Washington, D.C. (September 9th, 2026) The U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s U.S.-Türkiye Business Council (USTBC) today announced the launch of the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council Next Generation Fellowship, a new initiative connecting talented Turkish students and young professionals in the United States with American companies—fostering career development and deeper economic ties between the two countries. The program will officially launch on October 26 at a day-long event in New York City, bringing together students, young professionals, and employers, with Chobani Founder and CEO and USTBC Chair Hamdi Ulukaya keynoting the proceedings.
“The strength of the U.S.-Türkiye relationship lies in its people,” said Hamdi Ulukaya. “Through this fellowship, we are investing in the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation, build bridges between our economies, and create long-lasting partnerships for years to come.”
The two-year fellowship program will be a first-of-its-kind professional network connecting Turkish students and early-career professionals in the United States with U.S. companies, universities, trade associations, and civic organizations.
“This program reflects our commitment to strengthening international talent pipelines and expanding opportunity through meaningful business engagement,” added Khush Choksy, Senior Vice President for International Member Relations and Senior Vice President of the Middle East, Central Asia and Türkiye at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “By connecting U.S. companies and Turkish students and young professionals, we are building a durable network benefitting both economies.”
Two fellows, based full-time at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., will lead the effort, working closely with universities, corporate partners, and community organizations. The October 26 launch event in New York City will serve as the program's inaugural convening, bringing together students, young professionals, and some of the U.S.’s top employers.
About the U.S.-Türkiye Business Council
The U.S. Chamber’s U.S.-Türkiye Business Council is the premier business advocacy organization established to expand the bilateral commercial and trade relationship.
