Mr. Hamidi, let’s begin by getting to know you. Where were you born, and what was your childhood like?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I was born in 1964 in Batman, Türkiye. My childhood unfolded in this historic city. Batman taught me the value of hard work and the importance of serving the community. Those early years laid the foundation for my character.
How did your educational journey progress?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I completed my primary and secondary education in Batman, then attended Süleyman Çelebi High School in Bursa. Later, I graduated from Çukurova University’s Faculty of Agriculture, specializing in Agricultural Structures and Irrigation. That academic foundation guided me through both my public service and private sector ventures.
How did you enter the public sector?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I began at Batman Municipality, where I worked on urban infrastructure, public engagement, and planned development. Later, I joined the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP) Regional Development Administration as an expert and deputy chairman. I led projects that shaped GAP’s human-centered development vision.
Your GAP experience sounds impactful. What did you learn during that time?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I helped transform GAP into a globally recognized development model by integrating multi-sectoral planning with social projects. I learned that regional development isn’t just about infrastructure—it requires strategies centered on people. I also shared this vision in academic and international platforms.
How did you transition from public service to the private sector?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I carried my public sector experience into entrepreneurship, founding and chairing companies like HMD Enerji, RG Enerji, and SAHA Emir Enerji. We developed projects in construction, renewable energy, and EV charging stations across Türkiye, creating jobs and contributing to sustainable growth.
You’ve also worked internationally. Can you tell us about that?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I established HMD Energy Construction D.O.O. in Montenegro, launching a residential project of 76 apartments in Budva. I also conducted technical studies in countries like Germany, France, Italy, the U.S., and Israel, and took courses in communication and business administration at UC Davis University.
You’ve collaborated with international organizations too. What did those experiences bring?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I participated in workshops with CIHEAM and ICARDA on rural development and water management. These experiences broadened my global perspective and helped me bridge local development with international strategies.
Could you share a bit about your family life?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I’m married with two children. I lead a life rooted in family, heritage, and service to my country. I speak English fluently, which allows me to communicate effectively both locally and globally.
Finally, how do you hope to use your experience moving forward?
Şerafettin HAMİDİ: I’m committed to using my knowledge and experience to support Türkiye’s development and inspire younger generations. Guiding and empowering them is my greatest motivation.
