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

New Employment Pathways for Young People with Autism in Kazakhstan

In a significant step towards inclusivity, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, along with the RAOUL Charity Foundation, have unveiled an innovative employment initiative focused on assisting young individuals with autism in Kazakhstan. This program is designed to create a structured pathway into the workforce, addressing the unique challenges faced by autistic youth as they transition into adulthood.

A Game-Changer for Young Autistic Individuals

Autism can present various barriers when it comes to finding and securing employment. The new program by the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and RAOUL Charity Foundation aims to break down these barriers by establishing a robust model that facilitates employment opportunities for young people on the autism spectrum. This initiative is geared towards not only enhancing their access to meaningful job roles but also develops the expertise required to support their professional journey.

Ainur Karbozova, CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, expressed the importance of this program, stating, "For us, this program represents an important next step in strengthening opportunities for young people with autism in Kazakhstan. As they transition into adulthood, employment becomes one of the most significant challenges. Our objective is to develop a sustainable model that enables them to realize their potential while supporting employers in building inclusive workplaces."

International Expertise at Work

RAOUL Charity Foundation, known for its global expertise in supported employment practices, has partnered with the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation to train job coaches, develop methodologies, and establish quality assurance frameworks for the program. Mikhail Krivonos, an international partner at RAOUL, noted, "This partnership is about turning long-term support into long-term opportunity. We believe in people's abilities and potential. Together, we want sustainable employment to become a realistic and achievable stage in the lives of young people with autism in Kazakhstan."

The initiative will focus on sectors such as telecommunications, retail, logistics, and services, engaging both young individuals with autism and potential employers. Participants will undergo individual assessments, receive tailored training, and benefit from professional profiling that aligns with real vacancies, culminating in supported entry into the job market.

Expanding a Legacy of Support

Since its inception in 2015, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has been at the forefront of supporting children with autism and their families. Operating 13 Asyl Miras centers throughout 12 cities in Kazakhstan, the foundation has positively impacted over 20,000 children in the past decade. This new employment program signifies an extension of its commitment, focusing now on the adult phase of life and promoting lasting social and professional inclusion.

As the program evolves, partners look forward to sharing their findings and experiences, paving the way for replication across other regions in Kazakhstan. This collaborative effort not only aims to facilitate employment for young individuals with autism but also seeks to foster a culture of acceptance and understanding within the workplace.

Conclusion

The partnership between the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and RAOUL Charity Foundation marks a pivotal point in the movement towards inclusivity in Kazakhstan. By addressing the employment needs of young people with autism, this initiative opens doors to a future where every individual, irrespective of their challenges, can aspire to contribute meaningfully to society. This mission reaffirms the belief that with the right support, young people with autism can achieve their professional goals and thrive in the workforce.