California Turkish American Chamber of Commerce organized a panel on March 28, 2010 at Radisson Hotel, Newport Beach. The panelists, who are recognized individuals in different fields of business, shared their experience regarding prejudice in business settings due to gender and/or cultural differences and how they have overcome the hurdles they had faced throughout their career.

Following the cocktail offered, the program started with an introduction speech by Ms. Fatma Subasi from CATA Chamber. After her speech, Ms. Selen Eryuce, Turkish Commercial Attaché delivered her opening remarks and offered her thanks to CATA Chamber for its support to her office and stated that CATA Chamber plays an exemplary role for future Turkish-American organizations to be established.

Our distinguished panel was formed by Ms. Hatice Koralp, Ms. Tugba Oten (moderator), Ms. Hulya Peker, Dr. Arzu Simsek, and Ms. Devrim Isik-Wellman. Panelists commonly listed discipline, determination and self-confidence, and communication skills as critical factors to overcome any possible prejudice in the work place. The panel have also agreed upon the vitality of family support, taking the advantage of a multicultural background, and active participation in social and business life for success.

Other topics that have been discussed in the panel include, but not are not limited to: The importance of fluency and emphasis in addition to the pronunciation, developing mutual relationships with colleagues, working persistently, and balance of family life, personal life and career.

After the question and answer session, the program was concluded by announcements of two CATA Chamber sponsored events which will take place in May: Anatolian Cultures and Food Festival, and International Business Reception.

Participants have expressed their pleasure for such an event that covers women's issues to be organized and stated expectations to attend more of such events in near future.

You may view photos of the event.