In the vibrant city of Almaty, a remarkable narrative unfolds as Karlygash Omarova intertwines sustainability, circularity, and the revitalization of Kazakh traditions through her headwear brand, "Taicara." Her entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the transformative power of the circular economy, where sustainable practices are seamlessly interwoven with cultural heritage.
Since February 2021, Karlygash Omarova has embarked on a mission to breathe new life into traditional Kazakh headwear through her brand, "Taicara." For Karlygash, this venture is a testament to the enduring wisdom of her ancestors, a celebration of their legacy in a world yearning for mindful practices.
Drawing inspiration from Taicara, the daughter of a Kazakh Khan who elegantly merged Kazakh and European styles, Karlygash honors her heritage by infusing her hat designs with elements from both cultures. Rooted in tradition yet embracing innovation, her creations embody the essence of circularity, where sustainability becomes intertwined with the fabric of Kazakh identity.
Driven by a deep commitment to the planet, Karlygash has meticulously redesigned her manufacturing process, ensuring it adheres to the principles of the circular economy. Guided by ecological consciousness, she has replaced disposable materials with reusable plastic forms.
Karlygash's journey as a sustainable entrepreneur began with a moment of realization during the pandemic-induced quarantine of 2020. Reflecting on her childhood experiences working with wool alongside her grandmother, and inspired by the advanced craftmanship she witnessed abroad, she recognized the untapped potential of traditional Kazakh practices. Karlygash embarked on a path of self-learning, seeking guidance from international specialists and consulting material suppliers. In 2021, she fearlessly established her own workshop, supported wholeheartedly by her loved ones, including her husband.
The impact of Karlygash's sustainable entrepreneurship has not gone unnoticed. In March 2022, she triumphed in a competition for local brands, securing a grant from Jusan Bank and Almaty Pop Up Store. The grant, totaling one million tenge, served as a catalyst for Taicara's growth, enabling Karlygash to acquire sustainable materials for her new collection. This recognition affirms the power of circularity and reinforces Karlygash's dedication to sustainable practices within the fashion industry.
As she continues her journey, Karlygash envisions a future where talented Kazakh designers receive the necessary support to gain global recognition. Advocating for financial assistance, international exhibition opportunities, and the establishment of creative clusters, she strives to nurture a flourishing ecosystem that encourages collaboration and innovation. Through her brand, Karlygash showcases how sustainable entrepreneurship rooted in Kazakh traditions can flourish, resonating globally and inspiring others to embrace the circular economy.
Karlygash Omarova's story weaves together the threads of sustainability and Kazakh traditions. As she stitches the past and present together, she leaves her mark on the fashion industry, reminding us that sustainable entrepreneurship is not just a business model—it is a transformative pathway towards a future where traditions thrive, nature is protected, and circularity becomes normal practice.
Karlygash Omarova
