I am Sema, living in İstanbul. I currently work in a private university at a gender research center. I am the coordinator of a project which aims to introduce community oriented-self-care tools and strategies to human rights defenders. As a dance lover and party animal, I am a member of Queerwaves which is a DJ collective aiming to provide alternative entertainment and solidarity spaces for queer folks in İstanbul. I studied philosophy and cultural studies and actively involved in queer-feminist activism for years. I see myself as a calm and quiet person, but it depends on the situation:) I am interested in yoga and meditation, did Vipassana two times. I spent most of my life in İstanbul, and I know every part of the city very well. I also organize memory walks in different neighborhoods of İstanbul as part of my work.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I think that Couchsurfing is a good way to learn more about the local culture, and it is affordable.

Interests

• performing arts
• yoga
• meditation
• music
• dance
• feminism
• queer theory

Music, Movies, and Books

I like to hear different styles of music but lately I am more interested in electronic music, specifically dance music or techno. I love Almodovar movies, and my favorite author is Ursula Le Guin.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I attended a ten-day Vipassana course two times.

Teach, Learn, Share

I like to learn about cultural differences among diverse geographies.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share food, I am vegan and I love to cook. I can share music (and also some dancing tips), and I can offer yoga and meditation.

Countries I’ve Visited

Brazil, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Macedonia, Sweden

Countries I’ve Lived In

Turkey