#Kazakhstan #Astana #Bulat Utemuratov Foundation #AmCham Award #Autism Program

Bulat Utemuratov Foundation's Autism Program Recognized with AmCham Healthcare Award

In a significant achievement for autism advocacy, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation's flagship autism initiative, "One World for All," was awarded the esteemed Healthcare Award at the annual American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) ceremony held on November 21, 2025, in Astana, Kazakhstan. This recognition highlights the program's pivotal role in supporting and integrating individuals with autism in the country.

Established in 2015, the program manages 13 Asyl-Miras Autism Centers across 12 cities in Kazakhstan, providing free services that combine the expertise of psychologists, speech therapists, and behavior analysts with internationally recognized evidence-based methods such as ABA therapy, JASPER, the Early Childhood Intervention Model, and MCRR crisis management strategies. Over the past decade, the initiative has successfully supported more than 17,000 children and their families, while training over 300 professionals to implement high-quality intervention measures.

The impact of the program extends beyond direct assistance; it has also played a key role in raising public awareness and fostering a culture of inclusion in Kazakhstan. Initiatives like the "Autism Friendly" project have trained employees at airports in Almaty and Kyzylorda, along with staff from Air Astana, to make environments more accessible for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Almaz Sharman, Chair of the Board of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, commented on the significance of the award, stating, "For us, this award is an acknowledgment that the topic of inclusion is becoming increasingly important in society. When we launched the Autism program, One World for All, our goal was to help children with ASD realize their potential and be part of a world that accepts and supports them. Today, we are witnessing real change; thousands of families have found support, and society has become more open and understanding. This motivates us to continue our efforts."

This is the second consecutive year that the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has been recognized by AmCham, having previously received the award in 2024 for its extensive charitable work and contributions to the social development of Kazakhstan. The American Chamber of Commerce in Kazakhstan represents leading international and local companies across key economic sectors, promoting a competitive, transparent, and investment-friendly business environment through advocacy, political dialogue, and collaboration with the government of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The ongoing efforts of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation highlight the critical need for programs that promote early diagnosis, professional training, and inclusive practices for children with ASD. As awareness grows and support systems strengthen, initiatives like "One World for All" are paving the way for a brighter future for individuals with autism in Kazakhstan.



While the recent award marks a significant milestone, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive society where individuals with autism can thrive and contribute to their communities. The work of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation remains vital in this mission, ensuring that autism advocacy and support continues to progress in Kazakhstan.