S2:E5 Ikram Carpan Part 1

This is the first part of my two-part deep conversation with Ikram Carpan.

Ikram came to Waterloo Region from Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic, reconnecting with members of his family who fled to Canada after being targeted by the Turkish government for being followers of Fethullah Gulen.

Ikram is a fascinating young man, who grew up in Russia and Bangladesh, and studied in Turkey before coming here. He has a passion for teaching and child development - and his life experiences have given him a unique perspective that he uses to try to improve the lives of those around him.

Ikram got me to see many things from a new point of view—and he will do the same for you.
 

Highlights:

[2:40] Ikram's Active Day & Initial Impressions Greg welcomes Ikram to the podcast.

[3:40] Energy & Involvement with Grand River Friendship Society (Summer Camps & Activities

[5:20 ] Empowering the Youth
Ikram discusses the importance of empowering the younger generation, emphasizing the challenges of breaking away from over-dependence on technology and helping them think for themselves.

Ikram shares his philosophy on teaching, emphasizing the importance of fostering independent thought rather than mere rote learning. He believes in creating mechanisms for the youth to recognize and pursue what's beneficial for them.

[14:40] Encouraging Self-driven Motivation
Instead of external enforcement, Ikram speaks about the value of self-motivation, describing how student are more engaged when they discover things on their own.

[17:20 ] Parental Influence & Cultural Perspectives
Diving into the cultural aspects, especially within the Turkish community, Ikram talks about the sometimes counterproductive impact of over-nurturing parents on their children's independence.

Ikram highlights the necessity of letting children solve their problems, allowing them to develop essential life skills and encouraging growth -- promoting genuine interest in learning rather than forced involvement, emphasizing the power of self-driven motivation.

[20:00] Origins and Influence of Teaching in Ikram's Life
Ikram shares his birthplace, Russia, and how his father's profession as a teacher in Turkish schools influenced him. This journey of teaching was interwoven with the broader context of the Gulen movement.

The origins and the distinctiveness of the Gulen movement are discussed. Fethullah Gulen, a religious leader from the Turkish community, innovatively bridged secular and religious teachings, which was revolutionary during the 1960s and 1970s.

Ikram touches upon how Gulen's unique approach influenced various individuals, including his father.

[28:40] Ikram's Multifaceted Background
Growing up in Russia, living in Bangladesh, and studying in Turkey, Ikram has a diverse educational and professional history.

[30:20] Persecution, Politics & Family’s Escape
Ikram recounts the reasons behind his family's move from Bangladesh, referencing specific threats from the Turkish government. 

Ikram speaks of the arrests that plagued his friends and family back in Turkey. 

Witnessing firsthand the tragic stories of his homeland has given Ikram a unique perspective on life. He emphasizes the importance of understanding, compassion, and the lessons learned from such experiences.

[34:20] Building vs. Destroying & New Beginnings in Canada 
Ikram draws a distinction between the ease of destruction and the effort required to build. He shares his commitment to building, fostering positive relationships, and finding joy in the process. His journey to Canada, while challenging, has been transformative and rewarding.