From the bustling streets of Ankara to the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, Sirin Colakoglu's journey has been one of passion, determination, and a deep-rooted belief in the power of women. Born and raised in Turkey, Sirin's early life was shaped by the rich cultural tapestry of her homeland.
After graduating with a degree in Business Administration from Ankara University, Sirin embarked on a successful career as an accounting director for several prestigious companies. Her sharp intellect and unwavering work ethic quickly propelled her up the corporate ladder.
But something was missing.
"I realized that my true passion lay in empowering women and celebrating their incredible talents," Sirin shares.
Driven by this realization and a desire to spend more time with her beloved daughter, Sirin made a bold decision – to leave the corporate world behind and pursue her dream. This dream was to create a space where women artisans from around the world could showcase their unique skills and connect with a supportive community. As she navigated the challenges of being an immigrant, a mother, and a woman re-entering the workforce, she realized a profound truth:
"Every woman faces similar challenges in life, no matter where they live."
Inspired by the strong women in her life and the vibrant artistry of her Turkish heritage, Sirin founded Dreams of Rhea. This online platform serves as a bridge between talented women artisans and conscious consumers who appreciate handcrafted goods with a soul.
"Women are the foundational forces behind the beauty of this world," Sirin believes. "When we nurture and empower them, they can achieve extraordinary things."
Sirin's vision for Dreams of Rhea extends beyond simply selling beautiful products. She envisions it as a thriving community where women support and inspire each other. She dreams of a global sisterhood where women lift each other up and achieve extraordinary things together. Imagine workshops where skills are shared, forums buzzing with ideas, and a sisterhood that spans continents.
"Dreams of Rhea is more than just an e-commerce store; it's a celebration of women, their creativity, and their resilience," Sirin explains.
When Sirin isn't busy chasing her dreams, she enjoys the simplicity and beauty of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. Inspired by the women in her family, she whips up culinary delights, from traditional Turkish dishes to innovative creations. (And yes, sometimes even lasagna eaten with a spoon!) For Sirin, cooking is an act of love, a way to connect with those she cherishes.
Sirin's journey is a testament to the power of following your dreams and making a positive impact on the world. Through Dreams of Rhea, she is not only providing a platform for women artisans to thrive but also inspiring countless others to pursue their passions and make a difference.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the women of Dreams of Rhea!