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with Selin Ozunaldim
An exclusive interview with CLOUDZILLA
At just 22 years old, Selin Özünaldım is not only raising her voice but also empowering a generation to speak up for gender equality. Born and raised in Istanbul, Türkiye, Selin has become a global changemaker through her tireless advocacy, from founding Türkiye’s first high school HeForShe club to collaborating with international organizations like UN Women, Girl Up, and UNICEF.
What started as a response to a personal moment of awakening has grown into a lifelong mission to dismantle gender stereotypes, elevate young voices, and champion mental health awareness. Whether she's mentoring girls in STEM or speaking on global stages, Selin leads with heart, resilience, and a belief that change begins with each of us choosing to act.
In this conversation, Selin shares the pivotal experiences that shaped her journey, the obstacles she has overcome, and the message she hopes will resonate with others: every voice has power, and every action counts.
Can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your background?
I'm Selin Özünaldım, a 22-year-old global gender equality activist from Istanbul, Türkiye. My passion for social justice and gender equality began during adolescence, leading me to establish the HeForShe club among high schools in Türkiye. Initially founded by UN Women, this initiative aimed to raise awareness and engage my peers in discussions about gender issues. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to creating platforms for young people to lead and thrive. I’ve had the privilege of taking on multiple roles: as a WAVE Youth Ambassador, working towards raising awareness and ending gender-based violence; as a State of Youth Board Member, collaborating with Kids Rights to amplify young voices and advocate for children’s rights globally; as a Board Member at Etre Girls, contributing to initiatives that promote mentorship and empower girls to unlock their full potential; and as a member of the STEMinists Network by UNDP and UNICEF, where I work to highlight the role of women and girls in innovation and STEM fields. Sharing my journey is crucial to inspire and empower others, especially young individuals, to recognise their potential in driving societal change.
What initially inspired you to pursue activism or advocacy work?
The pivotal moment came when my then 6-year-old brother innocently remarked that I didn't need to worry about getting into a good university or finding a well-paid job because I could simply get married. This statement highlighted the deep-seated gender stereotypes prevalent in our society. Realising the impact of such beliefs on young minds, I felt compelled to take action. This led me to contact UN Women and establish the first HeForShe club in my high school, focusing on promoting gender equality, challenging societal norms, and involving men in the conversation.
What is something about your life or upbringing that people may not expect?
Despite being outspoken in my activism, i've struggled with anxiety throughout my journey. Growing up, I often felt overwhelmed by the pressure to meet expectations and the fear of failure. Balancing school, activism, and personal life was challenging, and there were moments when my anxiety felt paralysing. However, this journey taught me resilience and the importance of self-care. I learned to manage my anxiety through mindful practices like taking walks with my headphones on and notifications off or binge-watching a comfort show like The Big Bang Theory. Due to my experience, I wanted to help others who are facing similar challenges, and it inspired me to be open about mental health to help break the stigma surrounding it. That is how I started working with Unsinkable as a Community Champion.
Can you walk us through some of the most difficult moments in your mental
health journey and how you found the strength to move forward?
Balancing activism, academic responsibilities, and personal life has been challenging. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, leading to stress and anxiety. I found strength in connecting with fellow activists, sharing experiences, practising mindfulness, and spending quality time with family and friends. I also struggled with setting boundaries, and now I am to prioritise self-care since it has become essential in maintaining my mental well-being. Engaging in physical activities like Thai Bo or Zumba also became my therapeutic outlet. These activities helped me release stress, refocus, and reconnect with my body. Over time, I realised that taking care of my mental health not only made me stronger but also allowed me to show up more authentically in my work and advocacy.
What is one piece of advice you have received in life that you try to live by every
day?
"Be the change you wish to see in the world." This mantra reminds me that individual actions, no matter how small, can contribute to broader societal transformations. It encourages me to lead by example and stay committed to my values.
You've already accomplished so much at a young age. What would you say are some of the projects or milestones you're most proud of?
What do they mean to you?
Founding Türkiye's first Girl Up Club and Girls Who Code chapter are among my proudest achievements because these platforms have had a transformative impact on young girls across the country. These initiatives have not only empowered participants to embrace leadership roles and engage in STEM fields but have also challenged deeply ingrained traditional genderroles in a society where such opportunities are often limited for women and girls. Through Girl Up Istanbul, we've created a dynamic platform that amplifies girls voices on critical issues such as mental health, period poverty, and gender equality.
During the pandemic, we adapted to virtual platforms, hosting Instagram Live sessions, collaborating with international Girl Up clubs, and even launching campaigns like GirlsEqual. One of the projects I'm particularly proud of is the Outside of the Classroom online booklet series, which tackled taboo topics head-on, reaching over 200,000 individuals and sparking meaningful discussions.
These experiences have provided participants with vital knowledge and a sense of community and solidarity. Similarly, founding Türkiye's first Girls Who Code chapter was driven by the vision of bridging the gender gap in STEM fields. My team and I hosted workshops, conferences, and career days for girls in elementary and middle school, introducing them to coding basics and showcasing successful Turkish women in STEM. These events were designed to inspire participants and break stereotypes that often discourage girls from pursuing careers in technology. Witnessing young girls light up with excitement while learning to code or listening to inspiring stories from women in STEM is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that reaffirms the importance of these initiatives.
These achievements hold a special place in my heart because they are about more than just programs or events—they are about creating a ripple effect. Watching young girls grow more confident, develop new skills, and take bold steps toward breaking barriers is a constant reminder of why I do what I do. These platforms have proven that with the right opportunities and support, young girls can achieve incredible things, and being a part of that journey is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Was there a particular moment or experience that solidified your commitment to
fighting for gender equality? What impact did it have on you personally?
Participating in the Girl Up Global Leadership Summit was a transformative experience reinforcing my dedication to gender equality. As a speaker at the 2021 Summit, I had the opportunity to share my journey and insights on becoming a leader among peers. Engaging with passionate youth leaders from around the world highlighted the collective power we hold in advocating for change. This experience not only broadened my perspective but also deepened my resolve to continue empowering young girls and promoting gender equality on a global scale. Girl Up Global Leadership Summit holds a special place in my heart for sure.
Gender equality is such a wide-ranging issue. What is it about this cause that
resonates with you most deeply? Why do you feel it's so urgent to address?
What resonates with me most deeply about gender equality is how deeply ingrained gender-based stereotypes and discrimination shape every aspect of our lives—from the opportunities we have access to, to how women and girls are treated and valued in society. These issues aren’t just societal norms; they’re systemic barriers that hold people back and perpetuate cycles of inequality. It’s heartbreaking to see individuals—especially young girls—doubt their abilities or limit their aspirations simply because of the roles society has imposed on them. For me, addressing these issues is not just urgent—it’s a matter of justice and survival. Gender equality isn’t only about fairness; it’s the foundation for a better, more sustainable future for everyone. Societies that empower women and girls thrive economically and socially.
But the longer we allow these inequalities to persist, the more we compromise progress. It’s personal, too. I’ve seen firsthand, through initiatives like founding Girl Up Istanbul and Girls Who Code Türkiye, how transformative it is when girls are given the tools, confidence, and platforms to realize their potential. Watching them step into leadership roles or embrace STEM careers has shown me what’s possible when barriers are dismantled. As for what drives my passion; the understanding that every step toward gender equality is a step toward unlocking the full potential of individuals and societies. It’s about ensuring that no one is limited by outdated norms or stereotypes. Achieving gender equality is not just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do, and there’s no time to waste.
How do you handle the challenges that come with being so young in such high-level spaces?
Navigating high-level spaces as a young activist involves continuous learning and resilience. I focus on thorough preparation, actively listen to diverse perspectives, and remain adaptable. Building a support network of mentors and peers has also been invaluable in providing guidance and encouragement. Navigating high-level spaces as a young activist presents unique challenges, including overcoming age-related biases and establishing credibility.
In my conversation with Julia Middleton on the "Women Emerging" podcast, I discussed the importance of authenticity and self-awareness in leadership. The importance of embracing one's unique perspective and experiences should not be underestimated, regardless of age, as it can be a source of strength and should be celebrated. I strive to contribute meaningfully and confidently in these environments by staying true to my values and continuously seeking knowledge.
You've worked with some of the most prominent organisations, such as the UN's HeForShe and Girl Up. Can you share what those experiences have taught you?
Working with organisations like UN Women and Girl Up has taught me the immense power of collaboration and the importance of creating spaces for diverse voices. One of my proudest roles is as an editor for the UN Women's Youth Newsletter. In the section I lead, I invite guest writers for each issue to share their experiences, thoughts, or data on specific topics and good practices they've encountered. Through this, I aim to provide a platform where fellow young activists from various backgrounds and with multiple levels of expertise can share what they have learned. This initiative is inspired by my own experiences with UN Women and Girl Up, where I found opportunities to amplify my voice and connect with like-minded individuals. These collaborations taught me that when young people have spaces to share their insights and stories, it strengthens the collective movement toward gender equality and empowers others to take action.
What advice would you give to young people who look up to you and want to make an impact in their communities?
Start by identifying issues you are truly passionate about and commit to educating yourself thoroughly. Passion fuels purpose, but knowledge equips you with the tools to create meaningful change. Don’t be afraid to take the first step, no matter how small it may seem—it’s often those small actions that grow into something far bigger than you could imagine. As you embark on this journey, be prepared to face challenges and criticism. There will always be people who doubt your abilities or tell you that you can’t make a difference. It’s essential to develop thick skin and stay focused on your purpose. Building alliances and collaborating with like-minded individuals will amplify your impact. Change doesn’t happen in isolation—it takes a community. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and together, your efforts will be stronger and more impactful.
Above all, remember that persistence is key. Change takes time, and progress often comes in small, incremental steps. Every effort, no matter how small it may feel, contributes to the larger goal. Stay resilient, trust in your vision, and never underestimate the power of your voice and actions. You are capable of incredible things—just keep going!
What's next for you? Are there new dreams, goals, or challenges you're excited to take on?
I'm thrilled to be part of the UN Women Leaders Network, the first initiative in UN history that brings together 100 women leaders from diverse generations, backgrounds, and expertise to advocate for gender equality in leadership and decision-making processes. This initiative, launched at the UN General Assembly, is an incredible opportunity to collaborate with inspiring women worldwide and contribute to shaping solutions for some of the most pressing global challenges. Being a part of this network allows me to share my experiences as a young leader while learning from others who have paved the way.
It's a space where intergenerational dialogue thrives, and I'm excited to use this platform to amplify the voices of youth and foster meaningful progress in achieving gender equality. This initiative perfectly aligns with my vision of creating impactful, inclusive spaces for change. Thus, I'm eager to see how we can collectively drive action for a more equitable future.
What motivated you to open up about your journey, and what do you hope others gain from hearing your story on CLOUDZILLA?
Sharing my journey is about highlighting the impact one individual can have and encouraging others to recognize their legacy. I hope the audience understands that activism is accessible to everyone and that collective efforts lead to meaningful change. By discussing challenges and successes, I aim to provide a realistic yet hopeful perspective on advocacy work and the journey of creating change.
If there's one key message you want the audience to take away from your story, what would it be?
Every action counts. Whether starting a conversation, joining a movement, or challenging a stereotype, your contributions are valuable. Embrace your capacity to effect change and inspire others to do the same.
The key message I want the audience to take away is the power of action. HeForShe's slogan, "If not me, then who? If not now, then when?" has been a guiding principle in my journey. It's a reminder that we cannot wait for the "perfect" moment or for someone else to step up—if we want change, it starts with us right now. Every step, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more equal and just world. So, my message is: don't wait. Take action today and be the change you want to see.
Instagram: @selinozunaldim
LinkedIn: Selin Özünaldım
Websites: https://www.heforshe.org/en
Check out Selin's "Sneak Peak" video down below!
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