10 th CLASS OF STUDENT FELLOWS

13 KIMEP UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

15 AUCA STUDENTS THE FOUNDATION IS GRATEFUL FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, ITS CITIZENS, AND THE CENTRAL ASIAN-AMERICAN ENTERPRISE FUND.

CONTENTS

02 05 08 Foundation Overview Celebrating the AUCA • HISTORY Accomplishments Graduates • MISSION of Student Fellows • PROGRAMS • PARTNER UNIVERSITIES • PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR 2 6 42 4 3 KIMEP The Foundation’s Alumni University Intern Fellowships Association

Graduates • REGIONAL SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM • INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Dear U.S.-CAEF Class of 2020,

You have been innovative, strong, resilient, courageous, and caring pathfinders your entire life. Those qualities led you to U.S.-CAEF. Those qualities will allow you to navigate the unforeseen circumstances reshaping the lives and expectations of every person on earth. No one is untouched by COVID-19, but I know of no other graduates of the Class of 2020 who are better prepared to face the challenges ahead.

Graduations are special, but there is nothing more magical than a U.S.-CAEF graduation. For the Board, it is a profound experience to celebrate with our graduating seniors. We follow each U.S.-CAEF Fellow from the moment the Board confirms your selection to the program, through each semester, each internship, each contest, each President’s or Dean’s list, each semester abroad, each event arranged by alumni, each new community service project. For the last four years you have lived, studied, worked and played together. As you have embraced the opportunities of university life at AUCA and KIMEP, we have watched your personal transformation and growth. Graduation brings the entire U.S.-CAEF Family together —you, our graduating seniors, your families, our undergraduates, alumni, American Councils, your professors, and representatives of the U.S. Government.

We know what a hardship it is not to be able to celebrate your graduation in person this year. But you will always be part of the U.S.-CAEF Family. You stand on the shoulders of giants - the Fellows who came before you and so generously continue to support each other and all other U.S.-CAEF alumni and Fellows. You have the Board and American Councils behind you.

We are living at a time of profound uncertainty on the cusp of many changes. But it is these circumstances that present the greatest opportunities. You will seize these opportunities because that is who you are–innovative, strong, resilient and courageous pathfinders. You also will make it a better world because that is who you are. You have great heart and have always thought of the others around you. And you will always be part of the U.S.-CAEF Family.

The future is in your capable hands. It is a privilege to have come to know you through our U.S.-CAEF Family.

We congratulate you on your graduation. U.S.-CAEF Board of Directors STEPHEN D. WEINROTH, PRESIDENT, U.S.-CAEF BOARD “I see U.S.-CAEF as a transformative program, which converted me from a girl with uncertain plans, a lack of confidence, and no specific goal for life into a young, independent and confident person… Now I would like to express my gratitude to this amazing program and to all the people who supported us throughout our student life.”

-Nazirakhon Kholturaeva

VI U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2018 GRADUATION BOOK 2020

th 10 The 2020 U.S.-CAEF graduates represent the 10th class of Student Fellows to receive a CLASS OF university education through the U.S.-Central Asia Education Foundation (the Foundation) STUDENT Enterprise Fellowship Program. A total of 28 Fellows, 15 from American University of FELLOWS Central Asia (AUCA) and 13 from KIMEP University, will celebrate their graduation on May 16 in Almaty, Kazakhstan and May 30 in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz Republic, respectively.

U.S.-CAEF Student Fellows are academically gifted citizen residents 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 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, which include 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 2020 is the result of years of hard work by each Fellow and represents a major milestone in the lives of the graduating students and their families. We recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of these future Central Asian leaders and members of the U.S.-CAEF family.

uscaef.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 and development and growth of a 27 joint ventures with equity (or equity plus debt) financing commenced operation in May 2007. CAAEF was one of the “U.S. Enterprise vibrant open-market private totaling $61.5 million, granted Funds” authorized and funded by the U.S. Government after the dissolution business sector in Central Asia 352 loans to establish or expand of the former Soviet Union. It was incorporated in 1994 as a not-for-profit by: supporting the quality of and small and medium-size enterp- corporation to encourage the creation and expansion of small- and medium- affordable access to Western rises (“SMEs”), and funded more sized enterprises in the Central Asian Republics of the former Soviet Union business expertise and practices than 3,000 micro-credit loans (Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) at selected institutions of higher totaling $10.4 million. and operated in Central Asia for ten years until 2004. Like all Enterprise education in the region that have The Fund’s direct investments, Funds, CAAEF was managed by a private board of directors and was required adopted Western curricula and SME and micro-loan programs to liquidate its investments by a specified “sunset” date and either return teaching methods; providing & technical assistance activities the proceeds to the U.S. Treasury or develop a “legacy proposal” for an opportunities for educational, were directly responsible for: alternative use of these proceeds, consistent with the Fund’s mission. vocational, and cultural * creating a diverse array of private experience in countries that business enterprises that continue During its operation, CAAEF had provided extensive training and education serve as positive examples of an to operate successfully and provide to the young Central Asian men and women who comprised its staff and several thousand private sector open market economy operating employment opportunities; worked in its lending and investing programs. The staff informed the CAAEF within a democratic environment; Board that this business education had proven invaluable. In conducting and promoting other activities * developing the western business research for its legacy proposal, the CAAEF Board found that there was strong practice skills of its local staff, joint that will generate a favorable venture partners and managers, demand among private sector businesses in Central Asia for employees environment in Central Asia for small business loan customers, with a Western business education. Few opportunities existed, however, and employees of the local partner private business to succeed and for academically qualified yet financially disadvantaged students to obtain banks that participated in the entrepreneurial spirit to thrive. Fund’s SME loan program; and, an undergraduate business degree in Central Asia. The CAAEF Board determined that the cornerstone of its legacy proposal would be a financial *achieving a positive demonstration effect, by providing the close need- and merit-based undergraduate scholarship at universities committed support and experience that now to the adoption of a Western-style curriculum. Recipients would pursue finds several of the Fund’s SME loan program Partner Banks offering business-related fields and would be citizens of one of the five countries in small business term-loans directly which CAAEF operated. to their customers, and other 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 par- and habits of critical thinking required for success in the business world, tial, matching scholarship support to many U.S.-CAEF Enterprise Fellows. where our students will spend their professional lives, and their continued We are most appreciative of KIMEP’s recognition of the value of the commitment to the highest quality education. 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 90 countries important to national security, prosperity, and peace, and built a community of more than 94,000 alumni, including national leaders, ministers, members of parliament, ambassadors, and CEOs.

2 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 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 hard- experience within Central Asia, as well as educational, vocational and ship, 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 citi- as positive examples of democratic open-market economies. zen residents of the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

ENTERPRISE STUDENT FELLOWSHIPS STUDENT FELLOWS BY INSTITUTION

In September 2019, U.S.-CAEF learned that the 2020 U.S. Department of State will provide $4 million 2019 52 to continue the U.S.-CAEF Student Enterprise Fellowship Program until 2025, offering students 2018 56 52 from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, 2017 57 55 and Uzbekistan life-altering opportunities to complete undergraduate degrees in business, 2016 62 63 economics, and technology in the context of 2015 59 66 business and economic growth at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA) in Bishkek, 2014 59 62 the Kyrgyz Republic. The award will provide full 2013 57 64 funding, including tuition, housing, and living 2012 52 56 stipends for 75 Enterprise Fellows over the next six years. In addition, it will fund 22 regional 2011 43 50 internships at international and local companies 2010 67 57 in Central Asia for Fellows entering their junior year of study. American Councils will administer 2009 57 44 the grant in consultation with the U.S.-CAEF 2008 51 34 Board of Directors, who will continue to provide key oversight of fellowship selection, academic 2007 49 21 standards, annual publications, student conduct policies, and graduation events. 00 20 40 60 80 100 120

In 2019-2020 academic year, 92 students were awarded U.S.-CAEF scholarships – 55 at AUCA STUDENT FELLOWS BY CITIZENSHIP SINCE PROGRAM INCEPTION: and 37 at KIMEP University. This total includes 15 students sponsored by the U.S. Department of State who began their studies at AUCA in September 2019. The new cohort of Enterprise Fellows comprises citizens of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Tajikistan, as well as five students from Uzbekistan, who are the first from their country to attend AUCA through U.S.-CAEF.

uscaef.org 3 SAULE KUSSAYEVA, REGIONAL COORDINATOR AMERICAN COUNCILS GRADUATION 2020 Celebrating the10th Class of U.S.-CAEF Fellow Graduates

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.

uscaef.org 5 GRADUATION 2020

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, 20 have been recognized on the President’s GRADUATING SENIORS RECOGNIZED ON THE PRESIDENT’S & DEAN’S LISTS or Dean’s Lists.

UULZHAN ZUHROJON DIDORALI BAYAN FARZONA AITNAZAROVA ALIJONOVA ANOYATBEKOV BEKBAS KHAIDAROVA

NAZIRAKHON AIZHARKYN SUHAILO GAVKHARKHON INDIRA Our seniors have also KHOLTURAEVA KUDAIBERGENOVA MAMADNIYOZOVA MAMADZHANOVA MANJIYEVA taken advantage of highly competitive, enriching study abroad programs in Austria, Hong Kong, France, the Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, ZHANNA SULTAN MALIKABONU OLGA MAKSUD Sweden, and the USA. MARCHENKO MOLUTOV ORIFJANOVA PYKHOVA RAHIMOV

In the pages that follow, we offer profiles of these outstanding young men and women, written by the graduating Fellows themselves. MEYLIS ATOBEK PALUAN KARINA MEERIM RAHMANOV RAKHIMSHOEV RIMOV TADJIEVA ZHANYBEK KYZY

6 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020

8 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 AUCA GRADUATES

uscaef.org 9 Uulzhan I believe that education is the key academic competition at AUCA to a successful and prosperous life. for the first time in Kyrgyzstan. In Aitnazarova For this reason, succeeding in my Fall 2019, I co-founded the AUCA academics while studying at AUCA Accounting Club. I also initiated was my top priority. As a result, I the First Bishkek Accounting became one of the best students in Championship in Kyrgyzstan and my cohort. I was awarded Dean’s List implemented it together with my Honor in 2017, 2018 and President’s U.S.-CAEF peers, Zhyldyz Apyshova List in Fall 2019. I also spent my and Shaislam Shabiev. Over 140 exchange semester at the IESEG participants from more than 20 School of Management, which is one universities of Kyrgyzstan had a of the top business schools in France. chance to test their skills and to network with one other. Internships at several businesses such as Gazprom LLC, Bank of Asia, To conclude, as an outcome of and Agroholding Jashyl Charba my activities and projects over the gave me an opportunity to face real last four years, the following things challenges and overcome them. One happened: six people received of the most valuable experiences was a brilliant opportunity to intern interning at Gazprom LLC through in leading international auditing the U.S.-CAEF Regional Internship companies such as KPMG and Program. Other than improving my Mazars; three people are going to soft skills, I also developed my hard participate in the Annual Congress of skills working in both Finance and the European Accounting Association MAJOR: Marketing departments. (EAA) 2020 in Romania; two people BUSINESS were accepted to the Korean ADMINISTRATION I realized that I am a generator of University on a full scholarship; ideas and a goal-oriented person. six people won a full scholarship AWARDS: While studying at AUCA, I came up for NGA and U.S.-CAEF; and one PRESIDENT’S LIST with more than 20 project ideas. student participated in the Women’s FALL 2019 After considering the pros and cons, Leadership Program in the USA. analyzing the expected outcomes, Overall, more than 600 people were DEAN’S LIST I initiated and implemented more involved in activities that I organized FALL 2017 & 2018 than 30% of them. While coordinating or co-managed. None of this would the New Generation Academy (NGA) have been possible without the U.S.- UULZHAN Mentorship Program for two years, CAEF Program, my friends, professors HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE I implemented eight projects and all U.S.-CAEF members. Now I U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL involving more than 250 people. am ready to contribute to my society INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC I also initiated the “Spelling Bee” as a proud U.S.-CAEF alumna! IN FALL 2020 “…more than 600 people were involved in activities that KYRGYZ REPUBLIC I organized or co-managed. None of this would have been possible without the U.S.-CAEF Program, my friends, BISHKEK professors and all U.S.-CAEF members. Now I am ready to contribute to my society as a proud U.S.-CAEF alumna!”

10 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “My childhood dream of becoming a Atai positive influencer in my community Amanatov motivated me to make tough decisions and work towards my goals. This has made me who I am today.”

When I graduated from high school Company. Furthermore, through I chose to apply to the U.S.-CAEF the Future Leaders Exchange Program. It was one of the best (FLEX) program, I interned with decisions that I have made in my the Department of International life. The U.S.-CAEF program shaped Cooperation at the Finance Ministry me into the person that I am now of the Kyrgyz Republic. and has always been pushing me forward. Thanks to this program, I Besides that, I also took part in was able to study at the American the ProKG Leadership program, University of Central Asia (AUCA). created by open-minded and forward-thinking leaders and I am very grateful to be part of the professionals throughout Kyrgyzstan U.S.-CAEF and AUCA communities, who have decided to mentor young which drive me to accomplish students like myself by sharing their more and more by giving me a knowledge and experience. Through quality education, study abroad this program, I gained many new opportunities, and outstanding friends and connections with peers who are intelligent and goal- successful professionals. oriented. When I was given the opportunity to study abroad, I chose On top of all of that, I have also to travel to Europe and take part in a been a co-organizer of various FLEX semester long exchange program at Alumni Grant projects. One of them Poznan University of Economics and was a project called “TechMothers”, MAJOR: BUSINESS Business in Poland. where we educated women from ADMINISTRATION Naryn in computer literacy. Another During my studies, I gained was the “MegaMozg” project, which invaluable experience in various was also held in Naryn to inspire fields through internships. As a young local leaders to study harder. KYRGYZ REPUBLIC sophomore, I had my first internship experience where I was a part of All these experiences helped me the management team of a local transform from a young hesitant NARYN fast food restaurant, Burger House. teen to a more conscientious and After this I took part in the U.S.-CAEF goal-oriented person. Regional Internship Program, which allowed me to intern in the logistics I am very grateful to U.S.-CAEF and procurement department program, which gave me a colossal at Coca-Cola Bishkek Bottlers opportunity to explore the world.

uscaef.org 11 Zhyldyz I had a dream! As a little child Every experience helped me Apyshova with long braids and shining eyes, become more self-confident and I imagined myself reading books open-minded. Thus, I was able to on a beautiful university campus, develop my organizational skills socializing with ambitious peers, when I worked as a project manager and working for the sake of my for a team from Kyrgyzstan that community. I had no idea how it all participated in The First Global may happen to me, yet my family Challenge STEM contest in the and I always believed in my dreams. United Arab Emirates. Also, I was Now, I can proudly say that my honored to be a mentor at a FLEX- dreams came true thanks to the Ability Workshop in Central Europe U.S.-CAEF program. For that, I will in Poland, and it was an absolute never stop appreciating U.S.-CAEF. pleasure to share my knowledge of digital storytelling with FLEX alumni. Since my first year at AUCA, I have been broadening my mind and As I am passionate about social well- developing my analytical, critical, being, I actively volunteered for and and strategic thinking skills. In organized many community projects addition to my AUCA experience, and won several grants. Some of my exchange semester at IESEG these include the English Teachers’ School of Management in France Workshop for regional teachers to was another great educational network and develop their creative platform which gave me diverse teaching skills and I am the Future perspectives. Moreover, cultural Entrepreneur which provided exchange opportunities in several business training for housewives. neighboring countries positively affected my worldview. Additionally, I have organized soft skill trainings for schools across five MAJOR: I also had opportunities to use my different regions over three years. BUSINESS theoretical knowledge in practice I would like to thank U.S.-CAEF and ADMINISTRATION through internships at the Bank of AUCA for all the opportunities they Asia, Ministry of Economy of the have provided. I promise to live up Kyrgyz Republic, and NGO Luciana to the expectations of the program. Malana. In turn, I have noticed changes in myself that have formed through these internships.

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC

TALAS “Now, I can proudly say that my dreams come true thanks to the U.S.-CAEF program. Grown up with valuable experience behind me, I will never stop appreciating U.S.-CAEF.”

12 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 Saira Duishonbekova I will always be grateful to “U.S.-CAEF provided U.S.-CAEF for being a light guiding students not only with me to a better future. U.S.-CAEF’s opportunities to study educational and financial support was an enormous help. During the and grow professionally four years of studies at AUCA, I had but to meet peers who a chance to be surrounded by highly are always ready to help encouraging professors, students, and mentors who motivated me to and support each other.” grow despite the challenges. AUCA is full of opportunities in education, extracurricular activities and professional growth. As for extracurricular activities, I volunteered as coordinator of The U.S.-CAEF Regional Internship the charity club “Senior Friends” Program was my greatest opportunity in 2016; served as trainer of the to utilize the theoretical knowledge “Start the Change” Global Youth I gained at AUCA by practicing it in Service Day project in 2017 in Naryn; real life. In 2018, I had my internship participated in the World Festival experience in the analytics depart- of Youth and Students 2017 in ment of Promotank, a consulting Sochi, Russia; mentored students agency in Bishkek. This experience at the New Generation Academy; added more confidence to my organized three English teaching professional future by gaining summer and winter camps in 2017 technical and soft skills and more and 2018 in Naryn, and represented importantly, it opened a door the Kyrgyz Republic volunteering MAJOR: to my passion. for the Community of International BUSINESS Students at Gachon University in ADMINISTRATION In 2019, I spent my spring semester 2019 in Seoul, South Korea. at Gachon University in South Korea, where I gained knowledge U.S.-CAEF provided students not only of international business and with opportunities to study and grow participated in extracurricular professionally but to meet peers who activities inside and outside of the are always ready to help and support university, which broadened my each other. All of the experiences KYRGYZ REPUBLIC knowledge of the Korean culture. I’ve had throughout my four years at If the regional internship program AUCA were priceless and helped me was an exploration, then my to connect my knowledge of business AT-BASHY semester abroad finalized my desire with my passion for art to create to open a business and to make something that would contribute it international. to improving our society.

uscaef.org 13 Farzona Creativity and leadership are Google Development Fests, and what first drove me to pursue software development meetups. Khaidarova business administration. New business ideas fascinate me, the I’m very thankful to U.S.-CAEF idea of running a business and the for the possibility to intern at two risks involved have excited me for well-known companies. My first years. Thanks to U.S.-CAEF, I have internship was with BDO Tajikistan, been given the opportunity to part of the international network of realize my dreams through my public accounting, tax, consulting studies at a leading university and business advisory firms, where of Central Asia among forward- I started learning more about thinking and goal-oriented peers. auditing and utilizing marketing I was honored with certificates of tools to attract new clients. successful completion from the Paris Institute for Political Studies, My second internship was with from the Organization for Security Neobis, an information technology and Cooperation in Europe NGO, where I worked as a project Academy, and from Dongbei manager. Following my internship, University of Finance and I was offered the position of Chief Economics in Dalian, China. Financial Officer with Neobis Clubs. In addition to this, I have developed Education is the key, but in order products for FINCA Bank, and to open the doors of success we enhanced my research, analytical, have to put knowledge into practice. and financial planning skills by MAJOR: Thereby, I started leading the working remotely with the Economic BUSINESS “Unity Fund” club [co-founded by Corporation Organization in Tehran. ADMINISTRATION a U.S.-CAEF alumnus, Ignat Kim], working with my U.S.-CAEF peers I highly value the goals of the U.S.- AWARDS: on the activities of the AUCA Case CAEF program. It is indeed a unique PRESIDENT’S LIST Club, and organizing Central Asia place for learning, collaboration, FALL 2019 business case competitions. I also and friendship. Due to the program’s contributed to developing the support, I stopped bouncing from DEAN’S LIST information technology sector at one specialization to another and FALL 2017 & 2018 AUCA by working with a team that discovered what I am passionate organized several A.I. Hackathons, about in my life. FARZONA HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM “I highly value the goals of the U.S.-CAEF IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2020 program. It is indeed a unique place for

TAJIKISTAN learning, collaboration, and friendship. Due to the program’s support, I…discovered DUSHANBE what I am passionate about in my life.”

14 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “U.S.-CAEF is a family of unique Mirlan and extraordinary students. I am happy Kochkorbaev to be a part of this family.”

In the eleventh grade, before leaving accomplish this effectively. I was school, I didn’t know what to do also an intern at the confectionery with my life, but I knew one thing – I factory, Ata. As a sales department wanted to contribute to my country intern, I learned all about how through the business sector. At that companies communicate with their very moment, I learned about the partners and distributors. U.S.-CAEF Program. Now, four years later, I am grateful that I am a part I co-founded a startup, Millor Mebel, of the program and made friends a company that produces home among like-minded people who and office furniture. Thanks to this wish to contribute to my country. experience, I realized how hard it is to start a company and keep During my four years at AUCA, I it going. As we worked towards received valuable knowledge from building a successful business, the best professors and business I realized the importance of the professionals. Furthermore, AUCA knowledge gained from my classes offers many opportunities through on marketing, finance, business its many clubs, championships, communications, business law as and different events to use your well as organizational behavior and theoretical knowledge in practice. management. One such event was the AlmaU MAJOR: Business Case Championship, I also engaged in social projects BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION which was held at Alma University in through the Youth Social Entrep- Almaty, Kazakhstan. At this event, I reneurship Project, a charitable learned a lot about the Kazakhstani organization created by U.S.-CAEF business sector and became fellows of earlier cohorts. We imple- acquainted with AlmaU students mented various projects in schools who are also focused on business. and orphanages. One such project, Studentization, was aimed at sharing

In addition to the many events, knowledge and opportunities for KYRGYZ REPUBLIC there were internship opportunities schoolchildren and students. that helped me grow professionally. I interned in the marketing In the future, I hope to contribute BISHKEK department of the art café, Chicken to my country through the business Star. There, I learned how companies sector thanks to the knowledge communicate with their customers and experience gained at AUCA through marketing and how they as a U.S.-CAEF Fellow.

uscaef.org 15 Aizharkyn

Kudaibergenova My constant curiosity towards understanding of finance and learning new things has led me to accounting through a different many incredible opportunities. One perspective. I also received the such life-changing opportunity is DAAD scholarship to participate in the U.S.-CAEF program, which has an intercultural summer course in supported me for the past four years the German language in Munich. at AUCA. I am truly grateful to the These opportunities have allowed program that allowed me to study me to broaden my horizons, to meet at one of the best universities in people from around the world, and Central Asia, and for the immense to make life-long memories. contribution it has had towards making me who I am today. In order to develop my professional skills in finance further, I completed Studying at AUCA among hard- several internships at local working students and inspiring companies. I had a wonderful professors has empowered me to experience working in the banking reach for my professional goals. sector as an assistant dealer in the By challenging myself through my treasury department of Bai-Tushum academics and extra-curricular Bank. Additionally, through a strong activities I gained valuable skills, desire to learn more about private experiences, and a broad knowledge equity funds, I am now interning of many disciplines. at a local business-accelerator, Accelerate Prosperity, where I am Among the many different a business and investment analyst. MAJOR: opportunities made available to These internships have helped me BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION me by the U.S.-CAEF program and grow professionally and reinforced AUCA, I would be delighted to my dedication to finance. AWARDS: mention my exchange semester at PRESIDENT’S LIST Poznan University of Economics At the end of this four-year journey FALL 2019 and Business in Poland where I full of unforgettable moments, studied finance and accounting. I can see how great an impact the DEAN’S LIST Experiencing education in another U.S.-CAEF program has had on my FALL 2018 country helped me strengthen development as a young adult, and my academics and improve my I am sincerely grateful for that.

“I am truly grateful to the program that allowed KYRGYZ REPUBLIC me to study at one of the best universities in BISHKEK Central Asia, and for the immense contribution to the formation of my personality.”

16 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “For a big part of my life, I was certain that I Suhailo was exceptionally lucky. I believed my path Mamadniyozova in U.S.-CAEF began with luck and now, by the end of the program, I am certain that luck only works out when you put in hard work, devotion, and fully commit to your goal.”

By the end of my FLEX year, I was Besides the academic and career relieved and extremely excited to experiences, there were many receive the news that I was accepted experiences which I have been to AUCA’s Business Administration through that have formed me into program through the U.S.-CAEF the person I am today. Notably, I Program. The requirements of the served as finance officer of the AUCA program, as well as my personal Student Senate, resident assistant at need for excellence, have motivated the AUCA dormitory, mentor to three me to take my academic studies talented young women among the seriously. This is how I ended U.S.-CAEF fellows, and accounting up being on the Dean’s List for and writing tutor to university three years in a row. Besides this students through the AUCA Writing validation of my hard work, I have and Academic Resource Center for excelled in such classes as Financial the last three years. I was honored to Accounting, Managerial Accounting, be selected as an exchange student and Corporate Finance. These by Erasmus+, where I was able to MAJOR: classes have certainly helped me engage in work and friendship with BUSINESS frame my future endeavors. many people from very diverse ADMINISTRATION cultural backgrounds in Europe. As part of the U.S.-CAEF regional AWARDS: internship, I was immersed in the Before being introduced to DEAN’S LIST world of auditing, which was both U.S.-CAEF, it was always all the FALL 2017 certainly exciting and new. My two other older, smarter, and more FALL 2018 months at the internship at Crowe experienced people who would FALL 2019 Horwath ACG Tajikistan helped me change the world, develop the determine that consulting was the region, and inspire others through sector where I want to make my their journeys. Without these last career. Now, I can confidently say four years, I would have never that I can influence the development believed I could become my own TAJIKISTAN of my country through audit role model. and consulting. DUSHANBE

uscaef.org 17 Zhanna While pursuing my bachelor’s degree, During my senior year, I became I spent a semester abroad at the head of the Business Clinic and Marchenko Sciences Po Paris – Campus Reims, successfully implemented several in France. My education experience research projects in cooperation has equipped me with a solid under- with the Business Administration standing of empirical research, which Department. prepared me to be flexible and pre- pared for new challenges in work and One of the most interesting and education. Also, my experience with engaging parts of my university a variety of different businesses and life was participation in the AUCA financial management companies Case Club and the many case in the USA, where I was working in competitions such as the CFA the hospitality sector the last three Research Challenge Competition, summers, solidified my future goals Changellenge Business Case and helped me understand the deve- Competition, Creative Shock lopment of the financial sector in Business Case Competition, and the the United States and compare it CBS Case Competition. Our team to Kyrgyzstan. was proud to represent Kyrgyzstan for first time at the HSBC Bank The biggest contribution to my and Honk Kong University Case willingness to continue my edu- Competition, which definitely cation in the international finance was a great chance to learn from and banking sector was my intern- our international peers, establish ship in the World Trade Organization international connections, and see Department of the Ministry of global perspectives on different Economy of the Kyrgyz Republic. social and economic problems. This experience allowed me to learn how our country engages in Helping others has always been international cooperation with our a part of who I am. During my trade partners, to develop a broader junior year, I was selected to be MAJOR: understanding of the economy of a peer tutor in Math at the AUCA BUSINESS Kyrgyzstan, and to see possible Writing and Academic Resource ADMINISTRATION future plans for development. Center. And finally, in the last four AWARDS: years I successfully implemented DEAN’S LIST During my sophomore year, I was a variety of social projects with the FALL 2017 selected to be a part of the Business sponsorship and help of the FLEX- FALL 2018 Clinic at AUCA, where I learned to Ability and FLEX Grants Projects. FALL 2019 work in a team, and I started my first consulting and marketing projects.

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC “It is my great pleasure and honor to be a U.S.-CAEF BISHKEK scholarship recipient. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the U.S.-CAEF Family.”

18 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “The greatest skills that AUCA and U.S.-CAEF taught me were to think critically and be self-assured. My last semester I spent Olga with pain in my heart realizing that these four years have passed Pykhova quickly. However, there is a bright future ahead and I have my U.S.-CAEF family, the family who always believes in me.”

I have always dreamed of starting person should have a hobby that a business and being a change- keeps their heart beating. In addition, maker in my community. It may I have participated in the Student sound selfish, but I want people Senate, Youth Council C5+1, AUCA to remember me. I want to leave Case Club, AUCA Business Clinic, something behind. No matter YSEP and Diversity Week. At the same what hardships I have had to face time, I maintained a strong academic throughout life, there have always performance and was recognized on been people who believed in me. the Dean’s List in 2017 and 2018, and U.S.-CAEF has been a life-changing the President’s List in 2019. opportunity that allowed me to fulfill my potential and realize seemingly I was also the first student at AUCA to unattainable childhood dreams. participate in the exchange program at Gachon University, South Korea Based on my goals, I chose Business after completing my freshman year. as a field of study in the best university of Central Asia as my life motto is, Additionally, I was chosen to be “Best or nothing.” I had internships at a writing tutor at the Writing and eight companies. The most influential Academic Resource Center at AUCA. MAJOR: was my regional internship in the I enjoyed the unique and inspiring BUSINESS marketing department of Gazprom, work environment among the ADMINISTRATION an oil company, through the U.S.- brightest students of AUCA. CAEF Regional Internship Program. AWARDS: The internship helped me realize the AUCA is a place where I tested myself PRESIDENT’S LIST importance of data analytics. Another as an entrepreneur by founding the FALL 2019 important internship was with professional development courses DEAN’S LIST Highland Capital LLC, a private equity called “ProSkills”. In January 2020, I FALL 2017 & 2018 company. I consider it as one of my became a co-founder of the online greatest achievements as I received jewelry store, “Oddy,” which focuses OLGA the internship offer from the CEO of on inclusivity. HAS BEEN SELECTED the company himself. The experience TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL helped me discover the world of The greatest skills that AUCA and INTERNSHIP PROGRAM investments and tools that can help U.S.-CAEF taught me were to think IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2020 finance and develop such fields as critically and be self-assured. My last recycling and clean energy. semester I spend with pain in my heart realizing that these four years KYRGYZ REPUBLIC I consider participation in have passed quickly. However, there

extracurricular activities as the key is a bright future ahead and I have BISHKEK instrument of self-development. My U.S.-CAEF family, the family who best memory is about the student always believes in me. theatre, as I believe that a successful

uscaef.org 19 Atobek Being highly motivated and Department at Tajikistan Coca-Cola interested in contributing to my Bottlers. This internship helped me Rakhimshoev community through business take a deeper dive into the processes development, I applied to American of the marketing business. This University of Central Asia (AUCA) experience also contributed to my and the U.S.-CAEF Program and understanding of the importance was accepted into both in 2016. of corporate culture and its effect on the productivity of employees. What is U.S-CAEF to me? It is an Afterwards, I worked as a writing influential program that has affected tutor in the Writing and Academic all aspects of my life! With financial, Resource Center (WARC) at AUCA academic, and professional support and managed an online shop on it helped me to improve myself and Etsy, an e-commerce platform. to grow as a leader and a person. For this, I am very grateful. Currently, I am working as a project manager at Arniro Web and Mobile The effort I put into my academics Application Development Company, paid off with my recognition on the specializing in custom mobile and President’s and Dean’s lists. Along web development. Working as a with my interesting major courses, project manager is both challenging I had the opportunity to take several and fascinating; you learn about creative courses which have directly the different aspects of various contributed to improvements in my businesses, about how best to academics and other aspects communicate with clients, and when of my life. working closely with the developers you constantly learn about the fast- Currently, I am writing an academic paced world of technology. paper titled, “My Supervisor and MAJOR: Motivation at Work,” which I hope I want to thank the U.S.-CAEF BUSINESS will make positive changes in how Program: you have provided me ADMINISTRATION the professional community views with the opportunity to study at AWARDS: approaches to leadership. AUCA, where I transitioned from PRESIDENT’S LIST being an unexperienced teen to FALL 2019 As part of the U.S.-CAEF Regional a confident, goal-oriented young Internship Program in 2018, professional with skills DEAN’S LIST I interned with the Marketing and expertise. FALL 2017 & 2018

“U.S.-CAEF gave me an opportunity to cooperate TAJIKISTAN and interact with people who are academically

KHOROG and professionally successful and to learn from them. Thank you, U.S.-CAEF.”

20 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 Shaislam “The motivation to become a better version Shabiev of myself and to be proactive in serving my community guided me through the four years of study at AUCA.”

I will always be grateful to U.S.-CAEF Throughout these four years, I have for the opportunity to receive a gained a vast amount of international quality education at one of the best experience in different fields. As a universities in Central Asia, being freshman, I managed to spend one in an environment with exceptional month in a small village in Germany and talented students and the future through the Social Civic International leaders of society. I have always tried Program, where I studied the German to demonstrate strong academic economy and its development after results and be active in university World War II. life. Besides that, I was selected for a semester abroad where I studied Two more recent achievements I at IESEG School of Management have had, working with my U.S.-CAEF in France. peers Uulzhan Aitnazarova and Zhyldyz Apyshova, were related to Over the course of the last four the creation of the accounting club years, I have plunged into different at AUCA and organizing the First academic, extracurricular, and Bishkek Accounting Championship professional activities. In the (FBAC). Through these activities, we summer of 2016, I interned with have created a platform for students MAJOR: the Open Society Foundation’s and employers interested in audit BUSINESS Education Support Program. and finance. More than 140 students ADMINISTRATION There, I managed contracts, took part in FBAC and as a result, individual grants, visas, travel to 12 out of 24 of the finalists have the conference for participants, received internship offers from some and logistical arrangements with of the largest audit companies in the different agencies in Bishkek. It region; they will also participate in an was an immense experience as it international conference and receive helped me to strengthen my social training in accounting and taxation. KYRGYZ REPUBLIC and soft skills. Through the U.S.- CAEF Regional Internship Program, The past four years had a tremendous I interned with Sky Mobile’ (Beeline) impact on my growth. Now, I feel KARAKOL Digital Development Department. ready to make the next step in my At Sky Mobile, I worked on three life to pursue my goals. different projects simultaneously dealing with benchmarking, collecting data, processing them and making reports.

uscaef.org 21 Sevara The purpose of my studies is tied I was lucky enough to receive strongly to my life-long goal, which many opportunities that helped Tadzhibaeva is to greatly contribute to the me develop as a responsible and development of the economy of socially active individual. I shaped Central Asia. As an “A” student in my management and leadership high school with a great enthusiasm skills by managing the AUCA Case to work in the business sector, I was Club for three years, being a student selected for U.S.-CAEF Scholarship senator, and a ProKG Leadership program in 2016. Being a part of Program member. this program benefited me greatly by allowing me to grow into a I have represented AUCA in several professional and mature person. case competitions. Moreover, I Most importantly, U.S.-CAEF gave me organized the Bishkek Case Cup a platform where I was able to realize in 2018 and 2019 in collaboration my potential, identify my strengths, with the Coca Cola Company and and establish life-lasting relationships Kyrgyz Concept Company. I spent an with outstanding peers. exchange semester at the University of Hong Kong, where I participated Since my first year at AUCA, I put in the HSBC Bank/Hong Kong effort into succeeding and trying University Asia Pacific Business Case my best both academically and Competition 2018. This experience professionally. Interning during my made me feel confident in the freshman year at HYATT Regency professional skills I built at AUCA. with the Beyond Investment Group gave me an incredible opportunity Given my consistent desire to to better understand office workflow. develop, I was hired as a KPMG Audit MAJOR: Since then, I have had many other Company Intern recently. In addition BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION professional experiences including to this, at the recommendation of internships at the U.S. Embassy, my accounting professor, I became AWARDS: Quasar Recruitment Agency (through an Accounting and Finance tutor STUDENT LIFE the U.S.-CAEF Regional Internship at the Writing Academic Resource EXCELLENCE AWARD Program), BizExpert Consulting, and Center at AUCA for the 2019-2020 FALL 2018 Deloitte BGI Consulting Internships. academic year. I have been a proactive student SEVARA by taking part in ENACTUS, MUN I believe that all the skills and HAS BEEN SELECTED Simulations, Debate Club, and experiences I have gained throughout TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL the GetEngaged Global Network these years have prepared me well INTERNSHIP PROGRAM conference in 2017 in Budapest. for my future career. IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2020

KYRGYZ REPUBLIC “Most importantly, U.S.-CAEF gave me a platform where I was able to realize my potential, identify TOKTOGUL my strengths, and establish life-lasting relationships with outstanding peers.”

22 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “I will always be proud to be a U.S.-CAEF fellow Meerim Zhanybek Kyzy and will do my best to use the knowledge invested in me for the enrichment of our world.”

During my time with the Future my favorite projects was “Dream Leaders Exchange Program in 2014- Girl”, where we taught high school 2015, I loved studying American girls in the Zhalal-Abad region how History at Jefferson County Open to plan goals, be professional, and School and was able to participate boost their self-confidence. in the 50th Anniversary of the Selma Civil Rights March in Montgomery, Additionally, I spent a semester Alabama. This event made me at Stetson University in Deland, realize the importance of equal Florida, which helped me expand my rights and education for the growth worldview. Participating in the 2018 of a country. Since then, I have been International HSBC Bank Business passionate about educating women Case Cup in Hong-Kong imprinted and girls in Central Asia about on me a strong interest in learning business. I became a finalist of the more about the marketing and data U.S.-CAEF Program in 2016, which mining fields. I was able to leverage was an incredible turn in my life this interest during my internship towards a bright future. through the U.S.-CAEF Regional Internship Program with Sky Mobile U.S.-CAEF gave me a marvelous LLC, the largest telecommunication opportunity to develop myself company in the region, in the academically, professionally, summer of 2018. During that and even personally through the internship, I learned how to collect MAJOR: program’s mentorship program. and analyze data from focus groups, BUSINESS From early 2016, I sharpened and how to develop practical ADMINISTRATION my public speaking, leadership, recommendations based on the AWARDS: and time management skills by findings. I continued to develop my DEAN’S LIST participating in Enactus, Model professional skills through other FALL 2017 United Nations, entrepreneurial experiences, including internships FALL 2018 projects, and international student with Burger House and the Ministry FALL 2019 conferences. They empowered me of Education of the Kyrgyz Republic, to become President of the Youth and as a remote IT assistant for Social Entrepreneurial Project, Salesforce’s online program and an founded by the U.S.-CAEF fellows accounting tutor at AUCA. KYRGYZ REPUBLIC of earlier cohorts; public relations manager of the AUCA CASE Club; Thanks to U.S.-CAEF, not only did I KOCHKOR-ATA manager of the Health & Care grow as a professional, but I found project in Turkey, and an organizer a big caring family where everyone of ten community projects. One of helps each other.

uscaef.org 23 Sezim My four years of studies were full of of Antimonopoly Regulation of the adventures and warm memories Kyrgyz Republic in Central Asia, Zhenishbekova among many bright, motivated, and and startup goTULIP based in the ambitious people. With a supportive Netherlands. By working in many community and a clear vision in different fields of business, I obtained mind, I have been proactive in both crucial skills and knowledge needed my studies and extracurricular to be a successful entrepreneur. activities. I attended an exchange semester in the Netherlands at HAN In addition to my professional University of Applied Sciences. I was development, I made sure to devote also able to participate in the Artificial time to non-academic pursuits on Intelligence & Big Data Conference and off campus. I have done a little Exhibition EXPO in Amsterdam, the bit of everything, including being Copenhagen Business School Case a resident assistant at the AUCA Competition 2019, and the Everest dormitory, Vice-Chairman of the International Model United Nations AUCA Student Senate, a member conference in Kathmandu. These of the AUCA Girls Basketball team, were some of the most exciting project manager of the Youth events that happened during my life Council C5+1, project manager of at AUCA, all of which strengthened ENACTUS, coordinator of the AUCA my cross-cultural competence and Case Club, and a mentee of the diversified my thoughts and values. ProKG Leadership Program. All of these opened new horizons for my I had many opportunities to self-development and community develop professionally through engagement. my participation in the U.S.-CAEF MAJOR: Regional Internship Program, and I am confident that the experience BUSINESS various internships and projects and education I have received in ADMINISTRATION with international, national, and both academic and non-academic governmental entities including the activities will provide a solid AWARDS: American Chamber of Commerce, foundation for my journey towards STUDENT LIFE Irish OnDemand Startup, Highland my future and allow me to contribute EXCELLENCE AWARD Capital, World Class, Burger House, to the development of Central Asia. FALL 2018 Business Clinic, the State Agency

SEZIM HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL “The U.S.-CAEF program opened doors to INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC life-changing opportunities for me to grow IN FALL 2020 not only professionally, but also personally. I will surely continue to develop my KYRGYZ REPUBLIC professional skills and hopefully will be able NARYN to use them to make an impact comparable to the impact U.S.-CAEF has had on my life.”

24 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 uscaef.org 25 KIMEP UNIVERSITY

26 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 KIMEP UNIVERSIT

KIMEP UNIVERSITY GRADUATES

uscaef.org 27 Zuhrojon Alijonova Acquiring a high-quality education Moreover, during these four years, has been one of my biggest dreams I was a member of two student since high school. This desire led me organizations. In my freshman and to the U.S.-CAEF Program, which has sophomore years, I was a member been one of the greatest blessings of Buddies of International Students in my life so far. While getting my (BIS), where I helped exchange education, I have been able to and international students with define my goals, prioritize my documents, accommodation values, meet true friends, and and language. In my junior year, discover my passion. I joined The KIMEP Times, a student newspaper, as a writer. My academic life at KIMEP was full of diverse experiences. Focusing on developing only one I wholeheartedly dedicated myself aspect of a person or professional to studying, which led to my success is not enough. I believe a person in academic life at KIMEP. However, should seek knowledge and I did find some courses to be very improvement in various fields challenging, but all group projects, besides his or her main career paper submissions, and exams focus. Therefore, in my free time contributed to my academic growth. I have learned the Uzbek and I gained extensive knowledge in German languages and expanded finance, accounting and business. my knowledge in psychology In addition, I participated in various and ethics. student research conferences MAJOR: at KIMEP University as a part of I am grateful to U.S.-CAEF for CORPORATE FINANCE my studies. I also completed an giving me an opportunity to grow MINOR: internship at FINCA Company in and thrive. I know that the light ACCOUNTING the summer of 2018 in Khujand, of this program will lead me to Tajikistan. In addition, I completed numerous opportunities and AWARDS: another internship at JSC Bank accomplishments in the future. DEAN’S LIST Eskhata in summer 2019. FALL 2016 SPRING 2017

TAJIKISTAN “U.S.-CAEF opened the doors to a path full of discoveries and emotions for me. KHUJAND Even though these four years were hard at times, I like the person I have become through this journey.”

28 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “U.S.-CAEF enabled me to take Didorali a big step towards my goal.” Anoyatbekov

I am thankful to U.S.-CAEF and for various local and foreign travel KIMEP University for the immense agencies, which trusted me to help they gave me in achieving my conduct trekking and cultural goals. Earning a bachelor’s degree at tours across Tajikistan. a university such as KIMEP University was a big dream for both my In November 2018, I participated family and me. in the Weltweitwandern Tour Guides Academy in Austria, where These four years at the university I represented my country and contributed a lot to my academic enhanced my skills as a tour guide. and personal growth. My goal has always been to work in the tourism It was always important for me industry in the future, so I knew the to learn in different environments. importance of understanding the Therefore, during my college years, world of business. The courses at I used the chance to be part MAJOR: KIMEP and Lodz University of Poland of one of the biggest students’ BRAND MANAGEMENT (where I studied for a semester) organizations, AIESEC, where I have helped me to acquire this served as a marketing officer and AWARDS: understanding. An exchange had a great time. In addition, PRESIDENT’S LIST semester in Poland was an amazing during my senior year, I worked FALL 2016 opportunity to explore a new as a Teacher’s Assistant at KIMEP SPRING 2017 culture, make new friends, and University and took part in an SPRING 2019 learn from great professors. internship at Total Advertising Group FALL 2019 in Tajikistan. Work experience and DEAN’S LIST Besides the theoretical knowledge internships helped me understand FALL 2018 I gained during my college years, my major and implement the I worked as a tour guide during knowledge I gained in my classes. DIDORALI summer breaks, as I knew how HAS BEEN SELECTED vital it was to acquire practical All these achievements were only TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL skills and to understand firsthand possible with the support of the INTERNSHIP PROGRAM the challenges of the industry. My U.S-CAEF scholarship and KIMEP IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2020 work as a tour guide enhanced my professors. I believe that this is only passion for the tourism industry. the beginning, and I look forward to TAJIKISTAN I have also been continuously achieving much more in the future. developing my skills by working

DUSHANBE

us-caef.org 29 “I am so thankful to the program Bayan for supporting me throughout these Bekbas four years. It was a bright and unforgettable journey.”

I used to feel like a fish in the Company. I assist the Brand Manager aquarium – I was in my comfort of Coca-Cola Kazakhstan and every zone, but I wanted to broaden day the level of my professionalism my horizons. U.S.-CAEF gave me increases. The reason I am doing this a chance to transition from the is I am pursuing a principle of mine: aquarium to a sea with unlimited a person should be flexible and opportunities and facilities. I am multifaceted. It is necessary to have so thankful to the program for different skills and knowledge about supporting me throughout these different areas. four years. It was a bright and unforgettable journey. I have During my time at KIMEP University, overcome my fears and acquired I focused mostly on my academic a clear sense of where my future performance and volunteering. will take me. I was a part of the Almaty Invest MAJOR: Forum and had the privilege to CORPORATE FINANCE Experience is something that gives be an attaché at the 2017 Winter MINOR: you an advantage. By acquiring Universiade. During all four years LEADERSHIP experience, you become stronger. at the university, I was involved in It is like with champions; they different activities. I participated AWARDS: don’t just wake up as champions, in the Journey to the Great Steppe PRESIDENT’S LIST they work hard and experience expedition. I was a member of FALL 2016 a lot in order to win awards and the KIMEP Association of Sports FALL 2018 recognition. So, in these four years of Development, KIMEP Case Club, SPRING 2019 studies, I have gained experience in and KIMEP soccer and volleyball DEAN’S LIST different fields: education, startups, clubs. In addition to being a KIMEP FALL 2017 finance, and marketing. I worked student and pursuing a goal of SPRING 2018 as a teaching assistant at KIMEP becoming a finance professional, University, then I worked as SMM I am a self-made girl, who became BAYAN manager in a Chinese educational Vice-Miss Virtual Kazakhstan and HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE center where I was able to put the earned a spot in the TOP 5 at the U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL knowledge I gained in my university Kazakh Aruy International beauty, INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WASHINGTON, DC lectures into practice. During my knowledge and talent contest. IN FALL 2020 third year, I gained great experience in the finance department of JSC Volkovgeology, where I learned more KAZAKHSTAN about analyzing financial statements and internal audit. Currently, I am interning at the multinational KOKSHETAU corporation The Coca-Cola

30 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 Abylaikhan Ispayev My family has always highly valued activities, from running my own education, but being a naïve student organization to playing as a teenager, I tried to prove to them middle linebacker on the university’s that higher education is not American football team. necessary to find your place in life. I had been involved in many I was also fortunate enough to extracurricular activities and taken represent KIMEP at the FinSteppe part-time jobs before I realized that competition organized by Astana an educated and experienced person International Financial Centre (AIFC), can achieve more success in life. and later receive an internship opportunity with them for the While working at my first jobs, summer. There, I gained a lot of I realized I lacked sufficient information about other business- knowledge and experience, so related majors and decided to I started taking online courses make Finance my minor. on Marketing through Coursera; at that time, I could only dream In the Fall of 2019, I participated in about studying at the top university an international exchange program in Central Asia – KIMEP University. and spent a semester in Seoul, Sure enough, in 2016, I was blessed South Korea. I was honored to to receive a U.S.-CAEF scholarship represent not only my country but to support my studies in the field the whole Central Asian region at of my choice – marketing. Sungkyunkwan, one of the top- ranked universities in South Korea. It has been a long road full of adventures. During my time at Currently, I am exploring various KIMEP University, I took advantage job opportunities and still cannot of all kinds of extracurricular believe I am graduating so soon. activities, while simultaneously I am proud to be a U.S.-CAEF MAJOR: striving to excel in my studies Fellow and I am grateful for all the MARKETING and professional development. opportunities and advantages that the program has provided. MINOR: Since my first semester at the FINANCE university, I was involved in various

KAZAKHSTAN “I am proud to be a U.S.-CAEF Fellow and I am grateful for all the ALMATY opportunities and advantages that the program has provided.”

us-caef.org 31 Nazirakhon Kholturaeva

I see U.S.-CAEF as a transformative Regional Internship Program. There, program, which converted me from I worked in two departments – a girl with uncertain plans, a lack Finance and Marketing. Moreover, of confidence, and no specific goal I participated in the Central Asia for life into a young, independent Flexibility Workshop (CAFAW), and confident person, who has a organized by the FLEX program in clear strategic plan for the next three Almaty. In fall 2018, I successfully years of her life. Now I would like to completed an exchange semester share my gratitude to this amazing in Austria via an Ernst Mach grant. program and to all the people In spring 2019, I participated in the who supported us throughout P&G CEO Challenge and represented our student life. KIMEP University at the EMEA final in Moscow in February 2019. During my first year, I interviewed Our team won this stage of the one of the senior managers at competition and later participated Procter & Gamble (P&G) Almaty. He in the European final in Istanbul, in told me that experience plays an April 2019. In summer 2019, I was important role in achieving success a teacher assistant for the FLEX and possessing only theoretical program, for which I went through a knowledge will not bring anyone training in Kiev, Ukraine. Moreover, close to their career goals. Therefore, in July 2019, I represented Tajikistan MAJOR: since that year, I have been putting at the Central Asia Youth Network INVESTMENT all my efforts and time on these two (CAYN) workshop organized by MANAGEMENT main aspects of my life. I completed OSCE, and also took part in an my first internship at Eskhata bank in alumni reunion in Issyk Kul. AWARDS: Tajikistan, which gave me a valuable PRESIDENT’S LIST FALL 2016 experience for the start of my In the fall 2019 semester, SPRING 2017 professional career. Following that, I I successfully completed a three- FALL 2017 worked in the Office of the President month internship at KPMG, and SPRING 2018 at KIMEP while simultaneously in November 2019, I represented SPRING 2019 working at Eurasia Insurance Central Asia at the Business Today Kazakhstan, where in a team of six, Conference in New York City. NAZIRAKHON HAS BEEN SELECTED we organized the 14th International TO PARTICIPATE IN THE Risk Management Conference. In Currently, I am about to start U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM summer 2018, I interned at a Dutch a new internship at P&G Moscow, IN WASHINGTON, DC Company, JYSK, in Dushanbe, after which I will make my first IN FALL 2020 Tajikistan through the U.S.-CAEF steps into adult life.

TAJIKISTAN

KONIBODOM “I see U.S.-CAEF as a transformative program.”

32 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 While growing up in a small town in Gavkharkhon Tajikistan, I always dreamed about studying abroad and having various Mamadzhanova international experiences. I was “Thanks to U.S.-CAEF, fortunate enough to have multiple opportunities to study abroad during four brilliant through different programs. In 2013, I years spent at KIMEP, became a finalist of the FLEX program and became an exchange student at I was able to realize Kingsburg High School in California, my dreams and USA. Later on, I was accepted to KIMEP University in Almaty with become the person the U.S.-CAEF scholarship. In my I am now. U.S.-CAEF junior year, I spent two semesters abroad – one in Sweden and the forever will be in my other in Austria. These study abroad heart and mind.” opportunities were challenging at first, but rewarding, as they enabled me to broaden my horizon, expand my knowledge and adapt to new environments. to take part in the International Throughout my university years thus Model United Nations – New Silk Way far, I have worked in two different conference on April 27-29, 2018. In microcredit depository organizations 2017 and 2018, I was accepted two MAJOR: in Tajikistan. I interned with the times to participate in the Central CORPORATE FINANCE Banking Products and Services Asian FLEX Alumni Workshop Department at MDO FINCA through (CAFAW) and received the CAFAW AWARDS: the U.S.-CAEF Regional Internship Fellow Grant 2017. This grant allowed PRESIDENT’S LIST Program in summer 2018. After me to realize the ‘Little Free Library’ FALL 2016 SPRING 2017 successfully completing my first project at KIMEP. These leadership FALL 2017 internship, my interest in the banking experiences helped me organize the SPRING 2018 FALL 2019 sector increased, and I was motivated Mars Case Championship in 2018 to take a second internship at MDO with the cooperation of the KIMEP GAVKHARKHON IMON International in my home city, Case Club. This year, I was elected as HAS BEEN SELECTED Konibodom. There, I was involved President of KIMEP Case Club and TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF INTERNATIONAL in the main activities and projects Vice President of Finance of the U.S.- INTERNSHIP PROGRAM of the Business and Operations CAEF Student Association. IN WASHINGTON, DC IN FALL 2020 Department. All the opportunities and experiences During my studies at KIMEP, I tried I have had during my four years at TAJIKISTAN to be active beyond just academic KIMEP wouldn’t have been possible life. In 2018, I became a finalist of the without U.S.-CAEF, and thanks to Central Asia Youth Network (CAYN) the program, I was able to realize my KONIBODOM seminar organized by OSCE in Nur dreams and become the person I am Sultan, which took place in Almaty, now. U.S.-CAEF will be in my heart Kazakhstan. Moreover, I was selected and mind forever.

us-caef.org 33 Indira The opportunities and experiences This year, I challenged myself to that U.S.-CAEF gave me and other become an employee at an audit Manjiyeva fellows, whom I proudly call my firm. After numerous tests and friends, are life-changing. The past interviews, I achieved my goal and several years have passed extremely received an offer to become an quickly, yet it feels like I am a totally intern at KPMG, one of the Big Four different person now than I was largest international accounting and before entering KIMEP; I am now a professional services firms. This is strong and independent professional, a huge stepping stone for my future with not only clear goals in mind, but career that was made available only also a structured step-by-step plan thanks to U.S.-CAEF. Despite being on how to achieve them. only the beginning of a new exciting chapter in my life, it already feels I was born and raised in Almaty, like I have everything it takes to fly Kazakhstan and studying at KIMEP through it happily and successfully. University has always been a dream of mine. In 2016 U.S.-CAEF made this I had a once-in-a-lifetime dream come true and changed my opportunity to spend the best life forever. It seems surreal to realize years of my life hand in hand with how far on this journey I have come outstanding young minds, sharing and how close the finishing line is. this unbelievable and unforgettable experience with each other, while Education is a universal key to being led by encouraging and all the doors in our lives. Here, at inspiring people around us. There KIMEP University, I received valuable were a lot of highs and some lows, knowledge and learned how to and that is what makes this learning MAJOR: apply it, while simultaneously curve so special. AUDITING shaping myself into the professional I so passionately wanted to become. U.S.-CAEF taught me to know my MINOR: During these four years of studies, worth. U.S.-CAEF showed me how to FINANCE I had an amazing opportunity stay strong. U.S.-CAEF made me the to expose myself to the real-life person I am today. AWARDS: business atmosphere, including PRESIDENT’S LIST participating in various case FALL 2016 competitions. SPRING 2017

KAZAKHSTAN “U.S.-CAEF taught me to know my worth. U.S.-CAEF showed me ALMATY how to stay strong. U.S.-CAEF made me the person I am today.”

34 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 I grew up in a small town in Sultan Eastern Kazakhstan. Since high school, I dreamed of studying “My experience at Molutov finance and economics at university. However, I went to a Kazakh-Turkish KIMEP has not only vocational school with a focus on Information Systems. I hoped provided me with to be able to eventually connect learning tools, but it also Information Systems with a finance degree. In 2016, my dream of gave me the confidence attending business school came true with the help of U.S.-CAEF. to follow my dreams.

University is not only about studying; I am grateful to U.S.-CAEF therefore, I was involved in many for these amazing years activities. During my freshman year, I served as Student Government and opportunities.” Deputy and Student Representative in the Budget Committee, where we organized social, community service and charity events on campus. Next, I was honored to be selected as one of the students to represent my country in the Central Asian Youth at Avon Kazakhstan, which is an Network seminar organized by OSCE international firm operating in the in 2016. We contributed to building self-care industry. I have gained a a dialogue and restoring trust and great deal of experience pertaining MAJOR: security in Central Asia. Furthermore, to finance. CORPORATE FINANCE I participated in the Model United Nations, which involved proposing I was also fortunate enough to visit AWARDS: solutions to the vital issues facing the U.S. during my junior year as an PRESIDENT’S LIST our region. During the summer of exchange student with the Global FALL 2016 2017, I taught English at a summer UGRAD program. I also attended SPRING 2017 school in a small town in Turkey Uppsala University in Sweden with FALL 2017 via the AIESEC Global Volunteer the Erasmus program. During my SPRING 2018 program, where I contributed to junior exchange year, I was able to FALL 2019 the UN’s Quality Education Goal. explore opportunities that helped me gain valuable knowledge. Regarding professional experience, I had exposure to investment My experience at KIMEP University KAZAKHSTAN banking with the leading investment has not only provided me with bank in Kazakhstan - Halyk Finance. learning tools, but it also gave me CHUNDZHA This was an excellent opportunity to the confidence to follow my dreams. work with analysts of the research I am grateful to U.S.-CAEF for these department and financial markets. amazing years and opportunities. Next, I had a summer internship

us-caef.org 35 Malikabonu Growing up in an educated family, of them. KIMEP also provided me I always knew that after high school with many opportunities to give Orifjanova I wanted to acquire a higher-level back through community service. education. However, looking at the Of the many different volunteering education level in Tajikistan, experiences I have had, the one that I realized that I wanted to go a little stands out the most was being an further than the rest of my family attaché as the head of the delegation and study abroad. U.S.-CAEF gave of the USA team at the Winter me this opportunity. University Games in 2017. I had the most amazing experience and I am a FLEX Program alumna from gained many skills, such as problem the 2015 cohort, and I received a USA solving, communicating with people high school diploma from Nemaha of different backgrounds, and making Central High School in Seneca, quick decisions. Kansas. After coming back from my exchange year, I was granted a few Another highlight of my time at different scholarships, from which KIMEP was participating in an I had to choose. When the U.S.- exchange program to Uppsala CAEF coordinator called, I hesitated University, Sweden in the spring about whether or not to accept the 2019 semester. This program helped scholarship, and she told me to think me to meet some incredible people it over. When I received a second call, and enhance my understanding of I chose to accept the scholarship and major problems in the world. attend KIMEP University, one of the most important decisions of my life. U.S.-CAEF gave me an opportunity to receive education at the highest MAJOR: Life at KIMEP has been incredible. level in Central Asia and create long- MARKETING COMMUNICATION During these years, I was a member lasting relationships. Now, in my last of Art Revolution Club, KIMEP Times, year at KIMEP, I am grateful for every AWARDS: KIMEP Fashion Industry, Buddies of high and low moment as they made PRESIDENT’S LIST International Students Club, Tree me who I am today. I am confident FALL 2016 Huggers, and I also helped with in my future and I’m ready to start FALL 2017 KIMEP English Language Theatre. changing the world by turning it into FALL 2019 Participating in all these clubs gave a more sustainable and healthier SPRING 2017 me such valuable knowledge that place to live. SPRING 2018 I would never regret being a part DEAN’S LIST FALL 2018 “I was given the greatest gift

TAJIKISTAN of an opportunity to have a better life and I’ll always be repaying KHUJAND U.S.-CAEF in any way I can.”

36 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “I am very thankful to U.S.-CAEF for all the Maksud opportunities it has provided and for where I am Rahimov right now. I am humbled to say that this is all just the beginning of something great.”

As John Locke once said: “Education education you’ve dreamed of and begins the gentleman, but reading, a student life you will never forget. good company and reflection must finish him.” I am a person who takes During these years at KIMEP, I have advantage of opportunities when it managed to actively participate in comes to education and valuable life various academic and non-acade- experiences. Since my childhood, I mic events. I was a member of wanted to see the world and obtain Buddies of International Students, the best education I could afford. In Tree Huggers and several charity 2012, I made my first step towards organizations at KIMEP. In the spring new, life-changing opportunities 2018 semester, I started my first by applying for the FLEX Program, internship at the U.S. Consulate and I got accepted. As a result, I in Almaty in the Commercial spent the 2013-2014 academic year Service Department. Later that I in Montesano, Washington, USA. year I applied for the Regional The program had a huge impact on Internship Program organized by where I am right now and where I U.S.-CAEF in Tajikistan, and in the want to be in upcoming years. summer of 2018, I interned at RSM MAJOR: Tajikistan in the consulting and CORPORATE After completing the FLEX audit departments. In the fall 2018 FINANCE program, I came back to Tajikistan semester, I also worked as an office and completed my remaining two assistant in the International Office MINOR: years of high school. During those at KIMEP University. From each of MANAGEMENT two years, I constantly sought out those experiences, I developed new opportunities to continue my many interpersonal and professional AWARDS: education abroad. Deciding among skills in finance and management. DEAN’S LIST four different universities in different In January of 2019, I applied for an FALL 2018 countries, United States and Russia internship at EVOLET Healthcare, among them, I chose KIMEP because and later in May, I was offered of all the benefits and opportunities a full-time job in the business the U.S.-CAEF scholarship development department, where would provide. I currently work as manager. TAJIKISTAN

U.S.-CAEF gave me more than I am very thankful to U.S.-CAEF for PANJAKENT I expected. I appreciate and value all the opportunities it has provided being a part of this close-knit and for where I am right now. I am community, which gives tremendous humbled to say that this is all just opportunities to acquire the the beginning of something great.

us-caef.org 37 Meylis Four words come to my mind when to the program created a platform I think of the U.S.-CAEF Program: for me to gain a strong academic Rahmanov education, support, life changer. background and to prepare myself for a professional career. Studying Managing money has been an at KIMEP allowed me not only to interest of mine since I was 13, when earn a degree in finance and achieve I first explored the world of financial the dream I have had since I was 13, derivatives and naively opened a but also to gain diverse knowledge demo-account on a trading platform through participating in three to trade options on currencies with semesters of academic exchange. no clue about how such financial instruments worked. I was just being In spring 2018, I spent a semester a curious child. But then, curiosity studying finance courses at Fairleigh turned into something bigger. Dickinson University in New Jersey, USA, one of 182 AACSB-accredited My journey of self-discovery and business schools in the USA. In shaping my professional goals began the fall semester of 2018, I had when I became a finalist of the Future the privilege of doing a year-long Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX) academic exchange at the University back in 2014. This life-changing of Applied Sciences in Krems, program gave me an opportunity to Republic of Austria. While studying in do an academic exchange at a high Austria, I was lectured by employees school in Vancouver, Washington, of Raiffeisen Bank AG and Microsoft USA. The FLEX Program also gave me Corporation, and had a chance an opportunity to live in the country to visit the Vienna Stock Exchange with the strongest banking system and the headquarters of Raiffeisen MAJOR: in the world, which consequently Bank AG. INVESTMENT influenced my decision about the MANAGEMENT industry in which I want to work in Both studying at KIMEP and the future, investment banking. participating in my academic MINOR: exchange experiences were of MARKETING The FLEX Program helped me to plan. great significance for my academic AWARDS: The U.S.-CAEF Fellowship Program growth, but they would not have PRESIDENT’S LIST has helped me to act. In 2016, with been possible if it were not for the FALL 2016 generous support from the U.S.-CAEF U.S.-CAEF Fellowship Program, SPRING 2017 Program, I received a chance to study which I will always appreciate for FALL 2017 at KIMEP University. My acceptance being supporters of my dream.

TURKMENISTAN “If professional success is a prize in a vault and TURKMENABAT a university degree is the lock, then, for me, the U.S.-CAEF Program is the key to the lock and to kickstarting my professional path.”

38 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 “U.S.-CAEF is my biggest investor, which Paluan trusted and gave me an opportunity Rimov to reveal my full potential.”

Knowledge is the most valuable students from Kazakhstan and the asset to anyone today. Education CIS participated. I got second place is the tool to gain that knowledge. and as part of my prize, I was offered U.S.-CAEF allowed me to use that a paid internship in the leading tool to the fullest extent. I am very investment company, Freedom grateful for this opportunity and I Finance. In 2019, I participated will not let down those people who with my friends in the international trusted me! trading competitions organized by Astana International Financial I was born and grew up in Centre, Exante (a broker in Russia) Shymkent, Kazakhstan living in an and Refinitiv (Thomson Reuter’s ordinary district. For us, studying subsidiary). We won 1st place and in Almaty, and especially at KIMEP, I got an offer from the SkyBridge was a dream. However, U.S.-CAEF Capital investment bank and Smart made me and my family’s dreams Invest hedge fund. While these were come true. My family and I were wonderful offers, I had to reject them proud and very happy that I was because starting from October 2018 accepted to KIMEP with the U.S.- until April 2019, I was participating CAEF scholarship. I chose to study in a competition for a summer accounting and audit. This area is internship position with the Astana MAJOR: very interesting for me and I hope International Financial Centre. After AUDITING to further expand my knowledge the 6-month competition, I got in this field throughout my career. an offer for a summer internship AWARDS: position in the Business Partnership PRESIDENT’S LIST These four years of studying at Department of Astana International FALL 2017 KIMEP totally changed my mind Financial Centre. SPRING 2018 SPRING 2019 and opened my eyes to the world. While studying, I found out that This year I got an offer from a DEAN’S LIST I am interested in increasing my Big 4 company in the auditing FALL 2016 professional skills in finance and department, where I plan to start accounting. I participated in different my career. I achieved these things competitions among students and gained useful knowledge from all over Kazakhstan and the only because in 2016, U.S.-CAEF KAZAKHSTAN Commonwealth of Independent decided to give me chance and States (CIS). One of them was a offer me a scholarship. I am sure trading competition organized by that the knowledge and experience SHYMKENT the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange I got from KIMEP will be useful in 2018, where more than 400 throughout my entire career.

us-caef.org 39 Karina I grew up in Tashkent, the capital festival, where we won the prize of Uzbekistan, dreaming about in the special nomination of the Tadjieva studying at a university such as competition among video bloggers KIMEP. Without a doubt, the U.S.- of Kazakhstan. This experience CAEF scholarship played a key role allowed me to use my knowledge in my life and helped me achieve in marketing in practice. my educational dreams and goals. With the help of the financial aid Besides volunteering for KIMEP awarded to me, I was able to access University events, I also served a bachelor’s degree and now I am as a volunteer in some external doing my best to become a highly events such as the business qualified specialist in the sphere exhibition “Passage to Prosperity of marketing. Central Asia: New Trade Horizons with Afghanistan,” funded by Thanks to the scholarship, I was USAID and supported by the able to spend more time on my government of Afghanistan. In 2018 studies and extracurricular activities I also participated in Central Asian and less time worrying about Beauty Expo, which is a Business my finances. In addition, I could to Business exhibition where the explore my interests deeply and manufacturers can find the potential create broader perspectives for my distributors in Kazakhstan. Company future. Thus, I became a member representatives from 15 countries of KIMEP English Language Theatre were invited and I was honored to (KELT) during the academic period volunteer as a translator for a self- 2017-2018, and I realized how I care cosmetics producer from MAJOR: could express myself by means Dubai. Such experiences have MARKETING of acting on stage and become helped to expand my network, COMMUNICATION more involved in the world of art. which will be beneficial for finding I participated in two enormous career opportunities after graduation. AWARDS: plays as an actress in the ‘Journey Furthermore, all of the opportunities DEAN’S LIST to Home’ production in 2017 and mentioned were possible with the SPRING 2019 in the ‘Harvey’ production in 2018. help of the U.S.-CAEF. The opportunity to work with professional and amateur actors I understand that my educational helped me to meet new people with pursuits would not be possible whom I share similar interests and without the support from the improve my social skills as a result. scholarship and I am very thankful Several of us, members of KELT, also for the generous gift from U.S.-CAEF UZBEKISTAN formed a team and participated to build the future that I always in the annual Beeline Video Baiga dreamed of. TASHKENT

“U.S.-CAEF helped me to realize who I am and who I want to become”.

40 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020

THE FOUNDATION’S INTERN FELLOWSHIPS

ENTERPRISE INTERN FELLOWSHIPS A total of 14 graduating seniors The Foundation is grateful to took part in the summer 2018 the companies in the Kyrgyz Through the Enterprise Intern Fellowships, the Foundation seeks U.S.-CAEF Regional Internship Republic and Tajikistan that to afford its Student Fellows the opportunity to gain (1) practical Program. Eight fellows hosted the Enterprise Interns work experience within Central Asia early in their university careers interned in companies in in the summer of 2018: through our Regional Summer Internship Program and (2) a post- Bishkek, and six in Dushanbe: graduate educational, vocational and cultural experience in the United States or other countries that serve as positive examples Uulzhan Aitnazarova BDO International of democratic open-market economies through the International Limited Capstone Internship Program. Atai Amanatov Beeline Saira Duishonbekova Crowe Horwath ACG Farzona Khaidarova Coca-Cola Nazirakhon Kholturaeva Bishkek Bottlers

Suhailo Mamadniyozova Coca-Cola Tajikistan Bottlers Gavkharkhon Mamadzhanova FINCA Tajikistan Olga Pykhova Gazprom Oil Asia REGIONAL SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Maksud Rahimov JYSK Tajikistan Since 2009, the Foundation has operated the Regional Summer Atobek Rakhimshoev Internship Program, which is made available on a competitive basis to a limited number of Student Fellows completing their second year Shaislam Shabiev Olive Hotel of university study. Both AUCA and KIMEP University require their business and economics students to undertake a formal internship Sevara Tadzhibaeva World Class towards the end of their third year of study. The Foundation’s Summer Fitness Center Regional Internship Program, which includes orientation and support Meerim Zhanybek kyzy for the interns, is intended as an opportunity for participants to Quasar Advertising become familiar with the business environment, enhance their skills and gain practical experience that will help them make informed Sezim Zhenishbekova choices about their degree-required internships in the following year. RSM Tajikistan

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. Nine outstanding Student Fellows from the graduating class have been selected to take part in the International Capstone Internship Program in fall 2020: Uulzhan Aitnazarova, Farzona Khaidarova, Olga Pykhova, Sevara Tadzhibaeva, and Sezim Zhenishbekova from AUCA, and Didorali Anoyatbekov, Bayan Bekbas, Nazirakhon Kholturaeva, and Gavkharkhon Mamadzhanova 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.

42 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020 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 286. 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 2, KPMG, BISHKEK

Zulfiya Urunova Azatbek Ismailov Jahongir Rahimov PRESIDENT, KIMEP CHAPTER VP FOR OUTREACH, AUCA VP FOR OUTREACH, KIMEP CHAPTER IMPLEMENTATION MANAGER, CONSULTANT, DEAL ADVISORY FINANCIAL CONSULTANT RELOG, ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN DEPARTMENT, KPMG, ALMATY KPMG, ALMATY

The Association hopes that the graduating class of 2020 will join in their efforts to establish an important platform for Guliza Almazbek kyzy Amina Iqbolzoda Anisa Hojieva communication and VP FOR PROFESSIONAL VP FOR PROFESSIONAL REGIONAL ALUMNI cooperation between all DEVELOPMENT, AUCA CHAPTER DEVELOPMENT, KIMEP CHAPTER COORDINATOR, TAJIKISTAN MARKETING SPECIALIST, FINANCIAL ANALYST, EBRD, ALMATY EDUCATIONUSA ADVISER, program alumni, current COCA-COLA BOTTLERS BISHKEK AMERICAN COUNCILS, DUSHANBE 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 spirit and Karina Kussainova Bahtiyar Jalilov Moldir Kussainova the economic prosperity REGIONAL ALUMNI STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR, TURKMENISTAN ADVISOR, AUCA CUSTOMER ADVISOR, KIMEP CHAPTER of Central Asia. FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, EXPERIENCE ASSOCIATE, TORONTO GROWTH MARKETING TRIBALANDS, ASHGABAT DOMINION BANK, TORONTO, CANADA MANAGER, PETREL.AI

uscaef.org 43

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

AUDITORS

CUMMINGS, LAMONT & MCNAMEE, P.A.

46 U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2020

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 protected] [email protected] americancouncils.org us-caef.org