Partner institutions
The Turkish Handball Federation (THF) is the governing body responsible for overseeing and promoting the sport of handball in Turkiye. Established in 1976, the THF is dedicated to the development and regulation of handball activities throughout the country, working to enhance the sport’s popularity and competitive standards. The Federation organizes national leagues, tournaments, and training programs, fostering talent from grassroots to elite levels. Additionally, the THF represents Turkiye in international handball associations and competitions, striving to elevate the nation’s presence on the global stage. Through its commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and sportsmanship, the Turkish Handball Federation plays a crucial role in the advancement of handball as a prominent and widely respected sport in Turkiye.
The Network of Sport and Body Movement for Vulnerable Groups (BoMoVu) is a collective of sports, dance, and performing arts practitioners dedicated to social work. Believing that those who have gained well-being through physical experiences can best share this with others, BoMoVu bridges the gap between these practitioners and vulnerable groups in Turkiye. They advocate that access to physical activities is a fundamental right, not a luxury. BoMoVu designs physical training programs to help individuals integrate into everyday life and connects members with target groups. Additionally, they offer seminars to help sports practitioners adapt their skills to meet the needs of vulnerable populations, aiding in the creation of holistic social programs. Through these efforts, BoMoVu enhances the well-being and social inclusion of those they support.The
University of Ljubljana, the oldest and largest higher education institution in Slovenia, is renowned for its comprehensive and diverse academic programs. Among its many distinguished faculties, the Faculty of Sports stands out for its commitment to excellence in the fields of physical education, sports science, and kinesiology. Established to cultivate top-tier professionals in sports and physical education, the Faculty offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. It is dedicated to advancing research, fostering innovation, and promoting the benefits of physical activity for all ages. With state-of-the-art facilities, a strong emphasis on practical experience, and a robust network of international collaborations, the Faculty of Sports at the University of Ljubljana plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of sports education and research both in Slovenia and globally.
Project team
(in alphabetical order)
Dr. Altay Atlı | Project Manager: Professor of international political economy, teaching at Koç University and Boğaziçi University in Istanbul, and also running an international business consultancy firm. Established experience in international collaboration projects, including profit and non-profit ones. A former handball player, currently a board member at the Turkish Handball Federation, in charge of international development projects.
Burcu Ayan | Expert and Trainer: PhD candidate at the Department of Sociology of Anadolu University, she has been engaged in sports such as swimming, volleyball, tennis since a young age, trained people from different age groups in swimming, and volunteered in many NGOs to share her experience. She is currently taking part in different projects of BoMoVu and supporting the development of the volunteer network consisting of sport and art practitioners.
Şinda Barış | Senior Advisor: Psychology graduate with pedagogical training, holds a master’s in Clinical Psychology from Uskudar University. She actively engages in various projects, including supporting children’s development, facilitating workshops for girls, and volunteering with victims of violence. Currently, works as a play therapist and psychologist about GBV at Tarlabasi Community Center while serving as President of the Board and Co-Coordinator at BoMoVu, actively working with clients.
Dr. Marta Bon | Senior Expert: Notable Slovenian sports scientist and academic, affiliated with the University of Ljubljana. She is recognized for her extensive research in sports training, sports psychology, and kinesiology. In addition to her academic work, Bon serves as a board member at the European Handball Federation, where she contributes to the development and promotion of handball across Europe. Her expertise spans enhancing sports performance and integrating scientific principles into practical sports applications.
Dr. Mojca Doupona | Senior Expert: Member of Ex-Com of EAS and full professor of Sports Sociology at the University of Ljubljana. Coordinated several national, European, and International research and educational projects and organized the last four editions of the biannual International Conference Youth Sport. Participated in more than ten Collaborative Partnerships projects including those related to dual careers and she was a coordinator of the EMPATIA project.
Dr. İlknur Hacısoftaoğlu | Senior Advisor: Professor of sports sociology, a faculty member at the Sport Management Department of Istanbul Bilgi University, and also the coordinator of Gender Studies Excellence Field at the same university. Profound experience in international sports projects including those within the framework of Erasmus+. An executive committee member at BoMoVu.
Gilnitz Kotza | Senior Expert: Sociologist by profession, worked in Germany for 18 years on different projects to prevent gender-based violence and addiction through sports. She was a consultant and project manager at a centre against sexual violence and a women’s shelter in Marburg and Wetzlar. She has Psychotraumatology Specialist Counseling and Wendo trainer certificates. She is a self-defence trainer for girls and women and the vice president of BoMoVu.
Berkan Küçükyılmaz | Administrative Personnel: PhD candidate in the field of Sports Sciences at Marmara University. Currently, the strength & conditioning coach of girls’ U18 and U16 national handball teams. Also working for the Turkish Handball Federation as International Projects Officer. Played handball for 15 years.
Güneş Viter | Project Manager: Faculty member at Özyeğin University, concentrating her scientific studies on sports sociology with a specialization in gender in sports. Has been a professional handball player for 28 years, and acted as coordinator in several sports organizations and events both in Turkey and abroad. Currently the chairwoman of the Women’s Board of the Turkish Handball Federation and a lecturer at the European Handball Federation