In the city of Kütahya, Turkey, a man named Remzi Telli, known among students as "Uncle Remzi," has become a symbol of empathy. More than just a shopkeeper, he is a pillar of support for young people far from home.
The Emergence of a Beloved Figure in the Servi Neighborhood In the heart of the historic city of Kütahya, a story is being written whose hero is neither a politician nor a celebrity, but a simple 67-year-old shopkeeper named Remzi Telli. Having migrated to Kütahya about 33 years ago, he has now become one of the city's most beloved figures. In his small shop in the "Servi" neighborhood, Remzi Telli thinks more about the welfare of students who come to this city for education than about material profit [1].
His journey began 18 years ago, in 2008, with small gestures of help to a few students. Today, however, his name is tied to the lives of more than 1,700 students from "Dumlupınar" University. In an interview with local media, he stated that his love for students and understanding of their difficult conditions have been the main motivations for continuing this long journey [2].
Why Do Students Call Him "Uncle"? The title "Uncle Remzi," or in some cases "Papa Remzi," was not earned easily. He stands by the youth through all stages of student life, from the moment they enter the city until graduation. His services include many things that might not fall under the duties of any shopkeeper. From finding suitable housing and guaranteeing rent to covering small educational costs and even providing travel tickets for students who cannot afford to return to their hometowns [1].
One interesting aspect of his activities is his extensive network of connections with the city's repairmen. Remzi Telli says: "When a student's washing machine, vacuum cleaner, or refrigerator breaks down, they immediately come to me. I know about 70% of the repairmen in Kütahya and I call them so they can solve my children's problems with the lowest cost and the highest care" [2]. This level of compassion has led new students, on the advice of upperclassmen, to make Uncle Remzi's shop the first place they seek out in the city.
A Legacy Passed from One Generation to the Next Remzi Telli's influence is not limited to the years of study. He is now witnessing the fruits of his efforts. Many students who graduated 10 or 15 years ago still maintain their connection with him. These graduates, who now have their own jobs and families, make sure to visit him during their trips to Kütahya [1].
Remzi Telli recounts with a smile that some of these former students now come to see him with their children, introducing him to the new generation as "Grandpa Remzi." He says: "Having children all over Turkey is the greatest wealth I have accumulated over these years. Every time someone calls from another city to ask how I am, the fatigue of all these years leaves my body" [2].
The Importance of Human Bonds in University Towns The story of Uncle Remzi in Kütahya is more than just local news; it carries a global message about humanity and empathy. In a world where human relationships are becoming colder, the presence of such individuals in university towns can lift the psychological and economic burden off students' shoulders. He has proven that to change the lives of others, one does not need great wealth; rather, a big heart and a firm will to help fellow human beings are enough [1].
Remzi Telli (Uncle Remzi), who has been helping Dumlupınar University students in Kütahya for 18 years.
linkSources
- O, Kütahya’da üniversite öğrencilerinin “Remzi amcası” — Kütahya Ekspres (2026-07-11)
- Kütahya'da 1,700 Öğrencinin Hayatına Dokunan Remzi Telli — Kütahya Ekspres (2026-07-12)
