On September 6, 2025, Astana hosted the World Forum of Kazakh Women “Myqty Aielder”, which brought together representatives of the Kazakh diaspora from 12 countries, as well as international experts. Participants shared their personal stories, discussed the challenges of preserving national identity abroad, and reflected on the role of women in modern leadership.

We spoke with several inspiring speakers of the forum.

“A woman should always be in search”

Umit Daulenova, forum organizer, chair of the Association of kazakh women “Moldir umit” in Spain, and founder of the project The kazakh village abroad.

– The forum has gathered Kazakh women from across the globe. Do you envision it becoming a tradition?

– This year, participants came from 12 countries. We do not consider this forum a one-off event — on the contrary, our goal is to make it an annual tradition. It is the first platform in Kazakhstan of such scale, bringing together Kazakh women worldwide and creating space for dialogue and exchange of experience.

– How do national values align with modern leadership?

– The forum itself is a clear demonstration. We see Kazakh women abroad delivering presentations in their native language, sharing ideas, initiatives, and achievements. This makes us proud. National culture and language can coexist harmoniously with modern leadership.

– What would you advise women?

– A woman should remain feminine, while respecting her inner strength. She must keep dreaming, set goals, and pursue them. A woman should always be in search — only then can she truly be strong.

“The main task was to preserve language and culture”

Akmаral Amirkulova – Kazakh language teacher and forum speaker. She has lived in Belgium since 1998 and founded the cultural association “Shanyraq” in 2009, which she continues to lead.

– Ms. Amirkulova, how do you manage to preserve national values and Kazakh culture while living abroad?

– When we established Shanyraq, our primary goal was to preserve the language and culture. We regularly hold cultural events and organize classes for children. By profession, I am a teacher of Kazakh language and literature, so I conduct lessons not only for Kazakh children but also for representatives of other nationalities living in Belgium.

– How do you assess the significance of such forums?

– They are extremely important. Such meetings bring together not only women but the entire Kazakh world. We maintain constant contact with colleagues in Europe, communicate, and share experiences. We have a common group chat where we discuss relevant issues. The forum helps expand this circle of communication, strengthen ties, and adopt new practices. I sincerely welcome such initiatives.

– In your opinion, what role does a woman play in preserving national identity?

– A woman is the pillar of the family. She bears the main responsibility for preserving language and traditions. If a mother manages to instill in her children the native language and national values, then the future of the entire people will be safeguarded.

“We must maintain constant communication”

Kamshat Demeuova – specialist in finance, economics, and logistics in The Hague, the Netherlands, and forum speaker.

– Ms. Demeuova, what impression has the forum left on you?

– It is a great honor for me to attend this forum. I came at the invitation of the “Moldir umit” foundation and its chair, Umit Daulenova. I would also like to express my deep gratitude to scholar and cultural figure Ms. Gulnar. Such events help form a positive image of Kazakh women, contribute to their recognition in society, and serve as a model for the younger generation.

– What challenges do you face while living abroad and trying to preserve national traditions?

– Challenges certainly exist. Being far from home, one feels the risk of assimilation, especially for children. In my family, we consciously speak only Kazakh, although we know several other languages. In addition, I actively participate in diaspora cultural projects and in events organized jointly with the embassy. This is my contribution to preserving the language and traditions for future generations.

– In your view, how can ties among Kazakh women worldwide be strengthened?

– We must maintain constant communication. Today, there are many opportunities — social networks, online platforms, joint events. We should congratulate each other on holidays, meet at cultural gatherings, and exchange experiences. This helps preserve unity and provides strength.

– Your advice for women?

– The most important thing is not to lose hope. Do not stop at dreams — turn them into concrete actions. Do not be afraid to take risks and to learn new things. One should not rely on random coaches or bloggers — it is better to invest in real education. If a woman continues to grow and develop, she will always find her rightful place in life.

“A woman has her place in society as well”

Zauresh Khaysa – Executive Director of the Association of Kazakh Women “Arular” in Mongolia, and forum speaker.

– Ms. Khaysa, could you tell us about your activities?

– We operate as a non-governmental organization. Our main areas include the protection of women’s rights, promotion of gender equality, and participation in educational programs and projects. We also address children’s rights and conduct motivational and educational activities.

– What challenges have you faced?

– When we began our work in 2020, we immediately encountered traditional stereotypes: the idea that a woman should only be responsible for household duties and raising children. But we emphasize that this does not negate respect for traditions. A Kazakh woman has always been the keeper of the home, respected her husband, and cared for the family. At the same time, it is important for her to find her place in society as well. We strive to combine traditional values with modern tasks.

– What is the significance of such forums for you?

– They provide an opportunity to hear the stories of women from different countries and to exchange practical experience and knowledge. For us, this is valuable. Everything we learn here, we will pass on to Kazakh women in Mongolia so they too can feel part of the wider community.

– Thank you for the interview!