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Ceren Kazanci

Ecologist

Credentials:

BA Chemistry, MSc Biotechnology at METU, Ankara, Turkey; PhD Ecology (direction: ethnobotany) at Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia


Brief Bio:

I am an ecologist focused on the ethnobotany of transhumant pastoralists in Lesser Caucasus. Soner and I have been taking videos since 2016 about witnessed folkloric elements of people and nature, and also producing and arranging workshops of plant-based values. Besides this, I have been working as an independent researcher or consultant on ethnobotany projects.

As an Indigenous Laz, I believe that important steps should be taken to restore our ancient ways of life. So, I would like to detail the ties and relations of the Our People with all living and non-living environments and I want to unearth my culture and contribute to its conservation and continuity. Since 2020, I have been gardening in Arhavi near the Black Sea coast on the border of Georgia. I am eager to contribute to the conservation and revitalization of the agricultural heritage of Colchis lands and its past by tracking the traditional ecological knowledge of our people.  


Project Abstract:

"The Journey of Learning Laz Language from Plants" documentary project tells the story of how an ecologist and ethnobotanist Ceren Kazancı Oruç, who is far from her mother Laz language and her ancient lands for years, getting closer to her mother tongue and People. Ceren first learns about the cultural keystone plant species of Laz People. During her journey, she becomes aware of the importance of the diversity of plant use among the Laz society, various plant names in the Laz language, and their cultural values and presence in the memories.


Website(s): http://bitkilervelazlar.wordpress.com/


Link(s): portfolio


Social Media(s): @mtka.laz.bitki @sifaheybesi

Ceren Kazanci
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