My Three Years in Istanbul: A Journey of Growth and Opportunity

As I prepare to close this chapter of my life and move back to Los Angeles, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve had over the past three years in Istanbul. What began as an unexpected visit turned into a transformative adventure filled with remarkable opportunities and personal growth.

I arrived in Istanbul with no intention of staying long, but the city had other plans. The first opportunity that came my way was from Dolcezza Montreal, a textile company that quickly became like family. Working with EMC and Ercan Indap was an enriching experience that I will always treasure.

The second opportunity was a dream come true: a TV presenting role at TRT World. Becoming a TV presenter had always been my aspiration, and Istanbul made it a reality. This role allowed me to grow both professionally and personally, helping me become more confident and bold.

Beyond my career, Istanbul has been a place of immense personal growth. I’ve evolved into a more self-assured and empowered woman, embracing my inner femme fatale. The friendships I’ve formed here are with some of the most beautiful and intelligent women I’ve ever met, and I know these connections will last a lifetime.

My time in Istanbul has been filled with unforgettable experiences:

  • Four billboards in three years showcasing my work.
  • Cold plunges that invigorated my spirit.
  • Masquerade balls that added a touch of mystery and glamour to my life.
  • Golf photoshoots that combined my love for fashion and sport.
  • Bosphorus walks that offered serene moments of reflection.
  • Baklava feasts that satisfied my sweet tooth.
  • My first lead role in a reelshort drama, a milestone in my acting career.
  • Bodrum boat parties that were the epitome of summer fun.
  • Blue Mosque visits that left me in awe of Istanbul’s rich history and architecture.
  • Marathons that tested my endurance and determination.
  • Fish restaurants that delighted my taste buds with fresh, local cuisine.
  • Horse riding at Kemer Country Club, a perfect escape into nature.
  • Henna parties that celebrated cultural traditions.
  • Skiing in Kayseri, an exhilarating winter adventure.
  • Belgrade Forest runs that kept me fit and connected to nature.
  • Sober rave parties at Soho House, redefining nightlife.
  • Steak dinners at Nusr-et, a culinary delight.

Istanbul has changed me in profound ways. It has taught me Patience, resilience, adaptability, and the importance of seizing opportunities. From the lowest moments of uncertainty to the highest peaks of success, I have grown immensely. Starting from zero and working my way up in just three years is an accomplishment I am incredibly proud of. One of my proudest achievements is learning to speak Basic Turkish  in these three years, which has deepened my connection to the culture and people of this vibrant city.

Being banned from the US was a challenging setback, but it led me to find my purpose in Istanbul. I stepped out of the modeling world and followed my dream of becoming a presenter and a businesswoman. This city has given me the platform to achieve my goals and the confidence to pursue my passions.

As I prepare to return to Los Angeles, I carry with me the memories, experiences, and friendships that have shaped me over these three incredible years. Istanbul will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for every moment spent in this vibrant city. Here’s to new beginnings and the exciting adventures that await in Los Angeles!

Business

Iggy presenting new tv show

Happy to announce that Iggy will be hosting Showcase by TRT World this season

SHOWCASE: Keeping you up to beat with the latest on the global arts and culture scene.

TRT World’s flagship arts and culture programme airs on the weekdays and “Showcase Review” on the weekends covering prominent cultural and art events. Generally, coverage on culture and arts is mostly based on the western axis, but at Showcase we try to cover the east, the west, the north and the south. The programme covers a range of topics such as cinema, music, traditional arts, contemporary art, architecture, design and fashion.

 

 

TV SHOWS

IGGY hosted the black carpet for Urban November

IGGY hosting Black carpet

Saturday 26 November

IGGY hosted the black carpet for Urban November

Background

Urban November is an artistic collaboration primarily between some of the biggest names in the African and Turkish creative industry.

Since 2018, an art exhibition to celebrate and showcase their creative journey is held in Istanbul every November. The idea was conceived and brought to life by Akai Stephen and his Turkish business partner Ugur Bir. Both are architects by profession and have been working together for nearly a decade.

This year’s exhibition is themed around some of Nigeria’s gods and deities expressed on fabrics, glass, and illuminated by a golden dash of white light. The evolution of the female mind on canvas and the infinity murmurations of pigeons which, according to the artist, symbolizes the soul of Istanbul are just but a few on display.

Urban November
Events