With over a decade of experience in international humanitarian work and disaster response, Teyfik Cem Binatli brings exceptional leadership and strategic expertise to his role as Head of Relief Operations. A graduate of Bilkent University in International Relations, Teyfik has dedicated his career to alleviating human suffering by adopting sustainable solutions for vulnerable communities worldwide.

Before joining Project Yananai, Teyfik served as the Country Representative and Head of Delegation for the Turkish Red Crescent in Indonesia and Myanmar. In these roles, he spearheaded initiatives that provided emergency relief, rebuilt essential infrastructure, and enhanced community resilience. Notably, his efforts enabled rural agricultural communities to achieve sustainable livelihoods and facilitated the reconstruction of Poboya Primary School for over 400 students following the devastating Sulawesi earthquake and tsunami.

Teyfik’s expertise spans emergency response operations, programme management, stakeholder engagement, and humanitarian diplomacy. He has participated in numerous emergency response missions, working in close coordination with the wider Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, synergising joint efforts to improve conditions on the ground. He has represented his organisation at high-level global forums, including the UNDRR’s 7th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, and has successfully driven cross-border cooperation on disaster preparedness and response.

In his current role, Teyfik oversees Project Yananai's relief operations, ensuring that humanitarian relief reaches those in need efficiently and equitably. Known for his innovative problem-solving and commitment to empowering communities through the localisation initiative, he is passionate about fostering long-term recovery and resilience in the face of crises.

When not coordinating relief efforts, Teyfik enjoys art and freshwater aquascaping while writing a historical novel. He is fluent in English and Turkish and holds numerous certifications in humanitarian action and project management.