Women breaking patriarchal barriers.
They are changing social norms and making history, creating new opportunities for future generations, speakers said during a recent TEDx talk at KIMEP University.
“This year, we decided to choose a provocative topic,” said vice president of TEDxKIMEP Aisha Maukeyeva. “All the speakers are very strong and well-prepared. The invited guests were carefully considered and immediately agreed, as our organization has an official TED license.”
- Among the participants are well-known activists, psychologists, and entrepreneurs, such as: Madina Almukhambetova, who discussed invalidation.
- Dillyara Dosmakova, a business leader, speaking about women’s partnership and the importance of supporting each other in a competitive environment.
- Sadina Osmanova, founder of UNIDEM courses.
Women in Kazakhstan, who are opening new horizons every day, became one of the most discussed topics at the event. Speakers such as Dosmakova and Kamilla Suleimenova shared how they manage to break stereotypes and carve their way in traditionally male-dominated fields.
The topic of women’s leadership through the lens of empathy and willpower was addressed in a separate panel, where not only professional achievements but also personal qualities necessary for successful leadership were discussed. Special attention was given to the strong role of women in business, where it is important not only to achieve success but also to inspire others.
Speaker Dillyara Dosmakova takes the stage with poise and purpose, while the panel of judges
listens closely to each impactful word. (Photo by Talgat Santay)
“I like that KIMEP has events dedicated to feminism and the strength of women. All the topics are very relevant to us: they talked about careers, real stories, education, and the role of women that need to be normalized in society. Such events should be held more often. Until we discuss this, no changes will happen.” said Polina Mamina, who attended the event.
It wasn’t just women talking about women. Islam Berlikozha and Daniil Lithosh discussed feminism statistically and discussing women in politics who changed the course of history.
“Since childhood, I dreamed of being a politician and watched so many speeches by Obama, Churchill, and Thatcher, so it was easy for me to present my idea,” said Berlinkozha. “I want people to understand that in conditions of fierce competition, women can be stronger and are ready for it. In our time, future women leaders in politics are growing up, who will still make their voices heard in the world.”
“I am part of the production section, which is responsible for selecting speakers and coordinating them,” said Aitoly Abdizhapparova, the event host. “Despite the fact that many speakers have experience in giving speeches, we hold auditions and select them. The selection process begins with the candidates parodying a TED Talk and presenting their topic, which must be relevant and worthy.”
Members engaged in lively discussion of the issues raised in the panels. Irrespective of field of expertise, all agreed that creating helping communities is just as crucial as breaking down barriers.
“(We) encourage our students to participate in such events and be contributors of knowledge, intellectual capacity,” said Professor Maganat Shegebayev, serving as one of the judges at the event.”We have witnessed remarkable academic and professional development for our students. This is also a great opportunity for networking and making new valuable connections.”
The jury, which included professors, evaluated the participants’ speeches and included the results of the audience vote. The winner among the students, who received the title of ‘Best Speaker’ for an impressive performance on overcoming stereotypes, was Nazym Zhalmukhambet, who shared her personal story about true leadership.
Nazym Zhalmukhambet celebrates her well-earned first place at TEDxKIMEP with radiant
pride, holding her trophy high while surrounded by fellow speakers and organizers. (Photo by Talgat Santay)
“I am glad that people see and understand that women are not vulnerable creatures that just create beauty,” said Gulim Zhorakhan. “They are capable of making their own path. Every speaker has its own perspective on how they see the power of women, but one of the speakers that I like the most is Nazym. I was very inspired by her story about true leadership.”