On December 12, 2024, Astana hosted the forum "EmpowerHER: Support for Gender Equality and Professional Opportunities for Women", organized by the Nazarbayev University Entrepreneurship Research Center (NURCE) at USAID within the framework of the Trade in Central Asia program. The event was aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs in the transport and logistics sectors, providing them with a platform to discuss unique challenges, share resources and establish professional ties.
The First Vice-Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Aizhan Bizhanova, made a welcoming speech, emphasizing the importance of women in the economic development of the country. She noted that the forum focuses on strategically important topics such as transport logistics and trade and logistics centers, and expressed confidence that the discussions at the event will make a real contribution to strengthening Kazakhstan's position as a key hub of regional trade and cooperation.
The Head of State, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has repeatedly stressed that the development of transport and logistics infrastructure is the key to sustainable growth and strengthening of Kazakhstan's international relations. In this regard, Aizhan Bizhanov informed that strategic goals are being actively implemented in the country: five industrial trade and logistics complexes are being created at key points, which will increase export volumes and open up new opportunities for entrepreneurs.
One of the key moments of the forum was the presentation of the book "Despite the limitations: 33 stories of women entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan". The publication tells about the path of 33 women entrepreneurs from various regions and industries of Kazakhstan, emphasizing their innovative approach to leadership and their ability to overcome social constraints. The stories span sectors such as transportation, agriculture, IT, manufacturing, and healthcare, demonstrating how these women turn challenges into opportunities for growth and cultural change.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mti/press/news/details/903130