Turkish & Ottoman Studies Program | Near Eastern Languages & Civilization | University of Washington
Turkey in Seattle : an Oral History Project
Beliz Ozhan, born on May 30, 2000, in Washington, embodies a vibrant Turkish-American identity as a freshman at the University of Washington. Growing up in a culturally rich environment that celebrated both her American surroundings and Turkish roots, Beliz has always been at the crossroads of two worlds. She actively participates in cultural preservation through dance performances at Turkish festivals and volunteer work at a Turkish-American preschool, highlighting her commitment to maintaining language and traditions. Her upbringing in a family that values Turkish customs, alongside navigating the American way of life, has nurtured a profound bicultural identity. With aspirations that include deepening her ties to Turkey through travel or potential residency, Beliz is passionate about contributing to the vibrancy of the Turkish-American community.