About Us

Founder

Dr. Hilal Akdemir

Hilal is a researcher, community builder, and storyteller who works at the intersection of social inclusion, knowledge equity, and cultural participation. Holding a PhD in Tourism and working across projects in Portugal and beyond, her focus lies in amplifying underrepresented voices and creating frameworks for collective empowerment.

As the founder of YouCanToo Mentorship Network, she envisions a space where mentorship becomes a tool for transformation, not just career advancement. Her work is driven by a commitment to equity in access, dignity in learning, and joy in resistance.

Whether in academia, grassroots networks, or policy conversations, Hilal brings both analytical insight and emotional clarity, always grounded in lived experience.

Mentee Coordinator

Dr. Sarasadat (Sara) Makian

With a PhD in Geography from Université Grenoble Alpes, Sara is a researcher focused on future-oriented thinking in tourism field, systems transformation, and how complex social structures evolve in response to global challenges. Her academic background in transition studies, innovation, and strategic planning enables her to approach questions of equity, sustainability, and participation from a cross-disciplinary perspective.

At YouCanToo, Sara brings a critical lens to how we imagine and design collective futures. Her work bridges academic insight with actionable strategies, aiming to empower communities to rethink what inclusive transformation can look like.

Mentor Coordinator

Dr. Homa Rahimi

Homa Rahimi is a researcher and lecturer with a strong background in hospitality management and international education. She currently serves as an Associate Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier Universityand teaches business-related modules at ENUIC and the Oxford International Education Group.

With a deep commitment to inclusive education, Homa brings both academic expertise and practical experience to the mentorship network. She is an Associate Member of CIPD and holds the Associate Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA), reflecting her dedication to teaching excellence and professional development.

At YouCanToo, she co-leads the mentorship design and contributes to developing strategic learning pathways for women and navigating academic and professional careers across borders.

Community Outreach Manager

Alperen Yayla

Alperen is conducting a PhD in Sustainability Sciences at the University of Lisbon, currently working on butterfly biodiversity and pollinator conservation as part of the ARCADE Project.

At YouCanToo, Alperen leads our community outreach efforts—connecting with international students, building inclusive networks, and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, feels seen, supported, and empowered. He is passionate about making science more approachable and creating spaces where students can grow both academically and personally.

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