About Sibel & Oktay

Sibel was born in Izmit in 1971 and Oktay was born in Kesan-Edirne in 1970. The couple met at Orta Dogu Teknik University and after they received their Bachelor’s they moved to North Texas to pursue their Master’s degree. Orta Dogu Teknik University had teaching programs available for students which prompted their move as well. Sibel received her Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Oktay received his Master’s degree in Computer Science. After spending time in Dallas, they moved to Seattle due to Microsoft job opportunities in 2000. Both have lived in the Seattle area since then. Sibel and Oktay love the Turkish community in the PNW region, as there are a multitude of activities to join and people with different professions. The Turkish-American community in Seattle is much bigger and more diverse than in Dallas. They are very involved with the community here and have participated and led many festivals like International Children’s Festival, Turkfest, and other TACAWA events. Oktay also is a part of the Sea Turks: a Turkish-American soccer team. Although they do miss Turkey and go back almost every year, they love their life in Seattle and America!