#Kazakhstan #Almaty #Bulat Utemuratov #Jas Leader

Empowering Future Leaders: The Jas Leader Program

The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, established in 2021, has made remarkable strides in developing leadership qualities among young scholars in Kazakhstan through its Jas Leader Akademiiasy program. Over the past years, the initiative has seen more than 41,500 students from 124 schools across 17 regions participating in this transformative experience.

The Program's Core Objectives

Designed for students ranging from grades five to eleven, the Jas Leader program focuses on enhancing self-confidence, teamwork, communication, and self-expression. It employs a hands-on and interactive learning approach to nurture essential life skills. With over 200 teachers trained specifically for this purpose, the program ensures that the students receive high-quality education tailored to their needs.

Interactive Learning Workshops

The program's structure revolves around extracurricular workshops where students engage in discussions about leadership, explore biographies of inspiring figures, and partake in practical exercises aimed at personal growth and mutual respect. One enthusiastic participant, Akzhan Bakytbekova, an eleventh grader at I.V. Panfilov School-Lyceum No. 5, commented:
> "Jas Leader has become more than just a class for me. I have learned to speak openly, collaborate within a team, and genuinely listen to others. We once had to stand together on an increasingly smaller piece of paper, relying on one another to not fall. It may seem simple, but it taught us trust and unity. That's the essence of the program."

Annual Jas Leader Forum

Each academic year concludes with the Jas Leader Forum in Almaty, a celebratory event that gathers the most dedicated participants from across the country. The latest forum in July 2025, held at the Tau Samal summer camp, attracted more than 200 teens for a three-day experience filled with training, excursions, and sports activities. Esteemed Kazakh personalities, including documentary filmmaker Aliya Ashim, artist Murat Muturganov, dancer Randy, and UFC fighter Shavkat Rakhmonov, participated, sharing their insights and experiences with the young leaders.

Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, expressed pride in the achievements, stating:
> "From 2021 to 2025, Jas Leader has empowered thousands of students with practical skills in leadership, communication, and teamwork. We are proud to hand over the program to trusted local institutions so that even more children across the country can benefit from this transformative experience."

Future Expansion

With the successful completion of the pilot phase, the Jas Leader Akademiiasy program is now set to expand further under the management of certified local organizations. This strategic move aims to reach even more young individuals, equipping them with the tools necessary to thrive as future leaders of Kazakhstan.

In conclusion, as the country approaches a pivotal point in its strategic handover, the development of well-rounded, engaged youth ready to lead will be essential. The Jas Leader program serves as a shining example of how focused efforts in education and community development can shape a brighter future for Kazakhstan.