Merve Pekyilmaz, an inspiring ISC volunteer, has generously dedicated over 115 hours supporting our Welcome Centre front desk and serving as a volunteer interpreter. She came to Canada from Türkiye in September 2024 and brings fluency in Arabic, Turkish, and English to our team.

Drawn to ISC’s mission early in life—she’s been volunteering since age 15—Merve says:

“Volunteering with ISC allows me to continue doing what I love—supporting and empowering others during important transitions in their lives.”

Merve deeply values the human connection and welcoming environment at ISC, where she listens, learns, and helps newcomers adapt to their Canadian journey.

With a Master’s in Political Science and Public Administration, Merve has significant experience working on social and humanitarian initiatives with UNOPS, IOM, IRD, UNHCR, Turkey’s Presidency of Migration Management, and the Canadian Embassy in Türkiye. Now, she brings her passion and language skills to ISC’s Client Care and Gateway interpretation teams in Calgary.

Yelizaveta Gungor, Client Care Coordinator, shares:

“Merve’s reliability, kindness, and professionalism at the front desk created a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone who walked through our doors. We truly appreciate Merve’s outstanding contribution.”

Please join us in celebrating Merve’s dedication, compassion, and invaluable support in helping newcomers build a foundation in their new home.