The Turkish food and culture market delivered on its promise to give City of Johannesburg residents the full Turkiye experience at Victoria Yards. “The deliciously smelling food, the colour-filled things to see and buy really set the tone for visitors,” says the market organiser, Marion Smith. She says Saturday’s event was a resounding success with many stands selling both South African food and Turkish food. The Turkish Ambassador HE Aysegul Kandas graced the stage to thank all participants for their efforts and contributions towards the earthquake victims.
She says that Turkish treats included baklava, kunefe, sutlac, kofte and these were washed down with a warm cup of Turkish tea or Turkish coffee.
Some of the other stands had offerings like grilled food, chip n dip, pasta, hot roasted nuts, toys, scarves and fragrant perfumes from Dubai.
She adds that a favourite for the women was the henna artist who created beautiful designs on ladies hands.
Guests also enjoyed live entertainment like a performance by Guellord Luseko, who wrote a song for the Turkish Embassy after the devastating earthquake that took place in February 2023.
“Laezonia Primary school impressed the audience with performances from their school children, there was a gum boot dance, a Sepedi dance and a Zulu dance.
“Zyle Clothing graced the stage with a mini fashion show where it showcased beautiful handmade blanket jackets. It uses different cultures times and ethnicities to create the designs. All its garments are produced locally,” says Smith.
Raffle draws were done throughout the day with fabulous prizes like three one-night stays at the Four Seasons Hotel, three vouchers for AlaTurka to be used at the restaurant or spa, tickets to watch Mzansi Tenors, tickets to watch Pieter Dirk Uys, a one-night stay at the Houghton Hotel and many more.
“Special mention goes to Turkish companies Like Turkish Airlines who supported the day as well as SAMPA, AKSA, Defy, Emir sweets, Aselsan and Tuquas as well as, INX who was the media partner for the day. I’m so happy with the turn out and it wouldn’t have been possible without the assistance of Yunus Emre Enstitüsü,” she says.
Smith says that all money raised will go towards homes being built in Turkiye for those families who lost theirs during the earthquake.
“It was a lovely day out with the warm winter sun. We look forward to hosting another event next year,” she says.
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph
23/05/2023