Melda Sherman: Hello, can you tell us a little about yourself? What is your name?
Berna Yeltekin: Hello, thank you for this interview. My name is Berna Yeltekin. I was born in Istanbul and grew up in a family where Turkish and American cultures blended. My family had lived in America for about ten years before I was born, but they decided to return due to homesickness and being away from loved ones. At home, we spoke Turkish, but English words sometimes slipped into our daily conversations. In a way, I grew up in a culturally “Americanized” atmosphere.
As a child, I always felt the freedoms and comforts associated with America. I had an idealized version of America in my mind, though, over time, I realized it wasn’t quite as I imagined. Until high school, I was always striving for something better and more, finding myself on a bridge between these two cultures. Now, as someone who has experienced the unique sides of both cultures, I’m happy to be charting my path.
Melda Sherman: Where are you from?
Berna Yeltekin: I consider myself a true Istanbulite, though I feel connected to the Black Sea and Tatar cultures due to my heritage. My mother is from Giresun, and my father’s family migrated from Bulgaria to Turkey during the war. This cultural richness allows me to draw from various traditions and stories, which makes me fortunate. Sometimes, instead of just feeling like I belong somewhere, listening to stories and meeting other cultures can deepen a person.
My connection to Istanbul is something else entirely. I’d start on the European side, cross to Asia on various ferries and buses, and return to the European side, covering every corner of the city in a day. I’ve explored every inch of Istanbul; I still miss the character of the old Karaköy and Taksim. These memories make me yearn for the city even more when watching it from afar.
Melda Sherman: Are you married?
Berna Yeltekin: I’m not married, but I sometimes feel like I’ve had the experience of marriage, given that I’ve mostly been in long-term relationships. I’m on the lookout for someone with whom I can share a deep bond. I’d love to find a life partner.
Melda Sherman: Where did you live before? Where have you been living? Since when?
Berna Yeltekin: I’ve been living in the Bay Area for two years. Before that, I spent a year in London between 2022-2023, and I had also lived here for a year before that. So, in total, I’ve spent three years in the Bay Area. Previously, I lived in Istanbul, though I’m someone who loves to travel. For me, Istanbul was the most beautiful city in the world—or it used to be, but now economic challenges have made life quite hard for people. I moved here right during COVID-19 and found the chance for a fresh start.
Melda Sherman: What is your profession?
Berna Yeltekin: My main profession is architecture and interior design; in these fields, I design spaces that bring aesthetics and functionality together. As a kitchen designer, I aim to create unique experiences that add value to users’ lives. Every project allows me to express my creativity, combining aesthetics and functionality, which is a passion of mine. Each new project opens a door for me to explore and express myself.
Melda Sherman: Did you have any difficulties while doing your profession in America?
Berna Yeltekin: I haven’t done full-fledged architecture here; currently, I’m involved in design sales. In Turkey, I was familiar with materials and techniques, but when I came here, I wanted to learn all about the materials used. I was looking for a job that would offer me this opportunity.
In America, especially in California, there is a limited variety of products. Not everything available in Turkey is accessible here; even when it is, it’s quite expensive. There are several reasons for this. Importing many materials requires special permits; due to lobbying and building codes, every material needs approval to ensure it is non-toxic and safe.
Additionally, numerous design rules restrict the range of materials and stifle creative ideas. Local suppliers tell me that they offer special materials to Europe but don’t sell them here. Moreover, production isn’t emphasized in the U.S.
Melda Sherman: Can you tell us a bit about your home country? Why did you decide to move to another country?
Berna Yeltekin: My home country is Turkey, but it’s going through a period where human, women’s, and animal rights are increasingly ignored, and democracy is weakening. This prompted my decision to move. I hadn’t initially thought about making such a change, but the cancellation of the Istanbul Convention was a turning point for me. My family was already living in America, and the opportunities here were a significant factor.
The idea of settling in America was always there, but as I got to know America through visits, I noticed that it had a highly individualistic culture, which gave me pause. As I got older, I had a growing desire to build a community around me, something I could easily do in Turkey. Starting from scratch in another country when you already have an established network is challenging. However, stepping out of one’s comfort zone is always a valuable experience. I knew this kind of change would give me a fresh perspective and strength.
My discomfort with Turkey’s social and political atmosphere was another motivator. I could have continued living there, ignoring what was happening, but you can’t ignore your homeland’s choices; you feel compelled to be involved.
Melda Sherman: How have you adjusted to America?
Berna Yeltekin: Adjusting to America was much more complex than anticipated. When I first moved, I felt a sense of not belonging; my culture, language, and habits felt so distant. I missed my friends and the warmth and sincerity of my own culture. Initially, many things felt artificial to me, but I realized that my adaptation journey was like a “three-year marathon”; you progress step-by-step, building with patience.
Starting a job and establishing a professional network has been a great help. Every job interview, every new person I met, and every little conversation marked a milestone in my adaptation process. Although doing my master’s in London slowed down this process, everything I learned gave me a unique perspective. The time I spent there gave me the flexibility to feel at home anywhere.
To feel at home in a city, I believe you need to explore it. Walk around every corner, join events, have conversations in neighborhood cafes… One day, I realized that a small piece of San Francisco had become part of me. When I started building shared dreams with colleagues and working on projects, I truly felt I had adapted. Now I know that belonging takes time, but every city where you leave a piece of yourself begins to belong to you in return.
Melda Sherman: How do you like San Francisco, and what would you recommend to those who don’t know it?
Berna Yeltekin: I truly love San Francisco; it’s such a colorful city with people from all backgrounds, and they’re generally very friendly. For those exploring the city, I recommend iconic places like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Dolores Park. The food culture here is particularly strong, with countless restaurants offering flavors from around the world. Even just walking around the city feels like an adventure because there’s always something new to discover. Hiking is less common here; almost everyone does sports, and if you’re new, you can socialize by joining a sports group. People here take their hobbies seriously.
Melda Sherman: How would you describe being an immigrant?
Berna Yeltekin: At first, I would have defined it as not fully belonging anywhere; you feel disconnected from your roots and habits. But my view has changed over time. For example, there are many Turks here, so when you miss your culture, language, or shared memories, you can find people who support you. Slowly, you start to feel a sense of belonging in this new place. Now, I consider myself somewhat of a “global citizen”; I find a part of myself in every city I live in, creating new connections. Yet there’s something about growing up in your own culture; that sense of nostalgia never really fades. Being an immigrant is a mix of building new connections and carrying the old ones in your heart.
Melda Sherman: As a young, educated person, what do you think about brain drain?
Berna Yeltekin: Brain drain is when young, educated people can’t find opportunities in their country and turn abroad, often because they want to realize their potential. While it allows them to achieve their dreams, it’s a significant loss for their countries. For a dynamic, high-potential society like Turkey, this is truly sad. Losing valuable human resources directly impacts a country’s growth and development.
Melda Sherman: What are your plans?
Berna Yeltekin: My plans involve participating in creative and inspiring projects and exploring the intersection of aesthetics and functionality in design and architecture. As I expand my professional network in San Francisco, I’d like to contribute globally by working on international projects in the future. Creating a more sustainable and equitable structure in the industry is one of my biggest dreams. I want to help move away from profit-centered approaches toward a system that values people’s efforts.
I believe in the importance of sustainable materials. In my architectural projects, I aim for well-being-focused interior design by using non-toxic, healthy, and environmentally friendly materials. Recycling is another crucial element, though the lack of facilities is a significant issue. In the coming years, I’d love to invest in projects like recycling plants to contribute more to the environment. Ultimately, I want to redefine the industry, collaborate with sustainable companies, take a stand against inequalities in working conditions, and be active in essential social issues like border concerns.
Melda Sherman: Many people around the world want to change their lives. Some even want to move to another country. What would you say to them?
Berna Yeltekin: What I can say is, that if you want to make big changes in your life, don’t give up on your goal, and be patient. Even if it seems challenging to reach this dream right now, value the resources you have and make the most of the opportunities. Change and transformation are natural parts of growth, and while it may sometimes seem difficult, it has the power to take you to a place where you’ll feel happier and more fulfilled. Everything has its time; believe in yourself, don’t hesitate to explore every opportunity that comes your way, and let this journey make you stronger.
Melda Sherman: Have you had any funny moments since you moved to America?
Berna Yeltekin: Since moving to America, I’ve had plenty of funny moments, but one recent one stands out. Lately, I’ve been networking and meeting new people all the time.
At one event, I was chatting with a new friend, and then we met another participant. As our conversation continued, I took a short break to go to the restroom. A little while later, I got a message on Instagram saying, “Hey, where are you? Aren’t you coming?” I initially thought it was my friend from the event messaging me. But without realizing it, I’d actually been chatting with the other person we’d just met at the event, mistaking them for my friend and diving into quite a long conversation! I only realized my mistake the next day, and I found it absolutely hilarious. This incident reminded me to be a bit more attentive in my interactions with new people and to take the time to get to know them better.
Melda Sherman: Lastly, imagine you could send a message to the universe! What would you say?
Berna Yeltekin: I ask the universe for peace and joy. Please send me the strength to rise from chaotic times and open my mind. Transport me to a place where we understand each other better, or where I am a world-renowned philosopher. Connecting with others and finding common ground despite our differences helps make the world more livable and peaceful. With empathy and understanding, I can achieve these desires; I can work together with the universe.
Thank you for this nice interview.
Melda SHERMAN
