Zeynep A. Talu-Balci
In the grand narrative of my life, February 2024 will forever stand as not just a mere passage of time but as a vibrant testament to transformation and the boundless possibilities that leap years bring. It was during this leap year—a symbol of rarity and opportunity—that an unexpected invitation arrived, marking the beginning of a journey that would intertwine the threads of serendipity, innovation, and personal growth into the fabric of my story.
This invitation, extended by the Turkish Consul General of Miami, initially painted in my mind the picture of a gathering rich in cultural discourse. I envisioned a dialogue on the symbiosis between South Florida and Turkish developers, highlighting the seamless incorporation of Türkiye’s exquisite resources into South Florida’s flourishing real estate scene.
As it turned out, destiny had a different narrative in mind. What I thought was going to be an evening steeped in the familiar turned out to be a rendezvous with the future—an evening dedicated to technology and innovation.
Yet, rather than stepping back into the shadows, this unexpected twist empowered me to step into the exhilarating realm of tech. It felt as though fate gently nudged me onto a new path, sprinkling my journey with a dose of digital magic and a hint of the unexpected.
This foray into the tech world was further ignited by a chance meeting with Burhan Sebin, the visionary Head of Research at Venture Miami, an initiative poised to reforge Miami into a thriving tech hub. This encounter flung open the doors to the Built in Miami Startup Program—a melting pot for ambitious entrepreneurs and tech aficionados. With the deadline looming, I submitted my application, joining the ranks of over 200 dynamic founders, each breathing life into their unique visions beneath Miami’s kaleidoscopic skies—a testament to the city’s burgeoning culture of innovation, diversity, and ambition.
Stepping into a room filled with coders and software engineers initially left me feeling intimidated and a world away from my expertise. Yet, in this moment of intimidation, I found strength in the story of Henry Ford and his Model T. Ford, with no formal education in automobiles, not only challenged but also changed the industry through sheer vision and determination. This story of determination sparked a profound shift of perception and served as a reminder that groundbreaking achievements often arise not from the abundance of resources but from the power of vision and relentless pursuit.
Then on what seemed like just another ordinary Saturday, my visit to Nova Southeastern University Campus in Davie for a development discussion unexpectedly coincided with the “Boca at Nova” event, a celebrated motorcar festival that showcases the world of collectible automobiles and emphasizes philanthropy.
To my amazement, amidst this vibrant gathering, stood a remarkable testament to automotive history—a 1915 Ford T Coupe Cabriolet. The event had just concluded, which fortuitously allowed me the privilege to witness the awakening of this vintage masterpiece. With the turn of the crank handle at the front it didn’t merely come to life; it awakened with a distinctive roar, a call to the past, a mechanical symphony of simplicity and raw power. The throaty roar that filled the air symbolized the spirit of adventure and the freedom to explore.
Being in the presence of this historical gem, I felt a deep connection to Ford’s enduring legacy. This encounter was no mere coincidence; it felt like a deliberate message, a gentle nudge from the universe itself, shining a light on the legacy of those who dared to dream big. This moment was a poignant affirmation that success is not predicated on having all the answers or resources but on the willingness to dream, to question, and to persevere against all odds.
As I stand on the cusp of my next grand adventure, poised to attend MIPIM in Cannes, France as a tech startup, I carry forward the invaluable lessons gleaned from this remarkable February. The journey from a misinterpreted invitation to the precipice of technological innovation has been nothing short of transformative. This narrative that I write on the unique day of February 29, 2024, reminds me of the extraordinary gift that leap years offer us—an extra day to dream, to dare, and to leap towards our aspirations.
Let’s embrace the leap years of our lives. Let’s seize the additional day. Let’s make every moment count in our quest for innovation and success. Here’s to the leaps we take, the dreams we chase, and the endless possibilities that unfold when we dare to embrace the unknown. May this story inspire other startups and women in all walks of life across the globe to believe in their potential to innovate and transform the world, regardless of the resources at hand. As we navigate the intricacies of our individual odysseys, let us cling to the conviction that every hurdle presents an opportunity for innovation, transforming obstacles to gateways of discovery. Serendipitous encounters are not mere coincidences but signposts guiding us toward our destined achievements.
As we journey through the intricate dance of our lives, let’s remember Henry Ford’s powerful insight: ‘Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.’ Like Henry Ford, let us push the boundaries of what is possible, reminding ourselves and the world that the greatest achievements often start with a single step, a bold dream, and the courage to pursue it against all odds.
Zeynep A. Talu-Balci,
MSIRE Founder,
Makos RE
www.makosre.com
