A Multifaceted Icon in Fashion and Media
Özer Akkeleş is more than just a model—he is a visionary, cultural ambassador, and entrepreneur who has reshaped the fashion landscape of Northern Cyprus and Turkey. Renowned for his early success in modeling, his accomplishments now span across publishing, event production, and international cultural representation.
Modeling Roots: Rising to Fame
Akkeleş’s journey into the spotlight began in 2009 when he was crowned Mr. North Cyprus, a title that opened doors to wider recognition. Just two years later, he represented the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus at the Best Model of the World 2011 competition, where he showcased his elegance and charisma on an international platform. His presence marked a proud moment for Cypriot modeling on the global stage.
Founder of EnModa: A Platform for Fashion and Culture
In 2012, Özer Akkeleş turned his passion for style and storytelling into a bold entrepreneurial move by founding EnModa Magazine. Published in Turkish and distributed in both Cyprus and Turkey through the Dergilik app, the magazine has become a premier voice in fashion, beauty, health, and entertainment. EnModa is not just a publication—it is a movement dedicated to highlighting regional talent and connecting Cyprus to the broader fashion world.
Celebrating Excellence: The EnModa International Awards
Akkeleş’s influence doesn’t stop at the page. As the founder and director of the EnModa International Awards, he organizes one of the most prestigious fashion and arts events in the region. The awards draw designers, artists, and cultural icons from around the world, celebrating excellence in creativity while placing Northern Cyprus at the center of global conversations around art and fashion.
Architect by Training, Designer by Passion
With a professional background in architecture, Akkeleş brings a refined aesthetic and a deep understanding of spatial design to his events. His architectural skills are evident in the stunning stage and event designs that define EnModa’s productions, marrying function with artistic expression.
A Cultural Representative at the Cannes Film Festival
In May 2024, Akkeleş made headlines as he attended the 77th Cannes Film Festival, representing Northern Cyprus not with a film, but with a mission—to showcase Cypriot fashion and culture to the world. As the founder of EnModa Magazine, his presence was a powerful statement about the region’s creative potential. While he wasn’t competing, his visibility at Cannes sent a clear message: Northern Cyprus is ready to claim its place on the global cultural map.
Legacy of Influence
Through his modeling accolades, entrepreneurial ventures, and global appearances, Özer Akkeleş has become a cultural bridge between Cyprus, Turkey, and the international fashion community. His dedication to promoting Cypriot creativity has brought increased recognition to a region rich in talent and ambition. With each milestone, he not only elevates his own legacy but also carves a brighter path for the artists and dreamers of Northern Cyprus.
