Beril Berk—attorney, leader, and tireless volunteer—is making a meaningful difference in Richardson. Almost eight years ago, Berk moved to the U.S. after working as a corporate attorney in Turkey. While in Turkey, Berk loved connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and had friends from all ethnicities and cities throughout the country. When Berk came to the U.S., she planted roots in Texas and has since found many ways to serve the Richardson community. 

A PASSION FOR FOSTERING INCLUSIVITY 

 Because Berk is passionate about celebrating diversity and connecting people across cultures, she found Richardson to be a place where her dedication to fostering those connections could be put to good use and discovered many kindred spirits in the city. States Berk, “I think one of the best ways [to create connections] is to encourage face-to-face interactions, such as community gatherings, dialogue events, and cultural exchanges where people can connect on a personal level.” An alumnus of Leadership Richardson Class 38, Berk also serves on the Board of Network, the Richardson Police Academy Advisory Board, and is an active member of the Richardson Chamber’s Women in help individuals better understand and appreciate different perspectives. Leadership Committee. She says, “The Richardson Interfaith Alliance and civic organizations such as Richardson Chamber of Commerce play a crucial role in bringing diverse groups together.” She notes that schools, workplaces, nonprofit organizations and religious institutions who offer programs to teach cultural competency “The City of Richardson has been incredibly supportive in fostering a culture of inclusivity and engagement. Through its leadership, various community initiatives, and partnerships with organizations like The Dialogue Institute Dallas, Richardson has created an environment where dialogue and collaboration can truly thrive,” Berk reflects.  

Pastor Clayton Oliphint with Beril Berk at the Dialogue Institute’s interfaith Ramadan dinner at FUMCR

WORK WITH THE DIALOGUE INSTITUTE DALLAS  

While Berk was preparing for the bar exam in the U.S., she first became involved with Richardson’s Dialogue Institute as a volunteer. “The alignment of the organization’s mission with my values, aims and perspectives led me to take on a greater role as the Executive Director. It has been a rewarding journey, allowing me to continue fostering understanding and connection among communities,” states Berk. The Dialogue Institute’s key initiatives include activities ranging from an annual art contest for high school and college students to a First Responders appreciation dinner. They also co-host Interfaith Ramadan Dinners at various places such as houses of worship, hospitals, police departments during Ramadan every year in an effort to create cross-cultural connections. Another exciting collaboration occurs at the Dialogue Institute’s Community Connect events, at which community members can learn about Richardson’s nonprofit organizations and volunteer opportunities. And the annual International Women’s Day Dinner and Panel is another one of the group’s signature events, during which distinguished women in their fields join the Dialogue Institute for a panel and dinner. States Berk, “The most fulfilling aspect is witnessing the transformation that happens when people connect beyond surface-level differences. When a person’s perception of another culture or faith shifts from assumption to understanding, it creates lasting friendships and strengthens community bonds. Seeing these bridges being built is truly rewarding.”  

COMMUNITY SUPPORT  

Berk is quick to emphasize that none of the work she leads at the Dialogue Institute would be possible without the dedication and generosity of volunteers, local friends, and community partners. States Berk, “Some of our local friends have been attending and volunteering at our events for years and their ongoing support has been instrumental in making our programs successful.” In addition to the City’s support of the Dialogue Institute, Berk is quick to praise the City’s Leadership Richardson program. States Berk, “Leadership Richardson Class 38 was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in my life. I truly enjoyed learning about the City works together with all its institutions and how they collaborate on a regional level.” She goes on to say, “Besides, one of the best parts [of LR38] was coming together with professionals who were all best in their areas, networking with them and learning from each other. For everyone who likes to be social and engage with the local community, I strongly suggest participating in the program. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce your organization or your work to a wider community.”  

COMPASSIONATE DFW  

Berk is also very involved in Compassionate DFW. A part of the global Charter for Compassion movement, the organization is dedicated to promoting compassionate actions in communities. Says Berk, “As board members, we work on initiatives that encourage civic engagement, social justice, and interfaith cooperation. In Richardson, we collaborate with local organizations to support underserved communities, promote understanding, and create initiatives that bring people together for meaningful conversations and service projects.” Both the Dialogue Institute and Compassion DFW intersect in their mission-based focus, according to Berk. They both have community based projects, volunteer initiatives, and collaborative events, all aimed at strengthening connections and building a more unified, understanding, and service-oriented society.  

WORDS OF WISDOM  

Berk believes in the power of patience and persistence. She reflects, “Meaningful change takes time; even in the face of challenges, it is important to stay committed to fostering understanding and building bridges. If we don’t actively engage in creating positive connections, we risk leaving space for division and misunderstanding. That’s why I believe in continuing the work, no matter how small the steps may seem—because every effort contributes to a stronger, more inclusive community and eventually a world where our children and their families can live in peace and harmony.”  

Berk and her family on vacation

ON A PERSONAL NOTE  

Berk has dedicated her life to serving others and credits her family for being tremendously supportive of her work on all fronts. She and husband Yusuf Ziya have two sons, Yusuf (Joseph in English) and Yunus (Jonah). Berk endeavors to balance her work as an attorney, a civic leader, a wife and mom with finding time to pursue her own interests. A lifelong learner, Berk enjoys discovering a new dish, new handicraft, how a new belief, a new place…and the meanings and traditions behind each one of them. She also enjoys writing and would love to have a travel blog, be a travel writer and have a publishing company if she had all the time in the world. She also likes travelling and seeing new places, spending time with family, trying new cuisines at home, and watching figure skating at the Olympics. When she’s not working or volunteering, friends might spot Berk having a Turkish latte at her favorite hot spot, La Casita Bakery Shop, or attending a performance or cultural event at the Eisemann Center. Regardless of where she is, Beril Berk’s light shines brightly.