I am Emir Onur Romano Cilek, a human rights leader with 13+ years of executive experience in nonprofit governance, refugee protection, and advocacy across Turkey, Canada, and the U.S. Currently pursuing an MA in Global Leadership at Royal Roads University, I merge frontline humanitarian work with strategic policy innovation. Why I’m a Strong Candidate:
- Nonprofit Leadership & Governance:
- Founded 5 NGOs:
- Ateistler Meclisi (Congress of Atheists, Turkey)
- Ateist Dergi (Atheist Magazine, Turkey)
- Ateizm Dernegi (Association of Atheism, Turkey)
- Society of Agnostics and Atheists of Georgia
- Ateizm Dernegi International Foundation Canada
- President of Atheist Alliance International (2016–2017): Oversaw 13 global projects, increased funding by 40% through transparency reforms.
- Chair of Human Rights, Centre for Inquiry Canada (2021–present):
- Lead policy development and refugee programs (e.g., Assistance for Apostates).
- Founded 5 NGOs:
- Refugee & Human Rights Expertise:
- Programs Managed:
- Atheist Refugee Assistance Program (ARAP) under Ateizm Dernegi Turkey (109 refugees assisted).
- Assistance for Apostates (A4A) under CFIC Canada (46 cases).
- Secular Rescue under CFI USA (46 high-risk cases since 2024).
- Combined annual budget: $214k USD.
- Policy Advocacy: Drafted Canada’s E-Petition 3114 (2021) for atheist asylum seekers; lead prison reform research (2023–2025).
- Programs Managed:
- Advocacy & Coalition-Building:
- Secured UN Consultative Status for Ateizm Dernegi and AAI.
- Organized 100+ events, produced 400+ podcasts, and served as spokesperson for secular human rights.
- Operational Excellence:
- HR: Improved volunteer retention by 25% via structured recruitment.
- Financial Stewardship: Raised $150k in 2023 through grants and donor campaigns.
My work defending persecuted atheists and advancing inclusive policies aligns with Amnesty’s mission. I offer proven governance skills, global networks, and a commitment to intersectional justice.
