The Stories of Türkiye project, introduced by Houston-based Turkish Education Attaché Ali Kılıçlıoğlu, brings Turkish culture to American children through interactive storytelling.
Through this initiative, Houston kids are being schooled in Turkish stories, folklore, and traditions by Karamel the Cat.
Each story sends children on an adventure through Türkiye, offering an interactive cultural experience.
Karamel explores Türkiye’s regions, from Mount Ararat to the coast of the Aegean Sea. In Cappadocia, Karamel describes landscapes on a hot air balloon ride or shows the coast of Bodrum with its white houses.
“Our goal with this project is to foster cultural awareness at a young age, reflecting the project’s commitment to bridging divides and promoting mutual respect between Turkish and American communities,” says Kılıçlıoğlu.
In another story, Karamel takes young listeners through the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, guiding them through the market’s sights and sounds. As he describes spices, textiles, and sweets, Karamel teaches about Turkish crafts, food, and community values through storytelling.
The project also explores Türkiye’s historic sites, with Karamel visiting places like the city of Ephesus. Here, he shares stories of scholars at the Library of Celsus and describes life in a Roman city. By introducing these sites through storytelling, Kılıçlıoğlu says that Stories of Türkiye promotes heritage appreciation and encourages children to imagine the lives of those from the past.
Turkish folklore is another focus. In one tale, Karamel introduces Nasruddin Hodja, a folk character known for his wit and wisdom. Through Nasruddin’s adventures, children learn lessons on humility, kindness, and clever thinking. Karamel also shares tales of Karagöz and Hacivat, Turkish shadow puppets whose interactions teach about friendship and human nature.
Commenting on technology integration in their storytelling, Kılıçlıoğlu says that immersive tech will be widely deployed.
“Our application will enable educators, trainers, and users worldwide to create interactive and immersive AR and XR vocational training lessons,” says Kılıçlıoğlu.
Although applied in a different context, his focus on educational innovation aligns with the project’s storytelling, creating immersive cultural experiences for children.
“Stories of Türkiye project builds understanding and appreciation, encouraging children to explore cultures with an open mind. Fostering cultural awareness at a young age is central to a more connected world. Through Karamel’s stories, young listeners learn to see Türkiye’s history, diversity, and values as part of a shared world, developing respect for cultural diversity that crosses borders,” says Kılıçlıoğlu.
Notes from the Editor: For more information click here.
