#Kazakhstan #Astana #Autism Support #Bulat Utemuratov

Bulat Utemuratov Foundation's Autism Program Recognized

The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, known for its significant contributions to social initiatives in Kazakhstan, has made headlines once again. Its flagship program, ‘Autism: One World for All,’ was awarded the prestigious Healthcare Award at the recent American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Awards in Kazakhstan, showcasing the foundation's commitment to improving autism care and support.

The award ceremony took place on November 21, 2025, in Astana, where an independent committee selected the winners based on their transformative impact on healthcare. This recognition emphasizes the Foundation's efforts in early diagnosis, specialist training, and the promotion of inclusive practices for children struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

A Program that Makes a Difference

Launched in 2015, the foundation's autism program has expanded impressively, operating 13 Asyl Miras autism centers across 12 cities in Kazakhstan. It provides free services that leverage the expertise of a multidisciplinary team, including psychologists, speech therapists, and behavioral analysts. They employ internationally recognized methods like ABA therapy, JASPER, the Early Childhood Intervention Model, and MCRR crisis management.

Over the past decade, the program has supported over 17,000 children and their families while training more than 300 specialists to implement world-class interventions. This initiative not only addresses immediate support needs but also works towards building a more inclusive society.

Beyond Direct Assistance

The impact of the autism program extends beyond therapy. The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation places significant emphasis on raising public awareness about autism and fostering a culture of acceptance within Kazakhstan. As part of this initiative, the Autism Friendly project has trained staff in key public sectors, such as airports and airlines, including Air Astana, to create more accessible environments for individuals with ASD.

Almaz Sharman, the Foundation's Chairman, emphasized the significance of this accolade, stating, “This award demonstrates that inclusion is becoming increasingly relevant to society. Our goal from the start has been to assist children with ASD in realizing their potential within a supportive world. We have witnessed substantial changes, with thousands of families finding support and society becoming more open and understanding.”

Continual Recognition

This achievement marks the second consecutive year that the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has garnered recognition from AmCham. In 2024, it received the award in the Community Service category for its extensive philanthropic efforts and invaluable contributions to Kazakhstan's social development.

The American Chamber of Commerce in Kazakhstan advocates for pivotal international and domestic companies, ensuring a transparency-encouraging and investment-friendly business environment through collaboration with the government. This partnership has fostered initiatives that support vulnerable populations, ensuring that organizations like the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation can thrive in their quest to elevate the standard of living for all citizens.

Looking Ahead

With a strong foundation in place and ongoing support, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation is poised to further its mission of inclusivity for children with autism in Kazakhstan and beyond. Winning the AmCham Healthcare Award not only validates the foundation's efforts but also empowers it to continue challenging stigma and removing barriers for those affected by autism. The journey does not end with awards; it’s about creating a legacy of acceptance, support, and transformative change in society.

In conclusion, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation serves as a beacon of hope and a model for similar initiatives worldwide, demonstrating that with commitment and the right resources, positive change can happen in the lives of those with autism and their families.