, Erdem spoke about her ambitions in her new role. “I am deeply proud and excited. Being appointed as U.N. Women’s Goodwill Ambassador for Türkiye is an immense honor and responsibility. I am aware of the influence I have on women and young girls, and I will use this title to be their voice across our country. Not only in sports, but in every aspect of life, we will strive for a safer and more equal environment for all women and girls. Our slogan says it all—‘Our Voice, Our Strength.’ Together, we will make our voices heard even louder.”
