th 9 CLASS

14 KIMEP UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

14 AUCA STUDENTS THE FOUNDATION IS GRATEFUL FOR SUPPORT FROM THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, ITS CITIZENS AND THE CENTRAL ASIAN-AMERICAN ENTERPRISE FUND, WHICH HAVE MADE ITS OPERATION POSSIBLE.

CONTENTS

02 04 06 Foundation Overview Celebrating the AUCA • HISTORY Accomplishments Graduates • MISSION of Student Fellows • PROGRAMS • PARTNER UNIVERSITIES • PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR Graduating Seniors, KIMEP University

2 2 40 4 1 KIMEP The Foundation’s Alumni University Intern Fellowships Association

Graduates • REGIONAL SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM • INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Mustafa Ziyatbekov

IV U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2018 Nigora, Aleksandr , Nilufar and Rustem (left to right)

GRADUATION BOOK 2019

th The 2019 U.S.-CAEF graduates represent the ninth class of Student Fellows to 9 receive a university education through the U.S.-Central Asia Education Foundation CLASS OF STUDENT (the Foundation) Enterprise Fellowship Program. A total of 28 Fellows, 14 from each FELLOWS partner university, American University of Central Asia (AUCA) and KIMEP University, will celebrate their graduation on May 18 in Almaty, Kazakhstan and June 1 in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz Republic, respectively.

U.S.-CAEF Student Fellows are academically gifted citizen residents of one of the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan who, without financial aid, would not otherwise be able to pursue a university education at one of the Foundation’s partner universities. They have been awarded full undergraduate scholarships for study in the fields of business and, in some cases, economics. Student Fellows must meet the rigorous admission standards of their university and are selected by the Foundation’s Board at the end of a selection process developed by both the Board and American Councils for International Education (American Councils), which administers the Foundation’s fellowship programs. Each student selected for the program commits to meeting the ongoing requirements of the scholarship, including maintaining a 3.0 grade-point average for AUCA Student Fellows and a 3.25 grade-point average for KIMEP University Student Fellows and participating in the educational, vocational and social events of the Student Fellowship Program.

Graduation 2019 is the result of years of hard work by each Fellow and represents a major milestone in the lives of the graduating Student Fellows and their families. We recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of these future Central Asian leaders and members of the U.S.-CAEF family.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 1 FOUNDATION OVERVIEW

HISTORY MISSION NOTES

The Foundation, a congressionally approved “legacy foundation” to the The Foundation’s mission is During its active operating former U.S. Government-sponsored Central Asian-American Enterprise to encourage and assist the years, CAAEF entered into Fund (Fund or CAAEF), is funded by a $15.7 million grant from CAAEF development and growth of a 27 joint ventures with equity (or equity plus debt) financing and commenced operation in May 2007. CAAEF was one of the “U.S. vibrant open-market private totaling $61.5 million, granted Enterprise Funds” authorized and funded by the U.S. Government after business sector in Central Asia 352 loans to establish or expand the dissolution of the former Soviet Union. It was incorporated in 1994 by: supporting the quality of and small and medium-size enterp- as a not-for-profit corporation to encourage the creation and expansion affordable access to Western rises (“SMEs”), and funded more of small- and medium-sized enterprises in the Central Asian Republics business expertise and practices than 3,000 micro-credit loans of the former Soviet Union (Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, at selected institutions of higher totaling $10.4 million. Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) and operated in Central Asia for ten years education in the region that have The Fund’s direct investments, until 2004. Like all Enterprise Funds, CAAEF was managed by a private adopted Western curricula and SME and micro-loan programs board of directors and was required to liquidate its investments by a teaching methods; providing & technical assistance activities specified “sunset” date and either return the proceeds to the U.S. Treasury opportunities for educational, were directly responsible for: or develop a “legacy proposal” for an alternative use of these proceeds, vocational, and cultural * creating a diverse array of private consistent with the Fund’s mission. experience in countries that business enterprises that continue serve as positive examples of an to operate successfully and provide During its operation, CAAEF had provided extensive training and education open market economy operating several thousand private sector to the young Central Asian men and women who comprised its staff and employment opportunities; within a democratic environment; worked in its lending and investing programs. The staff informed the CAAEF and promoting other activities * developing the western business Board that this business education had proven invaluable. In conducting practice skills of its local staff, joint research for its legacy proposal, the CAAEF Board found that there was that will generate a favorable venture partners and managers, environment in Central Asia for small business loan customers, strong demand among private sector businesses in Central Asia for and employees of the local partner employees with a Western business education. Few opportunities existed, private business to succeed and banks that participated in the however, for academically qualified yet financially disadvantaged students entrepreneurial spirit to thrive. Fund’s SME loan program; and, to obtain an undergraduate business degree in Central Asia. The CAAEF *achieving a positive demonstration Board determined that the cornerstone of its legacy proposal would be a effect, by providing the close financial need- and merit-based undergraduate scholarship at universities support and experience that now finds several of the Fund’s SME loan committed to the adoption of a Western-style curriculum. Recipients program Partner Banks offering would pursue business-related fields and would be citizens of one of the small business term-loans directly to their customers, and other five countries in which CAAEF operated. banks adopting similar lending activities that mirror the policies In addition, the Board would include two complementary programs: a and procedures of CAAEF’s highly faculty development program and an internship program. After more than successful small business loan program. three years of efforts by its Board, the Fund received the necessary U.S. governmental approvals in May 2007, created the Foundation and launched the Enterprise Student Fellowship Program.

PARTNER UNIVERSITIES

Our partner universities, AUCA and KIMEP University, were selected based on various criteria including their use of English, the international language of business, as the primary language for instruction; their adoption of a Western-style curriculum and teaching methodology; and a willingness to support the goals of the Foundation and its Student AUCA KIMEP University Fellows. The Foundation is most grateful for AUCA and KIMEP University’s dedication to providing their students with the technical skills, knowledge, KIMEP University further supports the U.S.-CAEF mission by providing and habits of critical thinking required for success in the business world, partial, matching scholarship support to many U.S.-CAEF Enterprise where our students will spend their professional lives, and their continued Fellows. We are most appreciative of KIMEP’s recognition of the value of commitment to the highest quality education. the U.S.-CAEF program and its generous support for U.S.-CAEF Fellows.

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR: AMERICAN COUNCILS FOR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION American Councils for International Education is a premier, international nonprofit creating educational opportunities that prepare individuals and institutions to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world. Through academic exchanges, overseas language immersion, data-driven research, and educational development programs, American Councils designs and administers innovative programs and language assessments that broaden individual perspectives, increase knowledge, and deepen understanding. Since 1974, American Councils has worked in 89 countries important to national security, prosperity, and peace, and built a community of more than 89,000 alumni, including national leaders, ministers, members of parliament, ambassadors, and CEOs.

2 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 FOUNDATION OVERVIEW

THE FOUNDATION EXECUTES ITS MISSION THROUGH TWO PROGRAMS

ENTERPRISE STUDENT FELLOWSHIPS ENTERPRISE INTERN FELLOWSHIPS

A financial need-based undergraduate business education scholarship A program for select Enterprise Student Fellows to gain practical work program for academically gifted students who, due to financial experience within Central Asia, as well as educational, vocational and hardship, would not otherwise be able to pursue a university education. cultural experience in the United States or other countries that serve Scholarships are provided at selected Central Asian universities to as positive examples of democratic open-market economies. citizen residents of the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

57 66 63 64 62 55 56 52 44 50

34 67 21 62 57 57 59 59 57 54 52 49 51 43

ENTERPRISE STUDENT FELLOWSHIPS STUDENT FELLOWS BY CITIZENSHIP IN 2007-2019

For the recent 2018-2019 academic year, the Foundation awarded a total of 106 scholarships 167 for 54 Student Fellows to attend AUCA and 52 to attend KIMEP University.

While the Foundation is committed to achieving 70 geographic and regional diversity, its efforts have 59 been challenged at different times by the inability 33 11 to conduct active outreach in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Despite these challenges, it is notable that among the Student Fellows are citizens from Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan as well as from 106 SCHOLARSHIPS Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Tajikistan. 54 AUCA 52 KIMEP University It is the intent of the Foundation to actively and continuously recruit in all these countries.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 3 AUCA class of 2019

GRADUATION 2019 Celebrating the Accomplishments of our Student Fellows

Throughout their four years of study, this year’s graduating Student Fellows have shown themselves to be true leaders and role models at their respective universities, and we are proud that they are part of the U.S.-CAEF family. They have continued the traditions initiated by earlier Enterprise Student Fellows. Their success is a credit to their parents, their families, their professors, their universities and their U.S.-CAEF family. They have mentored incoming Fellows, helped create and strengthen the U.S.-CAEF Student Association, taken campus-wide roles in student government and university clubs, managed entrepreneurial businesses, won opportunities to study overseas, and volunteered their time and skills to their communities. Most of our Student Fellows are fluent in at least three languages: the language of their home Central Asian country, English and Russian. Many have gained proficiency in additional languages.

4 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 GRADUATION 2018

At AUCA, fourth-year students with a cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher are placed on the “President’s List.” Students in their second, third, or fourth years of study with a GPA of 3.67 or higher are placed on the “Dean’s List.”

At KIMEP University, full time students with a semester GPA of 4.0 or higher are placed on the “President’s List,” while those with a semester GPA of 3.75 to 3.99 are placed on the “Dean’s List.”

The academic performance of this year’s graduating class has been exemplary. Of 28 Student Fellows, 17 have been recognized on the President’s or Dean’s Lists. Nurbakhsh Sartib (left) and Nekdil Abdulofizov (right)

Currently, eight Student Fellows are on track to graduate with honors: GRADUATING SENIORS RECOGNIZED ON THE PRESIDENT’S & DEAN’S LISTS

Daniiar Abdiev Nekdil Abdulofizov Bekzhan Akbayev

Aigerim Akimzhan DANIIAR AZATBEK MEERIM AIGERIM ABDIEV ALIBAEV MOLDALIEVA AKIMZHAN Azatbek Alibaev AUCA AUCA AUCA KIMEP University Nigora Burhonova Haknazar Hallygylyjov Aizhan Kerimbek kyzy Aleksandr Kinyakin Ahror Ikromov Kasiet Mambetkul kyzy NIGORA ALEKSANDR NILUFAR RUSTEM BURHONOVA KINYAKIN UMAROVA YESNAZAROV Meerim Moldalieva KIMEP University KIMEP University KIMEP University KIMEP University Alisher Murtazaev Bakhtiyor Otambekov Our seniors have also taken advantage of highly competitive, enriching study abroad programs in Austria, France, Norway, Poland, South Korea, Nurbakhsh Sartib Turkey and the USA. Nilufar Umarova Rustem Yesnazarov In the pages that follow, we offer profiles of these outstanding young Mustafa Ziyatbekov men and women, written by the graduating fellows themselves.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 5 6 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 AUCA GRADUATE PROFILES

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 7 Daniiar While I have always had plans for my complete a regional internship at an Abdiev future, they often remind me of stock investment company as a website prices: volatile and subject to rapid developer, and now at Beeline’s change. I find that one day I want to Big Data department. U.S.–CAEF pursue one specialty, and another has always been supportive of day I want to explore a different my passion for computers, and one. Nevertheless, the general now, more specifically, Artificial direction has always been clear to Intelligence. I was lucky to study me: I want to work with computers business while simultaneously in an environment that encourages pursuing my passion for computers. creativity. Thankfully, the first part of my vision has already been fulfilled, I am concurrently finishing my while I look forward to realizing the studies at AUCA and developing my second part soon. U.S.–CAEF has professional skills at my position certainly played an integral role in with Beeline. Graduation is certainly strengthening the vision and making a bit sad for me, not only because it possible for me to think that it means my studies will end, but I really do have the potential also because I will miss all the great to fulfill my aspirations. professors, fun student life, and the amazing, inspiring people I have met When I was admitted to AUCA here, with whom I look forward to and granted the privilege to continued friendship beyond AUCA. study business, I understood MAJOR: that U.S.–CAEF had given me the While it is difficult to say anything BUSINESS opportunity to do something more certain about my future plans ADMINISTRATION with my life. I have considered the because, like stock prices, they business education sphere as one will always change, I still have the AWARDS: of the best options to pursue my same general vision as before. I PRESIDENT’S LIST professional goals. I enjoy working will continue pursuing my goals to FALL 2018 with computers and coding very create a business driven by Artificial much, so software engineering Intelligence. I am very thankful to DEAN’S LIST also seemed like a worthy path to U.S.–CAEF for allowing me to follow FALL 2017 pursue. This scholarship provided my vision. U.S.–CAEF gave me the the opportunity to engage in a opportunity to study at a great DANIIAR variety of computer-related courses, university, meet awesome people, HAS BEEN SELECTED gain practical experience at the and pursue my personal vision. TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL U.S. Embassy’s IT department, Thank you, U.S.-CAEF. INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2019

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC “I was lucky to study business while simultaneously pursuing BISHKEK my passion for computers”

8 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “… I believe a life where you are not able Azatbek to leave a footprint is not worth living.” Alibaev

Since a young age, I have known went by quickly. Looking back, it that education is a very important feels as though it was a flash of part of life in my family. My mom light. Education at AUCA is quite always used to say, “An educated different from other universities person can make money without here; it promotes diligence and much physical effort; such a person motivates students to advance their will always be in demand, and it knowledge in unique ways. Students is up to you to decide which field can choose their own track for their to pursue.” Moreover, knowing an future, everything is solely based additional foreign language was on their interests, and they are something that I knew I needed. the true architects of their future. My two sisters and I chose the AUCA gave us not only theoretical English language, as it would knowledge, but practical knowledge be helpful for our future. by providing opportunities for internships. One such opportunity In order to further improve my for me was an internship at PEPSICO English, I felt it would be beneficial Bishkek. This experience helped to attend a school where English was me to gain invaluable experience the main language of instruction. in the fields of human resource This was a great decision, and it management and finance. I saw allowed me to view the world of how recruitment processes are done education from a new perspective. from inside and how such a huge It meant education could be engaging company is financially managed and interesting for me. One of the from inside. To be honest, I cannot classes that influenced my future even imagine studying at any MAJOR: career path was Business Studies, other university. BUSINESS which helped me to identify who ADMINISTRATION I was and what I wanted for my life. My future plans can be divided AWARDS: into two parts: near future and PRESIDENT’S LIST In my final year of high school, life mission. For the next couple FALL 2018 I already knew the field I wanted to years, I am planning to spend some pursue for my future studies, but time working for the private sector DEAN’S LIST choosing a university was difficult and fully devote myself to gaining FALL 2017 since the ones I was most interested experience. Then, after completing in were very expensive. I was even a master’s program, I am planning almost ready to give up my dream of to work for the government to help KYRGYZ REPUBLIC studying at AUCA. But luckily, after spark meaningful changes. It is meeting with AUCA representatives, quite important to me to help the OSH I learned about the amazing society in which I live, as I believe opportunity that is U.S.-CAEF. a life where you are not able to leave My four years of education at the a footprint is not worth living. American University of Central Asia

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 9 Gulzira If someone told me five years ago I found a sense of community while Ashirali that I would become a U.S.–CAEF participating in extracurricular Fellow, I would probably laugh activities at AUCA, such as Kyzy in disbelief. volunteering at the Senior Friends charity club, Enactus, Mirrors, and I graduated from a high school in the volleyball club. I was fortunate Batken with a strong mathematics to serve on the Youth Social and physics background which Entrepreneurship Program’s (YSEP) meant that my English skills were leadership team as the public as strong. At that time, studying at relations manager in 2015, and the AUCA seemed like an unattainable financial accounting manager in 2016. goal for me. But after I won a scholarship to the New Generation One of my most enjoyable Academy, a preparatory program experiences was my participation at AUCA, I learned about the unique in the Work and Travel USA program U.S.–CAEF Fellowship Program. during the summer of 2018, when I knew this program would help I had a chance to work in the finance me achieve my seemingly department at the Sunset Hotel unreachable goals. in New York.

In 2015, my dream came true, U.S.–CAEF gave me the lucky and I became a U.S.–CAEF Fellow ticket to study for four years at at AUCA. Now, I am a senior AUCA and helped me build a solid completing my studies in business foundation for my future. Without administration. Four years flew by this program, I would not have been so fast, but this time was enough part of the U.S.–CAEF family and to enjoy AUCA’s student life and would not have been privileged to have some great experiences. have such unforgettable experiences at AUCA. I am immensely grateful During my studies at AUCA, to this program and to my parents I completed a public relations for their support, motivation and marketing internship at Asanbay and faith in me. Center, an art gallery and restaurant. MAJOR: I participated in my second BUSINESS internship at Bishkek Services ADMINISTRATION in the finance department.

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

BATKEN “U.S.–CAEF gave me the lucky ticket to study for four years at AUCA and helped me build a solid foundation for my future.”

10 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 Begimai Bolotbekova Since childhood, I always had the “This program goal in mind of studying business at an international institution where gave me lifelong everybody speaks English. I am very happy that those thoughts friends, a platform materialized, and I am very grateful to develop myself to the U.S.-CAEF program for its huge contribution. academically and

Today, I am on track to receive my professionally, bachelor’s degree. During my time at AUCA, I not only improved my and a network language skills, but also realized of people who myself as an individual with great ambitions. Over these four years, try to make I have gained a wealth of experience from extracurricular activities, the world useful theoretical knowledge, a better place.” and professional skills through internships.

During my sophomore year, I improved my professional skills conducting qualitative surveys by participating in workshops on and making comprehensive writing resumes and cover letters, analyses, prepared me for my interviewing and career planning senior year. In addition, I realized and development. On top of that, while taking a Practicum in Data U.S.-CAEF has greatly helped me in Analysis course that I am well-suited boosting my career skills. I interned for the field of Data Analytics. Later, in the Procurement and Contracts that course helped me in choosing Department of LLC Sky Mobile my concentration track, MAJOR: (™ Beeline) through the U.S.-CAEF Business Analytics. BUSINESS Regional Internship Program. ADMINISTRATION It provided me with a valuable I am really proud and honored to network and a clear vision of be a U.S.-CAEF Fellow. This program my future career. gave me lifelong friends, a platform KYRGYZ REPUBLIC to develop myself academically and

My third year was full of new professionally, and a network of JALAL-ABAD opportunities with the Business people who try to make the world Clinic at AUCA and an exchange a better place. program at Kyung Hee University in South Korea. Skills I learned, such as

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 11 When I was about to graduate The program allowed me to pursue Akhrorhon from my Turkish High School my dreams and goals in the fields Ikromov in Tajikistan, I was looking for of my professional interests. As scholarships that would fully fund an example, with the help of the my higher education and reduce U.S.-CAEF coordinator in Dushanbe, the financial burden on my family. I was granted the opportunity to One day, when I was filling out the complete an internship at Crowe- U.S.-CAEF application, I came ACG, Dushanbe, one of the leading across the word “fellowship.” audit firms in Dushanbe. There, When I realized that this was I learned about outsourcing, audit a synonym for “scholarship,” and consulting services. It was I realized that U.S.-CAEF was a great environment for learning what I had been looking for. new skills.

During my first year of study, During my four years of study at AUCA, I decided to fully focus on being a U.S.-CAEF Fellow helped my academic performance. me to be selected for conferences, Consequently, I completed my civic engagement projects and freshman year successfully and top finance enterprises. U.S.-CAEF was rewarded with a spot on the helped me to stand out among Dean’s List. I was glad to be among impressive candidates for these excellent students, especially since highly competitive opportunities and many of those excellent students helped me to be selected. One such were also U.S.-CAEF Fellows. opportunity was being selected as a delegate for the Model United Nations After the completion of my conferences held in Bishkek and sophomore year, I was selected Astana. Moreover, my involvement in as one of the Regional Internship these events led me to being selected Fellows. Thanks to the Regional as a co-chair of the Model United Internship opportunity, I was able Nations at International University to acquire firsthand professional of Central Asia. experience in the accounting and finance department of Hyatt Most importantly, I found a family MAJOR: Regency Bishkek. It was a great with U.S.-CAEF, of which I am very ECONOMICS learning experience- I met new proud to be a member. With a colleagues, learned about new whole heart, I express my sincerest AWARDS: perspectives and faced gratitude and wish all the Fellows DEAN’S LIST new challenges. the best of luck. FALL 2016

TAJIKISTAN “U.S.-CAEF helped me to stand out among QURGANTEPPA impressive candidates for these highly competitive opportunities and helped me to be selected.”

12 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “Thanks to U.S.–CAEF, I was able to identify Kemelbek my strengths and define my career path… Irsaliev Interacting with the ambitious people around me has changed my mindset and taught me to look at problems from different perspectives.”

The past four years with the I discovered the world of computer U.S.–CAEF community have programming and the IT industry been the brightest of my life. during my sophomore year and realized that I enjoyed it very much. There are thousands of high school I took part in several hackathons, students dreaming about studying burning the midnight oil to solve the at the American University of Central problems at hand. The teamwork Asia; however, not all of them have and enthusiasm in the eyes of my the opportunity to study there due colleagues only motivated me to to the high costs. It is more difficult work hard and think outside the box for these students to reach their to achieve success in our projects. full potential, because they are Because of this, I now know the path unable to reap the benefits of AUCA’s I want to pursue after graduation. supportive environment, which Difficult assignments have taught cultivates students’ individuality, me to remain patient and persistent creativity and critical thinking. in problem solving, which will certainly help me in establishing Not only did the U.S.–CAEF a career in the IT sphere. Fellowship allow me to study at this university, but it also One of the greatest assets I have provided dozens of useful trainings been privileged to acquire during and seminars for professional these four years is the network MAJOR: ECONOMICS development. U.S.–CAEF has of interesting people, a couple included me in its wonderful of whom eventually became community of highly motivated close friends. Interacting with the and skilled people who are ambitious people around me has KYRGYZ REPUBLIC hungry for knowledge. Thanks changed my mindset and taught me to U.S.–CAEF, I was able to identify to look at problems from different BISHKEK my strengths and define my career perspectives. Looking back at my path. Volunteering at AUCA events years at AUCA, I remember only taught me how to cooperate the brightest and greatest moments. in team settings and achieve For them, I express my sincerest our collective goals. Moreover, gratitude to the U.S.–CAEF Fellowship. I hosted several events myself, which helped me overcome my fear of public speaking.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 13 I have always maintained and Having theoretical knowledge Aizhan will always maintain a thirst for without applied practice is similar to knowledge, curiosity, and reasoning. seeing food on a table and not being Kerimbek Thus, I am infinitely grateful to have able to taste it; therefore, I used Kyzy studied in an environment that not every opportunity to implement only helped me find answers to my theories I had learned in practice. questions, but more importantly, In order to identify a favorite meal, constantly inspired me to come up one tries lots of them. Similarly, in with new questions. My own family order to identify my concentration, and my U.S.-CAEF family granted I interned and worked in various me this opportunity and made it fields such as public relations, possible to be where I am today. human resources, organizational development, marketing, supply American University of Central Asia chain management, general (AUCA) is recognized for its quality management, and education. education, diverse environment, Currently, I am working as an and open atmosphere, and I am instructor of the Introduction to grateful that U.S.-CAEF allowed me Economics and Counselling courses the privilege to study here. During at Bilimkana-AUCA high school. my studies at AUCA, I did my best to make the most out of all the When I was applying to the opportunities presented to me. U.S.-CAEF Program, I said, “I will First, I maintained good academic definitely give all the knowledge standing and benefited from the and experience I receive back to quality classroom instruction that society.” I still repeat this statement AUCA provides. Second, I obtained when I apply to programs and new life views thanks to the diversity conferences. I do try to give of the campus community. Third, back to society by implementing I got rid of many stereotypes various social, educational, or and became more open to new entrepreneurship projects. Even innovations. Additionally, I used the though my impact is a drop in the opportunity to study abroad after I ocean for now, I believe that these MAJOR: was selected for the fall 2017 IESEG drops will become new positive BUSINESS School of Management Exchange waves in the future. I hope one day ADMINISTRATION Program in Lille, France. Finally, I was I will be one of the people leading AWARDS: awarded a grant to conduct research an organization, thanks to the DEAN’S LIST in the education and migration U.S.-CAEF Program, which supports FALL 2016 sphere that developed my research students in forming positive waves skills and allowed me to make my in their communities. own footprint in policy-making.

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC “Even though my impact is a drop in the ocean JALAL-ABAD for now, I believe that these drops will become new positive waves in the future. I hope one day I will be one of the people leading an organization.”

14 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “The U.S.–CAEF Program appeared as a new key that opened new doors to many different opportunities…” Kasiet

As Benjamin Franklin once said, internships in different fields to find Mambetkul “An investment in knowledge pays the right fit for my skills and interests. Kyzy the best interest.” I am thankful to I completed my first internship in the my family for their guidance during accounting department of the young my childhood, and their deeply and developing company, Digital established belief that knowledge Technologies. This experience led is the key that opens doors to new to another job opportunity. As part opportunities. They have always of the Regional Internship Program, believed in me, and have helped I completed my second internship me grow into a successful, with the German Development goal-oriented individual. Cooperation (GIZ), in a project entitled “Strengthening of Livelihoods The first investment I made into through Climate Change Adaptation myself was learning foreign languages. in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.” My Indeed, I saw an immediate return third internship took place at the on my investment: first, as an Ministry of Transport and Roads of the exchange student in Japan, and Kyrgyz Republic, in the department later, as a participant of the Future of External Relations and Integration. Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program in Finally, I had the privilege to work with the United States. As a graduate of AUCA’s Institute of Education (IOE) an American high school, I became as a program assistant, where I was a more determined and inspired responsible for helping with planning, person, and even more enthusiastic analysis, and administration of the MA about investing in my knowledge. This in Teaching program. led me to the U.S.–CAEF Fellowship. The U.S.–CAEF Program opened In addition to professional new doors to many different development, AUCA and the opportunities and provided the U.S.–CAEF Fellowship provided MAJOR: opportunity to study at AUCA. many opportunities to develop BUSINESS personally. I recently became an ADMINISTRATION AUCA is the perfect place to grow as alumna of the ProKG Leadership a business leader. During my studies, Program, organized by the Club of AWARDS: I constantly tried to learn new things, Professionals of Kyrgyzstan. This DEAN’S LIST develop myself personally and experience brought me to a larger FALL 2017 professionally, and take advantage arena of leaders, where I learned of every opportunity provided to from their experience and widened me. One of these opportunities was my network. I also completed the an exchange program to study at USG Alumni Mentorship Program, in KYRGYZ REPUBLIC the IESEG School of Management which I formed an invaluable working in Paris, where I was selected to relationship with my mentor. These NARYN study during the fall 2017 semester. two programs helped me shape my To further develop my professional future career goals. I am very thankful skills and decide on my academic for the key to new opportunities that concentration, I completed is the U.S.–CAEF Fellowship.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 15 Meerim Just as one single opportunity The U.S.–CAEF Regional Internship can open doors to ten others, the program offered a gateway to Moldalieva U.S.–CAEF Fellowship gave me the my future career. I interned in the opportunity to be where I am now. Marketing Department of Coca-Cola These four years at AUCA have Bishkek Bottlers. A second internship passed in a flash. They have been the experience offered the opportunity most enriching and challenging years to hone my skills in the business of my life, in which I took advantage development department at Dos of many valuable academic Credo Bank. Additionally, I worked opportunities, extracurricular with a project called Herb Café where activities, and internship programs. I learned about challenges that startups face and solved logistical Studying at AUCA, one of the problems. Finally, I completed leading universities of Central Asia, an internship at Textile Trans, the among many bright, motivated, and biggest manufacturer of knitted ambitious people, has pushed me fabric in Kyrgyzstan. It was this latter to be proactive and do my best in experience that strengthened my both academic and extracurricular passion for finance and led to my activities. I had the wonderful confirming finance as my academic opportunity to organize fundraising concentration. These internships events as one of the first members have been among the most valuable of the Youth Social Entrepreneurship experiences in my professional Program (YSEP) to implement social development so far. projects at schools and orphanages. I have had many life-changing Opportunities like my exchange experiences throughout these years MAJOR: semester at the SolBridge Business at AUCA thanks to U.S.–CAEF. Being BUSINESS School in South Korea and the an AUCA student means growing ADMINISTRATION Global Volunteer program in Turkey among highly motivated and were two of the most remarkable educated students. Being a AWARDS: experiences during my university life. U.S.–CAEF Fellow means being DEAN’S LIST I also received a BECA scholarship to a part of this family and opening FALL 2016 study at a cultural summer school in doors to the futures we have all Spain, participated in the European dreamed about. U.S.–CAEF

MEERIM Congress in Armenia, Model United continues to give numerous HAS BEEN SELECTED Nations in Kazakhstan, and became a opportunities and great support, TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL finalist at the Korean National Debate for which I am eternally grateful. INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Championship in South Korea. IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2019 “Being an AUCA student means growing among highly KYRGYZ REPUBLIC motivated and educated students. Being a U.S.-CAEF

OSH Fellow means being a part of this family and opening doors to the futures we have all dreamed about.”

16 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “Words cannot express my gratitude Bezhan to the U.S.-CAEF Program, which helped me Niyozbekov find my place in the world, and a network of like-minded people.”

Education is very important in my I started to look at things from family. During my high school years, completely different perspectives I switched schools six times in search and discovered several different of better educational opportunities. opportunities for myself, which I realized that in Tajikistan, my home I would have never founded country, many universities cannot out about if I had not been offer a quality education, so I started an AUCA student. to look at foreign universities. I chose AUCA, since my aunt graduated During my sophomore year, my from this university and she highly friends and I bought a course about recommended it. Because the selling products on Amazon. After English language was not widely taking the course, I became really taught at my school, I started interested in Amazon, and step by attending extra English classes to step, I started to explore Amazon prepare for my higher education. more which piqued my interest in e-commerce. After my third year, After graduating from high school, during my summer break, I had the I applied to New Generation opportunity to use the acquired Academy of AUCA to further improve knowledge while interning at Aliya, my English. My time spent at NGA a fur company based in Bishkek. At was very useful, since it helped me that time, the company was going to prepare for AUCA exams and adapt through rebranding and started to to Bishkek and student life at AUCA. create their new website. It was a Then, I was lucky and blessed to great experience to be part of this receive the U.S.-CAEF scholarship, experience as it provided me with along with the opportunity to study in many valuable insights that I can MAJOR: the Economics Department at AUCA. use in the future. ECONOMICS

My parents had warned me that In the future, I see myself as my university years would pass an entrepreneur in the field of TAJIKISTAN incredibly quickly. Looking back, e-commerce. Words cannot express I know that the years spent at my gratitude to the U.S.-CAEF DUSHANBE AUCA have changed me for the Program, which helped me find my better. I met a lot of interesting place in the world, and a network people and made lifelong friends. of like-minded people.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 17 My life is amazing. Since childhood, My university years were full of Elaman my favorite school subject has been enjoyable events, many of which English, and I have dreamed about involved extracurricular activities. Saralayev visiting America. Thus, throughout I was grateful to be elected to the my primary education and high AUCA Student Senate and volunteer school, I studied English and in Orientation Week activities. These American culture with great curiosity, non-academic activities helped which eventually led me to one of broaden my mind and taught the best universities in my region: the me how to work in a team while American University of Central Asia. making many new friends. The most Gaining admission to this university memorable event for me was my fulfilled one of my long-standing exchange semester in Poland, which dreams: studying in an was a wonderful atmosphere saturated “Thank you experience with American culture of learning a and having the for providing new culture opportunity to me with a bright and exploring practice English in European professional settings. future, a happy countries. It present, and an was a unique Acquiring higher opportunity education is so unforgettable past.” to acquire appealing because it knowledge within provides a strong foundation the European education system, for professional success. Even which taught me to be more open, more appealing is a program inquisitive, and cheerful. This trip like the U.S.–CAEF Fellowship, provided me with many treasured which is a wonderful gift that has memories and moments that I will MAJOR: helped me become confident in cherish for the rest of my life. BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION my future and strive for perpetual self-development. I would like to My life sometimes feels like a thank the U.S.–CAEF family for fairytale, in which all my dreams are ELAMAN being so welcoming. Everyone coming true. U.S.–CAEF has made HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE in this family is ready to help this all possible. Thanks to U.S.–CAEF, U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL each other. I have developed both mentally INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC and professionally. U.S.–CAEF gave IN FALL 2019 During all these years studying me the opportunity to study at a business administration, I was top university with truly amazing able to determine my interests people in my favorite culture and in KAZAKHSTAN and strengths. Thanks to these my favorite language. All the while, high-level, challenging business, I was surrounded by caring people, economics, and accounting courses, explored the world, and achieved AKTOBE I was able to secure a position in the a higher education from a top audit company, Kreston, and refine university. Thank you for providing my skills in the field of audit where me with a bright future, a happy I want to build my career. present, and an unforgettable past.

18 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 Akmaral Shermamatova “… all my achievements are directly linked to my participation in this program.”

During my studies in the English Cultura Nomada Foundation, where Access Microscholarship Program, I put my theoretical knowledge into I had the opportunity to learn practice. This internship helped me English extensively and engage in understand the difference between social projects. Later, this program theory and real business cases. helped me receive the opportunity to study at the New Generation After finishing my internship at Academy. This AUCA preparatory Cultura Nomada, I applied to program piqued my interest in Metropolitan Logistic Company, Business Administration and where I worked as Third-Party inspired me to apply to the Logistics (3PL). It is an outsourcing U.S.-CAEF Program. company, the headquarters of which are in New Jersey, USA. My job was U.S.-CAEF helped us not only to find line haul shippers that could financially, but also personally, by deliver products to remote areas. boosting our self-confidence. Over There, I was able to improve my the past four years, we have learned computer skills, and gain the ability great things with the help of this to work with foreign partners. Also, program. We had numerous training I improved my communication skills sessions and workshops on time by writing emails to companies management, strength-finding, and making deals with partners MAJOR: development of communication and clients. BUSINESS skills and others. Also, it was very ADMINISTRATION helpful to have additional math and I am very grateful to the English classes during our freshmen U.S.-CAEF Program because CONCENTRATION: year provided by U.S.-CAEF. It meant all my achievements are directly MARKETING a lot to all of us to feel such support. linked to my participation in this program. In addition, it helped me Moreover, I was able to develop my to find great friends. I am very KYRGYZ REPUBLIC professional knowledge. I interned in proud and happy to be part the digital marketing department of of this community. OSH

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 19 Bekzhan Tashbaev My grandma always told me that university, I plan to work in the field a quality education is the way of audit, and I want to earn my first to achieve success. I am forever capital for future start-ups. thankful to my grandfather, who signed me up for extra English During my junior year, I completed language classes, which became an internship at the State Anti- one of the most important steps Monopoly Regulation Agency of the in my academic journey. In 2013, Kyrgyz Republic through the FLEX I became a finalist of the FLEX to Internship Program. During the program. I spent one academic internship, I learned a lot about year in Southwest High School the work of state employees and in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. acquired inside knowledge about During the program, I grew the state structure of Kyrgyzstan. personally and set new goals. I also took an active part in university Then, in the beginning of 2015, life. I participated in Diversity Week I became a finalist of the U.S.-CAEF multiple times, and I was part of the program. The knowledge that AUCA team in the CFA Challenge. I would get to study at one of the I also organized several social best universities in Central Asia took projects and participated in projects my breath away. Four years passed organized by other activists. very quickly, and I can barely believe that it is time to graduate and enter The U.S.-CAEF Program taught me a new page in my life. At AUCA, I grew not only to set ambitious goals for intellectually and gained invaluable myself, but also to work hard to life experiences. I always wanted to achieve them, showing that anything become an entrepreneur, and AUCA I set my mind to is attainable. I would taught me skills that will help me like to express my gratitude to to conduct an ethical and modern the U.S.-CAEF Program, a truly business. After graduating from life-changing opportunity.

MAJOR: BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC “The U.S.-CAEF Program taught me not only KARAKOL to set ambitious goals for myself, but also to work hard to achieve them, showing that anything I set my mind to is attainable.”

20 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “Thanks to U.S.–CAEF, I have gained Meerimgul Toktosunova a large family, quality education, and invaluable confidence that I can reach my goals.”

The period of studying at AUCA’s Microeconomics, Macroeconomics New Generation Academy was and other challenging courses decisive in the sense that it helped organized by U.S.-CAEF helped me identify the path of my future us achieve academic success. career and life. It was during this Moreover, I am thankful to the period that I firmly decided how I program for enriching our social life will contribute to my country as an by organizing regular teambuilding entrepreneur. Consequently, I began events and trainings such as thinking about how I could achieve StrengthFinders and workshops on this goal to the best of my ability. developing communication skills. When I learned about the U.S.–CAEF These activities allowed us to learn Fellowship, I knew it was the first not only from the instructors but step towards reaching my goals. from each other as well and brought all Fellows closer. In addition, When applying to AUCA and I volunteered in several community the U.S.–CAEF Fellowship, I was projects. The most valuable excited to learn that I would have experience was volunteering for the opportunity to gain a quality AIESEC’s “Impact NGO’17” program education, grow as a student, as a in Turkey. Through participation in professional, and as a person. My this event, I enhanced my analytical confidence increased significantly skills and gained great public MAJOR: during my internship experience speaking skills. BUSINESS in the marketing department of ADMINISTRATION Asanbay art center. This internship Thanks to all these experiences in the private sector was very useful that I have learned in and outside for me as I am planning to create the classroom, I feel prepared to my own start-up in the future. start the new stage in my life. Before I enrolled at AUCA, I had thought These four years at the university that my capabilities were limited. KYRGYZ REPUBLIC of my dreams have passed too Now I feel confident that I can reach quickly. During this period, U.S.– my goals. Thank you, U.S.–CAEF, JALAL-ABAD CAEF has always supported each for opening a whole different one of us in both our academic world for us! pursuits and extracurricular endeavors. Tutoring sessions in

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 21 KIMEP UNIVERSITY

22 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 KIMEP UNIVERSIT

KIMEP UNIVERSITY GRADUATE PROFILES

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 23 From the earliest years of my introduced me to several Nekdil education, I have consistently sub-sections of their department. utilized each unique opportunity Most of my responsibilities included Abdulofizov for professional and personal assisting the Human Resources development. Among the most manager with new employee formative opportunities was my documentation and preparing for selection as a finalist to the Future applicants’ interviews. I am grateful Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program, to have gained many new skills and the year I spent as a high through these experiences. school student in Minnesota, USA. Through this program, As a college student, I was involved I became more independent and in several extracurricular activities, took advantage of all there was to such as debate and sports teams. discover in this new environment. It was within these groups that I gained leadership skills and made In 2014, I was granted another many friends, both local and opportunity: to study finance as international. It was an honor to be a U.S.-CAEF Fellow at KIMEP recognized as the best soccer player University. After completing some during my freshman year. I have also initial courses in business, I realized volunteered with the CCI Greenheart human resource management is a Exchange, a U.S. work and study field in which I can develop a career program, by teaching English in for many years to come. orphanages. Volunteering is an important part of my life. These four years provided me with so many opportunities to grow my As a young and ambitious knowledge and skills in the human graduate, I plan to continue resource management field. I my studies and become a strong participated in my first internship specialist in the field of human with the Mountain Societies resources management. With MAJOR: Development Support Program the skills I have gained from the HUMAN RESOURCE (MSDSP) in Khorog, Tajikistan. In U.S.–CAEF Program, I look forward MANAGEMENT addition to learning more about to contributing to the advancement MSDSP’s mission, which is to of living conditions in my country by AWARDS: coordinate relief and humanitarian providing employment opportunities DEAN’S LIST assistance after war, the Human to many future graduates. FALL 2015 Resources management team FALL 2016 SPRING 2017 “With the skills I have gained from the U.S.–CAEF TAJIKISTAN Program, I look forward to contributing to the KHOROG advancement of living conditions in my country by providing employment opportunities to many future graduates.”

24 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “Going forward, my life will be about contributing to the creation of an Bekzhan Akbayev environment in which all Central Asian students who are determined and work hard to reach their fullest potential.”

I cannot believe I am graduating! where 26 former interns from 14 When I was a freshman, this all felt different markets gathered to solve like a dream. Writing this profile has a real-life business challenge. I was been one of the biggest challenges honored to represent Kazakhstan simply because so much has at this international event. happened in the last four years and it is difficult to know where to begin. All the Fellows graduating this year have had remarkable achievements It has been a long road full of over the course of the past four adventures. During my time at years. None of this would have KIMEP University, I took advantage been possible without the of all kinds of extracurricular U.S.–CAEF scholarship, which we activities, while simultaneously are all fortunate to have received. striving to excel in my studies and professional development. The I want to express my deepest most significant highlight is my gratitude to everyone involved in membership in one of KIMEP’s this great program. I appreciate all oldest and most recognized the efforts to empower us as leaders. MAJOR: organizations: KIMEP Periodical CORPORATE Information-Entertainment (PIE). There are many memories from FINANCE I was eventually elected president these four amazing years, but of KIMEP PIE, which allowed me there is one thing I know I will AWARDS: to gain invaluable leadership never forget. During one of our PRESIDENT’S LIST experience – it turns out managing annual meetings with the Board of FALL 2015 a large team of unpaid people is Directors, Mr. Weinroth voiced an SPRING 2016 really tough! interesting thought: we Fellows are so determined and work hard to DEAN’S LIST I was also fortunate to intern, become successful, but are limited FALL 2017 and later accept a job offer, at by our environment. Going forward, Philip Morris International, a my life will be about contributing to large multinational tobacco the creation of an environment in KAZAKHSTAN manufacturing company. There, which all Central Asian students I participated in a global event who are determined and work hard held in the company’s operations to reach their fullest potential. ALMATY center in Lausanne, Switzerland,

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 25 “U.S.–CAEF truly gave me the opportunity to widen Aigerim my horizons and become the best version of myself. Akimzhan Thousands of thanks for making it possible for Central Asian students to receive an education from leading universities and fulfill our dreams.”

I learned about the U.S.–CAEF Additionally, because of the skills Program with the help of our and knowledge I demonstrated at coordinator at Nazarbayev the case competition, I received an Intellectual School in my native offer to intern with the Tax & Legal city of Kyzylorda. I never thought Department at PwC in August 2018. my acceptance to the program It was a great experience, which would be possible, but as all our provided the opportunity to gain Fellows say, “Dreams do come true!” practical knowledge and skills Thus, I began my studies at KIMEP in the tax sphere. University in 2015 and immediately dove into the opportunities of I continued to work hard as a student life, most prominently, senior. Recently, I fulfilled the as a member of the Kazakh role of delegate at the Leadership national dance team and Amanat Development Day organized by the student organization. international youth organization AIESEC, where I had the opportunity 2016 brought new opportunities, to meet professionals in various including my participation in Smart fields. Additionally, together with Way: Infinity Generation training three of my friends, I am taking sessions. With the help of these part in the Generation Contest sessions, I made the decision to Case Competition organized by SF MAJOR: focus my studies on accounting and Education Center. Finalists receive AUDITING audit. I also participated in Winter a paid internship opportunity, which Universiade 2016 as a volunteer is a great prize for recent graduates. AWARDS: PRESIDENT’S LIST attaché for foreign sports delegates. Thus, our team – the Consulting FALL 2016 This experience was very inspiring, Wizards – strives to become SPRING 2017 as I met many interesting people those lucky finalists! FALL 2017 from all over the world. SPRING 2018 U.S.-CAEF gave me the opportunity In the spring of 2018, there were to widen my horizons and become plenty of opportunities to gain the best version of myself. Thousands experience in my professional of thanks for making it possible for KAZAKHSTAN field. PricewaterhouseCoopers Central Asian students to receive an (PwC), one of the “Big Four” audit education from leading universities KYZYLORDA companies, hosted the Accounting and fulfill our dreams. Olympiad and the Smart & TAXy Case Competition. I won third place in both competitions!

26 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 A girl’s college education was always During my junior year, I was fortunate questioned in my big, conservative to take part in the Study of the U.S. Nigora family. Despite this mindset, and Institute for Student Leaders on Civic our family’s financial difficulties, Engagement in Seattle, WA, US. Burhonova my mother saw my happiness in This was a five-week program where studying. She dedicated many I learned about the importance resources to pay for additional of community service, women’s classes, so I could learn English. leadership, effective public speaking, My mother’s belief in me inspired and U.S. history. The same year, me to study hard and apply for I received the Ernst Mach scholarship the U.S.-CAEF Program and to spend a semester at IMC University pursue my dream of studying of Applied Sciences in Krems, at KIMEP University. Austria. Studying abroad helped me experience a different learning When I arrived at KIMEP, I realized environment and meet amazing how lucky and blessed I was people. In November 2018, I was to be selected as a U.S.-CAEF selected to represent Central Asia Fellow, not only because of the at the 44th International Business financial support, but because Today Conference organized in New of the numerous opportunities York City by Princeton University. provided for students to flourish Taking part in these different in different ways. I immediately programs allowed me to expand my engaged in a variety of student worldview, network with peers and organizations: the KIMEP Times mentors, and exchange ideas with MAJOR: student newspaper, KIMEP youth from many different countries. ACCOUNTING & AUDIT International Student Association, MINOR: Tree Huggers environmental club, Throughout these four years, MARKETING and the Case Club. Membership I tried to grab every opportunity and AWARDS: in these organizations allowed participate in as many conferences PRESIDENT’S LIST me to learn to work in a team, and training programs as possible. SPRING 2016 communicate with people, write I will never stop thanking U.S.-CAEF SPRING 2017 articles, become a mentor for for giving me the opportunity to SPRING 2018 students, organize projects, and pursue my dreams and change my solve business cases. The knowledge life. Now I am ready to step out and DEAN’S LIST and experience I gained from these find my mission in the world. FALL 2015, FALL 2016 organizations helped me complete two internships: one at the NIGORA Association of Kazakhstani Internet HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE Business, and the other with KIMEP U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL University’s accounting department. INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2019

“I realized how lucky and blessed I was to be selected TAJIKISTAN as a U.S.-CAEF Fellow, not only because of the financial support, but because of the numerous opportunities KHUJAND provided to every student to flourish in different ways.”

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 27 Haknazar I am thankful to the U.S.-CAEF Hofburg Palace. This tour helped me H a l l y g y l y j o v Program for the investment into gain a deeper understanding of how my education and professional political organizations operate. development. These four years enriched my academic knowledge My two semesters abroad on two and personal life and helped me different continents were also discover myself and different crucial to my growth. In spring cultures around the world. 2017, I studied at the University of Applied Sciences in Steyr, Austria. My journey to discover myself and The exchange helped me dive the world began a few years earlier, deep into the European education in August 2011, when I was selected system and acquire knowledge as a finalist of the Future Leaders by adapting to different teaching Exchange (FLEX) Program. I spent methods. In spring 2018, I won a one academic year in Texas, USA. Global UGRAD scholarship to study This life-changing program allowed at Nazareth College, Rochester, me to realize that dreams do come New York. I took full advantage of true if a person sets realistic goals, this opportunity by simultaneously and the first step for me was to studying and interning with Upstate acquire a world-class international Capital Association of New York. higher education. The company’s goal is to connect investors and businesses through the My acceptance to the U.S.-CAEF organization of networking events. In Program provided me with a this role, I gained practical knowledge platform to further develop my about business negotiations and life personally, academically, important networking skills. and professionally. In July 2016, I became an alumnus of the After returning from the US in May MAJOR: FINANCE Central Asian Youth Network (CAYN) 2018, I completed an internship in the sponsored by the Organization for investments branch of Halyk Bank in AWARDS: Security and Cooperation in Europe Almaty, Kazakhstan. I am currently PRESIDENT’S LIST (OSCE). In a few months, I was interning in the U.S. Commercial FALL 2015 nominated for the CAYN Study Service of the U.S. Department of Tour to the OSCE headquarters Commerce’s International Trade DEAN’S LIST in Vienna, Austria. The tour Administration in Almaty, Kazakhstan. SPRING 2016 included meetings with OSCE’s I believe these experiences will FALL 2017 various departments and a visit to provide a solid base for my a Permanent Council session at the professional career.

TURKMENISTAN “My acceptance to the U.S.-CAEF Program provided GULUSTAN (MARY REGION) me with a platform to further develop my life personally, academically, and professionally.”

28 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 Zhanna They say that knowledge is power. I would add that education is the “I am happy Kenzhebekova key to success. The process of applying to the U.S.-CAEF Program to be a U.S.-CAEF was a challenge, but I had a strong academic background after Fellow because studying at the Nazarbayev Intellectual School and I was this has provided highly motivated to succeed. me with favorable I have always enjoyed working circumstances with people, so it makes sense that I have always been interested to become in management. I dreamed of earning a bachelor’s degree at a future leader a university where I could gain of Kazakhstan.” knowledge and skills that would lead me to this field. In 2015, I became a U.S.-CAEF Fellow and a freshman at KIMEP University, where I found many opportunities later participating in the “Stars on for self-development. The faculty Ice” student project. Additionally, and staff significantly influenced I developed professional skills my personal and professional while working with KIMEP’s Human growth, specifically at the language Resources department as the center, where I improved my foreign assistant to the visa coordinator. language proficiency. I enjoyed I gained a new understanding this experience, because it helped about migration laws in Kazakhstan, me find friendships with foreign which will surely serve me students and converse in English. in my future career.

I enjoyed the opportunity to Despite all barriers, I keep MAJOR: become a part of KIMEP Periodical climbing the metaphorical ladder HUMAN Information-Entertainment (PIE), and I am excited for this new stage RESOURCE a leading organization at the in my life. Thanks to the U.S.-CAEF MANAGEMENT university that produces a magazine Program, I am ready to perform and organizes student events such as a young professional. There are as commencement and the KIMEP so many new possibilities. I want KAZAKHSTAN Awards. The latter is an annual to express my gratitude to the charity event which usually raises U.S.-CAEF Fellowship for giving 200,000 KZT (approximately 530 me the opportunity to study at USD) per year. I also gained two one of the best universities in new athletic skills after joining Central Asia and become KOKSHETAU KIMEP’s women’s soccer club and a future leader of Kazakhstan.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 29 These four years at KIMEP University youth. I enjoyed sharing ideas Aleksandr have been full of new experiences with intelligent peers and working and personal discoveries. Since my together on several initiatives. Kinyakin first year, I have actively engaged in a variety of student organizations. During the summer of 2017, I became a part of the Intellectual I interned with the finance Debate Club, an environmental department at Choco Family organization called Tree Huggers, Holding, an e-commerce coupon the Open Hearts charitable society, service. I interned the following and the business-consulting summer with the commerce association Case Club. My department at Kimberly-Clark’s membership in these organizations Central Asia & Caucasus office. provided a set of valuable skills There, I learned the importance of including creative thinking, corporate culture and which hard teamwork, and responsibility. skills to prioritize as I prepare to enter the job market. I greatly appreciate In addition to an active student life, my supervisor, who delegated I looked forward to the opportunity serious projects to me. Thanks to to study abroad as an exchange these assignments, I noticed a drastic student. I was fortunate to receive improvement in my presentation two full scholarships to study for and analytical thinking skills. one semester at Juniata College, Huntington, PA, US through the Finally, my passion for foreign Global UGRAD Program, and for languages led to my co-founding one year at the University of of the KIMEP French Club. I am also Applied Sciences in Austria. The a current president of the U.S.-CAEF difference in teaching methods, Student Association, where my student lifestyle, and cultural responsibilities include organizing diversity helped me become teambuilding and professional even more open-minded. development events for Fellows’ enrichment. The U.S.-CAEF My professional network in Central Fellowship has changed the lives MAJOR: FINANCE Asia expanded significantly after of hundreds of gifted young people the Central Asia Youth Network from Central Asia, and I am certainly AWARDS: (CAYN) conference, first as a student no exception. Who I am now is PRESIDENT’S LIST participant, and later as an alum. thanks to this wonderful scholarship FALL 2015 The objective of the conference is to foundation, which has helped make SPRING 2016 design and implement a business my dreams come true. I look FALL 2016 model to tackle the social problems forward to supporting this of extremism and radicalism among amazing program as an alum.

TURKMENISTAN

ASHGABAT “The U.S.-CAEF Fellowship has changed the lives of hundreds of gifted young people from Central Asia… Who I am now is thanks to this wonderful scholarship foundation helping to make my dreams come true.”

30 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 Education is the driving force for the improvement of mankind, Somon and anyone who receives an education maintains the means Mavlonazarov to change the world. I express my “To repay for sincerest gratitude to the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship and KIMEP University for the immeasurable giving me the greatest opportunity impact and support to become someone who could change the world. of U.S.-CAEF, we all

I was born in the small town of must work hard Khorog in eastern Tajikistan, where, and contribute from a young age, I dreamed of a greater future for myself. Fortunately, to our society I was selected as a finalist of this great program. I was immediately and humanity.” proud to call myself a U.S.-CAEF Fellow and a freshman at KIMEP University, where I knew I would enjoy studying business and finance.

Practice makes perfect, so I am lucky that the U.S.-CAEF scholarship part-time job at KIMEP University’s provided the opportunity for us procurement department. Although to participate in the Regional widely considered as a low-priority Internship Program. In the summer position, I gained many new of 2017, I interned with the finance professional skills, such as more and accounting department at effective time management and AUCHAN Tajikistan, one of the networking. I was also able to have biggest retail stores in Tajikistan. a lot of fun with membership in This proved to be the most various student organizations. significant professional experience The most memorable of these MAJOR: during my time as a student. Due to was my participation in KIMEP HUMAN the nature of this department, I had Cinema, where I had the pleasureRESOURSE the unique experience of working of shooting films and workingMANAGEMENT on on both finance and accounting post-production projects. assignments. I also assisted MAJOR: in other departments of the It is amazing how fast these four FINANCE organization and was able to apply years passed, leaving the greatest my new practical knowledge to my memories of our lives and preparing studies upon returning to classes us for future challenges. If I could do TAJIKISTAN in the fall semester. it all again, I would. To repay for the

immeasurable impact and support KHOROG I was able to continue developing of U.S.-CAEF, we all must work my professional experience during hard and contribute to our the school year through my society and humanity.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 31 In 2013, I had the privilege to be of different types of promotional Alisher selected as a finalist of the Future activities for the markets in Tajikistan, Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, and Murtazaev and spent an academic year in the increase of sales and forecast Alaska, USA. This program was very of future sales performance for impactful and helped me develop smartphones in these countries. myself as a leader, but I did not I currently hold the position of know at the time what was waiting Junior Specialist Intern in the for me in the future. I soon learned Product Management department that the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship would of Toyota Motors Kazakhstan. become another life-changing opportunity that would help me Beyond classes and internships, grow and leave lasting memories. I actively participated in a variety of social projects, business case In 2015, the U.S.-CAEF Program competitions, and development became an important part of my life programs and conferences. when I was awarded a scholarship Involvement in social projects and to study at KIMEP University. In helping my community have been addition to my academic focus in my lifelong passions, since I grew corporate finance, I had the unique up witnessing the effects of lack of opportunity to gain professional quality educational opportunities. experience as an intern in the I believe in the notion that every fields of management, sales, and individual in our world should have marketing, which significantly equal opportunities and access to expanded my knowledge of those healthcare, education, and secure MAJOR: fields. I believe that, to become a jobs. I am confident we will find CORPORATE FINANCE professional in a particular field, ourselves in a better society with it is beneficial to work in other these components soon. MINOR: departments and even companies MANAGEMENT specializing in different spheres. I would like to thank the U.S.-CAEF I have always sought to acquire any Program for all the support provided AWARDS: professional work experience both to me and the other students. PRESIDENT’S LIST SPRING 2016 in and beyond my specialization, Without it, my achievements would FALL 2016 and this is a practice I look forward not have been possible. Thanks to SPRING 2017 to continuing. various teambuilding activities and professional growth opportunities, I had the unique opportunity to work it seems that these four years began ALISHER HAS BEEN SELECTED as the Sales Support Specialist at only yesterday. Thank you for TO PARTICIPATE IN THE Samsung Electronics Central Eurasia. creating this opportunity. U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM My responsibilities included analysis IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2019 “Involvement in social projects and helping my TAJIKISTAN community have been my lifelong passions, KHUJAND since I grew up witnessing the effects of lack of quality educational opportunities...”

32 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “The most important gift was the discovery of this Bakhtiyor amazing U.S.-CAEF family. I am truly blessed to Otambekov be surrounded by the best students and highly motivated young professionals, who inspire each other to succeed and become better every day.”

From a young age, I have been hundreds of people, where I both fortunate to study at high-level gained confidence and developed schools where doors have opened my leadership and communication for me to develop my skills through skills. I was also an active participant continuous learning and prepare in the Suleyman Demirel University for my future. I was honored to be debate championship in Almaty, and selected for the Future Leaders the U.S. Department of State’s C5+1 Exchange (FLEX) Program in 2013, Central Asia Business tournament wherein I received the opportunity in Bishkek. to study for one year at a high school in Georgia, USA. The FLEX Program In addition to several enriching helped me to take the biggest step extracurricular activities, I had in my growth towards becoming an the opportunity to complete independent person. an internship with the Network Management department at Toyota One year after my FLEX experience, Motor Kazakhstan. There, I gained I was selected as a finalist for excellent professional experience the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship, which and a new appreciation for the fact provided the opportunity to pursue that an excellent grasp of business my bachelor’s degree in corporate theory is vital for development in a finance at KIMEP University. corporate environment. In this role, I became more familiar with financial As a naturally active person, analysis and forecasting which will be MAJOR: I immediately became involved essential skills for continued success CORPORATE FINANCE in academic and extracurricular in my future career. activities. I participated in numerous AWARDS: financial case contests, debates, Everything this program has given DEAN’S LIST and intellectual competitions. me is invaluable, but the most FALL 2015 One of the most significant of my important gift was the discovery SPRING 2016 student-life experiences was that of of this amazing U.S.-CAEF family. FALL 2016 the Kazakhstan English Language I am truly blessed to be surrounded Theater (KELT), where I not only by the best students and highly learned about acting, but also motivated young professionals, who TAJIKISTAN found a huge family of people who inspire each other to succeed and embodied positive attitudes and become better every day. We were a KHOROG active lifestyles. KELT gave me the family during these four years, and opportunity to perform on stage for we will remain a family forever.

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 33 Following the philosophy of of American government and met Nurbakhsh our Tajik poet Abuabdullo Rudaki, with legislative leaders on Capitol Sartib who said, “Life is a river which is Hill. Upon returning to Tajikistan, in always in motion, so build a ship addition to pursuing a challenging to pass it,” I have always done academic curriculum, I became my best to continuously pursue the first master of Taekwondo in self-development, both intellectually Tajikistan from my region. and physically. Rudaki always underlined the importance of I knew all my hard work paid off education and emphasized that when I was selected as a finalist for one can learn in any situation. the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship after high Thus, it seems appropriate to school graduation. This has been an reflect on the most significant incredible chance to study at one of achievements and learning the best Central Asian universities, opportunities that have brought acquiring a wealth of knowledge me to this point in my life. and experience through hard work and determination. I also had the After advancing in the application privilege to take part in the U.S.- process twice, I was selected as CAEF Summer Regional Internship a finalist for the Future Leaders Program at Coca-Cola İçecek in Exchange (FLEX) Program in 2013. Dushanbe. In this role, I was able This opportunity enabled me to to apply theories from marketing represent my country in the United classes to understand and maximize States, improve my English language the practical experience of working skills, and develop myself as a in an actual corporate environment. leader. This program provided This helped me understand theories a fundamental knowledge of how in class more deeply when I returned to be international – I lived in to the university. It will undoubtedly a community with a completely make it easier for me to adjust different way of life and culture, to the corporate lifestyle in my studied at an American high first professional experience school, and shared knowledge after graduation. MAJOR: about my native country and MARKETING culture. Moreover, I was selected I would like to thank the U.S.-CAEF COMMUNICATION to participate in the Civic Education Fellowship Program for giving me Workshop in Washington, D.C, where the opportunity to receive invaluable AWARDS: we learned about the federal system knowledge and find my path in life. DEAN’S LIST SPRING 2016

TAJIKISTAN “I would like to thank the U.S.-CAEF

KHOROG Fellowship program for giving me the opportunity to receive invaluable knowledge and find my path in life.”

34 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 “The U.S.-CAEF Fellowship provided Nilufar me with the key to open the door of Umarova education, which in turn has opened hundreds of new doors to a better future.”

I was fortunate to grow up in a family goods. This internship allowed me where education was a strong value. to gain new practical experience Therefore, I am grateful to my family and confirmed my desire to pursue for their support, and to U.S.-CAEF a career in marketing. I returned and KIMEP University for allowing to JYSK Tajikistan for another me to gain useful knowledge and internship next summer and was become who I am today. fortunate to receive an offer of full-time employment. I have always strived to use every opportunity to learn something new. My time at KIMEP was also filled The first significant opportunity with many extracurricular activities. I had to do this was in 2014, when I was elected President of the I became an exchange student with environmental organization Tree FLEX and spent one year studying Huggers. Our team executed several at an American high school in “Go Green” projects, including Nevada, USA. After this experience, Recycling Week, Vegetarian Day, I was granted yet another incredible and Free Market. In addition, I won opportunity to advance my an Ernst Mach scholarship to study knowledge as a U.S.-CAEF at the IMC University of Applied MAJOR: Fellow at KIMEP University. Sciences in Krems, Austria in the MARKETING fall 2017 semester. The experience From the beginning of my first helped me better understand that AWARDS: year, I tried to be as active as different countries’ populations have PRESIDENT’S LIST FALL 2015 possible. With the recommendation different consumer demands, which SPRING 2016 of a KIMEP professor, I was is practical knowledge I will use in FALL 2016 selected for an internship at the my future professional roles. SPRING 2017 United Nation’s Office for Disaster SPRING 2018 Risk Reduction (UNISDR) in These four years have shaped me in Almaty. There, I was involved in a way that will certainly influence all NILUFAR the organization of the Regional of my future endeavors. As a senior HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE Platform event that took place in at KIMEP, I now clearly understand U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL Dushanbe in the summer of 2016. that the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC One year later, I had the privilege to provided me with the key to open IN FALL 2019 complete the U.S.-CAEF Regional the door of education, which in turn Internship Program in the marketing has opened hundreds of new doors TAJIKISTAN department of JYSK Tajikistan: a to a better future. Scandinavian retail supplier of home DUSHANBE

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 35 Rustem My first significant life-changing a year studying at an American high Yesnazarov moment occurred when I received school. KIMEP is also known for its notification of my status as a finalist vibrant student life, which is why I for the Future Leaders Exchange immediately joined an organization (FLEX) Program in 2014. called KIMEP Friends during my first semester. Participation in this club As I waited to board my plane back taught me lessons in responsibility to Kazakhstan at Dulles International and teamwork, which is beneficial in Airport in Washington, D.C, I learned personal and professional contexts. about the opportunity to apply for I also had the opportunity to attend a scholarship to study in one of many lectures organized by the Central Asia’s most open universities Leadership Development Program, as a U.S.-CAEF Fellow. Surprisingly, DAMU Entrepreneurs Program, many other FLEX finalists did not and others that broadened my know about this opportunity. international perspective. At first, Despite my initial hesitation, I found it difficult to juggle my I decided it was worth a try. After responsibilities in both academics successfully passing all rounds of the and my student organization; selection process, my second most however, I received help and significant life-changing moment support from my classmates and came in the form of a notification other members of KIMEP Friend, that I was accepted to the U.S.-CAEF which made everything manageable Fellowship program. To be honest, and only improved my academic I have no idea where I would be performance. now if I had not received this life-changing opportunity. Reflecting on my years at this university, there are very few things MAJOR: KIMEP University has always been that I would change. All in all, it was ACCOUNTING famous for its high academic a journey full of friendships, joy, and standards and diverse international bright days. I am endlessly grateful AWARDS: faculty. Most importantly for me, to have had this experience, and PRESIDENT’S LIST KIMEP offers a Western-style I hope the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship FALL 2015 curriculum, which certainly helped is able to continue changing lives FALL 2017 me adapt more easily after spending for the better life.

DEAN’S LIST SPRING 2016 SPRING 2017 SPRING 2018 “It was a journey full of friendships, joy, KAZAKHSTAN and bright days…I hope the U.S.-CAEF ALMATY Fellowship is able to continue changing lives for the better.”

36 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 Mustafa I would like to express my Ziyatbekov sincerest gratitude to the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship Program for giving me “I have become such an amazing opportunity to follow my passion and study the wiser, smarter, field in which I have always wanted to pursue a career. I am also grateful and more confident to KIMEP University for providing in myself because me with a better education and student life than I ever could I am a U.S.-CAEF have dreamed about. Fellow.” In 2013, I was selected as a finalist of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program and studied for one year at a high school in California, USA. Upon returning Conference, and a business to Kazakhstan and approaching training run by the DAMU graduation at my Kazakh-Turkish organization. At the beginning high school, I could not even of my junior year, I knew I needed conceive the possibility of studying to concentrate on my professional at KIMEP University with a full development. Thus, I completed scholarship. Nevertheless, a two-month internship at it all came true in 2015. Weatherford, LLP, which was a valuable first experience in During my freshman year I tried the finance department of to actively participate in KIMEP’s an oil company. student life. I joined the student MAJOR: organization KIMEP Friends and At the end of my time at this CORPORATE became the head of its sponsorship university, I realize that time has MAJOR: FINANCE department in the spring of 2016. flown by very fast. I do not knowHUMAN I also received a certificate for my for sure what my future holds, butRESOURSE AWARDS: PRESIDENT’S LIST contribution to KIMEP’s student life I look forward to expanding myMANAGEMENT FALL 2015 after modifying one of the events skillset in a variety of companies SPRING 2016 for freshmen students. to realize my true calling. I know for certain that I have become DEAN’S LIST I was always eager to learn more, wiser, smarter, and more confident FALL 2016 which is why I participated in both in myself because I am a U.S.-CAEF the KIMEP International Research Fellow during these four years. KAZAKHSTAN

AKTAU

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 37 THE FOUNDATION’S INTERN FELLOWSHIPS

ENTERPRISE INTERN FELLOWSHIPS REGIONAL SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Through the Enterprise Intern Fellowships, the Foundation seeks Since 2009, the Foundation has operated the Regional Summer to afford its Student Fellows the opportunity to gain (1) practical Internship Program, which is made available on a competitive basis work experience within Central Asia early in their university careers to a limited number of Student Fellows completing their second year through our Regional Summer Internship Program and (2) a post- of university study. Both AUCA and KIMEP University require their graduate educational, vocational and cultural experience in the business and economics students to undertake a formal internship United States or other countries that serve as positive examples towards the end of their third year of study. The Foundation’s Summer of democratic open-market economies through the International Regional Internship Program, which includes orientation and support Capstone Internship Program. for the interns, is intended as an opportunity for participants to become familiar with the business environment, enhance their skills and gain practical experience that will help them make informed choices about their degree-required internships in the following year.

A total of nine graduating The Foundation is grateful seniors took part in the to the companies in the Kyrgyz summer 2017 U.S.-CAEF Republic and Tajikistan that Regional Internship Program hosted the Enterprise Interns in Bishkek and Dushanbe: in the summer of 2017:

Daniiar Abdiev THE KYRGYZ REPUBLIC: Coca-Cola Bottlers Begimai Bolotbekova Beeline Akhrorkhon Ikromov Beyond Investment Group Deutsche Gesellschaft Aizhan Kerimbek kyzy für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Sartib Nurbakhsh State Sector for Human Resources Management Kasiet Mambetkul kyzy Hyatt Regency

Somon Mavlonazarov TAJIKISTAN:

Meerim Moldalieva JYSK Coca Cola Nilufar Umarova Schiever Nilufar Umarova

POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL CAPSTONE INTERNSHIPS

The International Capstone Internship Program, launched in 2011, is a four-month work-study program in the U.S. designed to complement four years of university study. Student Fellows who successfully complete their studies and graduate from AUCA or KIMEP University are eligible to apply for the competitive international internship. Six outstanding Student Fellows from the graduating class have been selected to take part in the International Capstone Internship Program in fall 2019:

Daniiar Abdiev, Meerim Moldalieva and Elaman Saralayev from AUCA, and Nigora Burhonova, Nilufar Umarova and Alisher Murtazaev from KIMEP University.

The Foundation’s International Capstone Interns take part in an established and success-proven program operated by The Washington Center (www.twc.edu) in Washington, DC. In addition to the vocational and educational components of the internship, Enterprise International Interns benefit from joining a diverse group of peers from the U.S. and other countries in their program. During their time in the U.S., interns engage in valuable networking opportunities and extensive interactions with experts and leaders from public, private and nonprofit sectors, as well as a wide range of activities arranged by American Councils. Capstone alumni with Uranbek Turdumbaev, U.S.-CAEF coordinator

38 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2019 ALUMNI

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The U.S.-CAEF Alumni Association (the Association) fosters and enhances the involvement of Enterprise Fellowship Program alumni in supporting and complementing the mission and goals of the Foundation through communication, service and leadership.

U.S.-CAEF alumni work in large international corporations, leading domestic enterprises, and small- or medium-sized businesses throughout Central Asia. Several have demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial skills and have started their own businesses in often challenging economic environments, while others have decided to further their education and are pursuing MBAs.

This year, 28 new graduates join the U.S.-CAEF Alumni Association, bringing the total number of program alumni to 257. The alumni leadership team represents both AUCA and KIMEP University and four countries of Central Asia—Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan: Zhibek Kamalbek kyzy PRESIDENT, AUCA CHAPTER AUDIT ASSISTANT, KPMG, BISHKEK The Association hopes that the graduating class of 2019 will join in their efforts to establish an important platform for communication and cooperation between all Zulfiya Urunova Azatbek Ismailov Jahongir Rahimov PRESIDENT, KIMEP CHAPTER VP FOR OUTREACH, AUCA CHAPTER VP FOR OUTREACH, KIMEP CHAPTER program alumni, current OFFER MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR, INTERN, DEAL ADVISORY FINANCIAL CONSULTANT, METRO CASH & CARRY LLC, ALMATY DEPARTMENT, KPMG, ALMATY KPMG, ALMATY fellows and local business communities to complement the Foundation’s goals in fostering the U.S.-CAEF mission, promoting professional development and contributing to an entrepreneurial Guliza Almazbek kyzy Amina Iqbolzoda Anisa Hojieva VP FOR PROFESSIONAL VP FOR PROFESSIONAL REGIONAL ALUMNI spirit and the economic DEVELOPMENT, AUCA CHAPTER DEVELOPMENT, KIMEP CHAPTER COORDINATOR, TAJIKISTAN MARKETING SPECIALIST, FINANCIAL ANALYST, EBRD, ALMATY EDUCATIONUSA ADVISER, prosperity of Central Asia. COCA-COLA BOTTLERS BISHKEK AMERICAN COUNCILS, DUSHANBE

Bahtiyar Jalilov Karina Kussainova Moldir Kussainova RREGIONAL ALUMNI STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR, TURKMENISTAN ADVISOR, AUCA CHAPTER ADVISOR, KIMEP CHAPTER FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, FOUNDER, BEDSET & INJOY CO-FOUNDER AND CEO TRIBALANDS, ASHGABAT STUDIO, BISHKEK FOXOUT.KZ, ALMATY

us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org 39 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Stephen D. Weinroth

CHAIRMAN / PRESIDENT & CEO DIRECTOR HOVNANIAN ENTERPRISES, INC.

Margaret M. Grieve

VICE CHAIR PRESIDENT PMG MANAGEMENT, INC.

Mary S. Ginsberg

FORMER CURATOR CHINESE COLLECTIONS THE BRITISH MUSEUM

Alan Brumberger

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER EMERALD POINT CAPITAL PARTNERS, L.L.C.

Holly Burns

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

U.S. GOVERNMENT LIAISON TO THE BOARD

Christopher W. Edwards

REGIONAL MISSION DIRECTOR U.S. AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

AUDITORS

CUMMINGS, LAMONT & MCNAMEE, P.A.

U.S.-Central Asia Education Foundation American Councils for International Education 124 U Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20001 1828 L Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20036 Phone: (1) 202.800.8560 Phone: (1) 202.833.7522 Fax: (1) 240.597.0870 Fax: (1) 202.822.1689 Email: Holly Burns Email: David Patton [email protected] [email protected] us-caef.americancouncilsnetwork.org americancouncils.org