Stories from the first generation of highly-skilled Turkish immigrants in the Netherlands

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Migration has always been a part of human history. People move for many reasons—work, safety, better opportunities, or a fresh start. Today, as industries change and economies evolve, many countries seek highly-skilled workers to stay competitive in the global economy. Europe, in particular, welcomes professionals in fields like high-tech, healthcare, and engineering to meet growing labor demands. At the same time, migration remains a sensitive topic. While skilled workers are needed, political debates about immigration are becoming more intense. Some groups call for stricter borders, making migration a complex and often controversial issue.
 
Newcomers is a photography project that sheds light on the experiences of highly-skilled Turkish migrants who have relocated to the Netherlands since the 2010s. During this period, Türkiye has undergone significant political and economic shifts, leading many white collar professionals to seek stability and new opportunities abroad. This phenomenon, often referred to as brain drain, has caused engineers, academics, doctors, and other experts to migrate to Western countries including France, Germany, the UK and  the Netherlands.

This project dives into the personal journeys of these newcomers, exploring themes of adaptation, belonging, and integration into Dutch society. Through in-depth interviews and photography, Newcomers captures their lived experiences, offering a nuanced perspective on building a new life in a foreign country.

Photography, project management, editor: Sultan Çetin
Curator & co-editor: Özge Baykan Calafato