#Kazakhstan #Almaty #Bulat Utemuratov #Autism Program #RAOUL Charity

New Employment Initiative for Young People with Autism in Kazakhstan

In a groundbreaking move for social inclusion, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, along with the RAOUL Charity Foundation, has officially commenced a new initiative designed to assist young individuals on the autism spectrum in Kazakhstan. This innovative program aims to create a structured pathway for these young people to enter the workforce and become productive members of society.

The new supported employment program focuses on establishing a practical and scalable model that will facilitate the transition of autistic youth into professional environments. By increasing access to meaningful job opportunities and incorporating internationally recognized practices into Kazakhstan's social services, the initiative is set to make a significant impact on the lives of these individuals.

Key Objectives and Support
According to Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, this initiative represents a crucial progression in enhancing opportunities for young people with autism. She emphasized that as these individuals transition into adulthood, securing employment poses one of their biggest challenges. The foundation’s goal is to develop a sustainable model that not only allows these young adults to realize their potential but also assists employers in fostering inclusive workplaces.

The RAOUL Charity Foundation plays a vital role in this program as the methodological and training partner. Drawing from their extensive international experience in supported employment, they aim to adapt global best practices for local needs. Mikhail Krivonos, an international partner at the RAOUL Charity Foundation, remarked that this collaboration strives to convert long-term support into long-term opportunity, underlining a shared belief in the abilities and potential of these individuals.

Program Implementation and Impact
The pilot phase of this initiative will see the involvement of young people with autism and various employers in sectors such as telecommunications, retail, services, logistics, and more. With methodological backing from the RAOUL Charity Foundation and partnerships with Beeline Kazakhstan and the Association of Social Innovators, participants will receive personalized assessments and customized training aligned with real job vacancies.

This tailored approach is designed to support not just entry into the labor market, but also ensure sustainable employment that takes into account the unique needs of autistic individuals.

Since its inception in 2015, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has been committed to building a robust support system for children with autism and their families. Operating a network of 13 Asyl Miras centers across 12 cities, the foundation has positively impacted over 20,000 children in the past decade. This new employment initiative marks a significant extension of their commitment, focusing on lifelong social and professional inclusion.

Future Developments
As the program unfolds, the partners are dedicated to sharing insights and results with the aim of scaling the model to additional regions across Kazakhstan. This initiative is not just about job placement; it is about empowering an entire demographic to achieve independence and dignity through meaningful work.

In conclusion, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and the RAOUL Charity Foundation's employment program represents a beacon of hope for young individuals with autism in Kazakhstan. By fostering inclusivity while enhancing skills and employment opportunities, this groundbreaking initiative is paving the way for a more equitable future for all.