Starting Over Through Movement: Sevda Göbelek and a Safe Space Exclusively for Women

For Sevda Göbelek, a university-graduate mother, her professional life took on a whole new meaning through a drawing her daughter made one day. Driven by the desire to discover her own potential and to produce, Sevda completed her Pilates instructor training and earned her professional certifications. While things were going great for Sevda—who quickly built a loyal client base—the earthquake disaster brought everything to a standstill.

The First Step Comes With a Gift

Losing both her close friend (the business owner), her workplace, and her home in the earthquake, Sevda entered a challenging period. However, the flow of life extended a helping hand from an unexpected place: a Pilates reformer machine, salvaged intact from her former workplace, was gifted to her.

This machine became a symbol for Sevda to stand back up on her feet and return to her work. Quickly transforming a room in her rented house into a Pilates space, Sevda resumed her classes right where she left off, with the support of her former clients.

Building a “Safe Haven” for Mothers

This process that Sevda started in a home environment gradually began to meet a very special need: mothers with children. As an instructor, Sevda professionally analyzed her clients’ needs. By adding refreshments, a children’s play area, and an activity corner to her room, she transformed this space into a peaceful social hub. Women found the comfort of being able to exercise in an environment where they could keep their children with them. This approach made Sevda the primary and trusted choice for mothers in the region.

Growing Capacity, Strengthening the Business

Moving her business out of her home and into an independent studio with the support of her family, Sevda began the process of formalizing her business. The Pilates reformer support provided by MaviKalem played a critical role in increasing her capacity. Now able to serve more women, Sevda uses the income she generates both to invest in her business and to meet the needs of her children.

Where Expertise and Solidarity Meet

Today, working full-time and by appointment, Sevda Göbelek continues to offer both physical and motivational support to women. For her, Pilates instructing is more than just a job; it is the name of a new life and solidarity built in the wake of losses.

Sevda’s story tells us this: when you combine your expertise with proper planning and solidarity, it is possible to build a sustainable future even under the most difficult conditions.