Last year, the Great Hall at KIMEP University was transformed into a vision of mythology. Athena, Dionis, Aphrodite, and other Greek Goddesses appeared on stage in flowing gowns and golden accents. It was an evening of elegance, grace, and fierce competition. But by the time the final name was called, only one stood above the rest — Eleonora Khan, a third-year student, was crowned Miss KIMEP 2024.
Now, a new group of contestants is stepping into the spotlight, ready to take on the challenges that come with the title. But this year, the competition comes with an extra twist — Miss KIMEP is stepping beyond the university campus for the first time in history.
With months of preparation, eight contestants, and just one crown at stake, the excitement is reaching its peak.
The Show: A Tradition of Glamour and Talent
Miss KIMEP is more than just a beauty pageant — it’s a test of confidence, talent, and perseverance. Since its launch in 2016, the competition has become one of the university’s most highly anticipated events. Contestants go through multiple rounds, each designed to test different aspects of their confidence and abilities. The runway walk showcases their poise, elegance, and stage presence, requiring them to master smooth movements and graceful posture.
The talent performance allows participants to highlight their strengths through acting, vocal performances, acrobatics, or other creative showcases. Finally, the public speaking and Q&A segment challenges contestants to articulate their thoughts on various topics, ranging from personal ambitions to societal issues, demonstrating their intelligence and ability to think on their feet.
It’s a test of how well each participant can perform under pressure while maintaining elegance and composure.
This year’s venue change was one of the biggest challenges for the organizing team. The Great Hall at KIMEP, the traditional stage for Miss KIMEP, is undergoing renovations, forcing the event to relocate.
“At first, it was hard to find the perfect location,” said Aisha Karatayeva, the head of the KIMEP Fashion Industry. “We needed a venue that could accommodate our vision and fit our budget. There were a lot of negotiations ongoing, and the place will be revealed soon”
Securing the venue was just one of the many struggles the KIMEP Fashion Industry had to overcome. The team initially requested 3,000,000 tenge for the budget, but after multiple attempts, the Budget Committee approved 2,732,000 tenge. This amount covers essential expenses like stage lighting, professional photography, promotional materials, and coaching for the contestants.
“We also rely on ticket sales to cover smaller costs—things like banners, equipment rentals, and photo studios,” Karatayeva said. “Thankfully, we have long-term partnerships with sponsors like Goltsman modeling agency and various beauty brands.”
The Training: Behind the Scenes of Miss KIMEP
The weeks leading up to Miss KIMEP are a grueling mix of training, rehearsals, and personal preparation for the contestants. It is not just about looking good on stage. It requires hours of practice to master choreography, stage presence, and public speaking.
“The preparation process has been intense but really fun,” said Altynay Alikanova, a second-year journalism student. “We have a lot of rehearsals, dancing, practicing our walks, working on stage presence, and just improving in every way possible. It takes a lot of time and energy, but I enjoy every moment of it because it pushes me to become better.”
A key part of the training is learning to perform under pressure. Contestants must perfect their walks, learn to pose naturally, and coordinate their performances with music and lighting.
“I train a lot physically, trying to improve my posture, learn how to move correctly, and express myself better,” said Ulpan Kazykken, a fourth-year student. “Another crucial aspect is preparing for interviews and public speaking because confident communication is a key component of the competition.”
But for many contestants, the biggest challenge isn’t the rehearsals. It’s the time management. Balancing Miss KIMEP preparations with academic responsibilities, especially during midterm season, can be overwhelming
“The hardest part is working with people. Everyone has their own life and priorities,” said Aisulu Alishpanova, a first-year finance student. “It’s tough to balance schedules so that we neither exhaust the team nor neglect the hard work required.”
The competition can also be challenging financially. Contestants must invest in outfits, makeup, and styling. Some choose budget-friendly options, while others go all out with professional stylists.
“I haven’t calculated the exact amount yet, but I’m making sure to plan everything carefully,” Alikanova said. “If needed, I’ll go va-bank.”
Why They Compete: The Motivation Behind Miss KIMEP
Each contestant has her reason for entering Miss KIMEP. It is not always about winning, but rather being part of it. For some, it’s a childhood dream. For others, it’s about gaining confidence, making new friends, or testing personal limits.
“I remember when I was 17, in my senior year of high school, I saw my sister’s friend competing at Miss KIMEP,” Alikanova said. “I was so inspired that I promised myself that I will participate during my second year. I wanted to experience the same excitement and even more. That’s why I’m here.”
Some contestants make the decision spontaneously.
“Honestly, I was watching last year’s Miss KIMEP at 4 a.m. with my friends, and in the moment, I thought—why should I wait? Why not just go for it?” said Assilay Shakenova, a first-year international relations student.
But for all of them, the journey is about more than just the crown.
“For me, MISS KIMEP is a path that opens up new horizons and opportunities,” said Maria Nikforova, a second-year finance student.
The Freshman Factor: Can a First-Year Win?
For the past three years, no freshman has won Miss KIMEP. Older students with more experience and a stronger stage presence dominate the competition.
This year, however, some first-year contestants are determined to change that.
“Let’s see, can a freshman become Miss KIMEP,” said Sabina Kozhakaeva, a management student.
For contestants like Shakenova, the challenge of competing against older students only adds to the excitement.
“My dedicated team is working so hard for me that they help me forget all my worries,” she said. “Seeing their effort and emotions makes me forget about all my concerns.”
The Final Countdown
As the competition date approaches, the pressure intensifies. The contestants have spent one month preparing, fine-tuning their performances, and working on their confidence.
“If I win, it would be a huge achievement for me,” said Alikanova. “More than just the title, it’s about proving to myself that I can do anything I set my mind to.”
As the lights dim April 17, the music starts, and the first contestant steps onto the stage, one thing is certain—a new Miss KIMEP will be crowned, and a new story will begin.