A good !f friend

From when we first created !f Istanbul as 20 something year olds, Osman Kavala has been a generous supporter, colleague and friend, always making time for tea in his busy schedule when we needed it, unfailingly respectful in his manner, asking 'how can I help you' rather than giving an opinion. Several of our projects are made possible largely due to his tireless work: !f screens films in more than 30 cities thanks to his Anatolian Culture Foundation and its excellent network of cultural partners in Turkey. Likewise, our New Film Fund, which supports Turkey's next generation documentary filmmakers, owes much to his vision and enthusiasm.   

Our dearest wish is to see him back with us soon, continuing with his work that touches many lives, including ours, and to which his gentle, inclusive and generous presence contributes so much.

Serra Ciliv & Pelin Turgut

!f istanbul founders, 9 November 2017