Hailing from Almaty, Ulpan Sapak is a tenacious entrepreneur who has defied societal limitations to create her own path, empowering herself and inspiring others along the way.
Ulpan's journey began in the serene village of Karazhota, nestled in the Almaty region. From a young age, she faced adversity, born with a cleft lip she was subjected to taunts from her peers. But the love and support of her mother became her guiding light, fostering a spirit of confidence within her. However, fate dealt her an unexpected blow in the seventh grade when she fell ill with the flu. The illness left her with limited mobility, confined to a wheelchair. Amidst the challenges that followed, Ulpan's indomitable spirit remained unyielding.
Determined to rewrite her narrative, Ulpan sought opportunities for growth and connection. It was during this search that she encountered the transformative power of IteachMe, a social enterprise that empowers individuals with disabilities to pursue education and employment. Enrolling in the program, Ulpan became one of its first graduates in Motion Design. Through IteachMe, she not only honed her technical skills but also found a supportive community that fueled her self-esteem and confidence. Buoyed by her newfound belief in herself, Ulpan ventured forth to establish her own printing house.
Ulpan's journey highlights the profound impact of self-esteem on both individuals with disabilities and women entrepreneurs. In a society that often undermines their worth, many face a lack of self-confidence that hinders their progress. Ulpan, however, defied these limitations, embracing personal growth and transformation. As she aptly declares, "Let's not skip life, let's move forward!" Her journey serves as an inspiration for all those who have been held back by self-doubt, encouraging them to embrace their potential and strive for greatness.
Ulpan's path was not without its share of challenges and prejudices. Some of her relatives responded with indifference, while others displayed an overprotective attitude, underestimating her capabilities. Despite these obstacles, Ulpan remained resolute, refusing to let societal perceptions define her worth. She firmly believes that those with disabilities should not be objects of pity but rather champions of their own destinies.
With her own printing company now established, Ulpan has emerged as a beacon of empowerment. Equipped with the necessary tools and equipment, she offers a range of products, from wedding invitations to intricately designed candy boxes for Kazakh celebrations. Her entrepreneurial spirit is matched only by her vision for the future. Ulpan aims to expand her printing center and increase production capabilities, leaving an indelible mark on the business landscape.
In her quest to uplift others, Ulpan has returned to IteachMe, leveraging her wealth of experience, knowledge, and understanding to support individuals with disabilities in their journey toward greater self-esteem. Through her own life, she strives to break the barriers that hinder inclusivity, proving that those with disabilities have the power to change lives and be valuable contributors to society. Her compassionate goals revolve around enabling social integration and fostering a sense of belonging for all.
Ulpan Sapak
