Mehmet Demiryürek, 77, has been repairing shoes in the Kapaklı district of Tekirdağ for nearly 60 years. Working from a small shop inside a coffeehouse, Demiryürek proudly continues his craft, which he says is fading in popularity among younger generations.
Demiryürek, who began his shoe repair career after military service, emphasized that the profession must be done with passion. “I love this job, and as long as I’m healthy, I’ll keep doing it,” he said. Despite the long hours, working from morning until evening six days a week, and even on Sundays, he remains dedicated to his trade.
Although his son chose a different path, Demiryürek expressed no desire to retire, continuing to serve around 50 customers daily. He also trained three apprentices in Sivas, his hometown, where they have since become successful tradesmen.
Berke Özen