In the vibrant city of Konaev, Kazakhstan, a remarkable story unfolded. Dinara Kuzhagaliyeva’s personal life journey took an unexpected turn that would lead her to make a mark in the male-dominated construction sector.
Dinara's journey began with her husband, a visionary and the driving force behind Turksib LLP, a prominent construction company in the Almaty region. For years, Dinara stood beside him, supporting his ventures and dreams. However, tragedy struck when her beloved husband died from Covid-19 in 2021.
Left with the weight of unfinished projects and the dreams of countless homebuyers resting on her shoulders, Dinara found herself at a crossroads. The choice was clear: succumb to the overwhelming challenges or summon the courage to step into the construction world and carry her husband's legacy forward.
"Closing the company was never an option for me," Dinara recalls. "I knew that people were waiting for their homes, and they had invested all their savings. I couldn't let them down."
With resolve, Dinara immersed herself in the intricacies of the construction industry. She tirelessly sought knowledge, studying blueprints, delving into building codes, and familiarizing herself with the latest construction methodologies. From the foundations to the finishing touches, Dinara left no stone unturned in her quest to understand every aspect of the trade.
"I was determined to learn and master every aspect of the construction process," Dinara shares. "I wanted to honor my husband's legacy and prove that a woman can excel in this male-dominated field."
Yet, her journey was not without challenges. As a woman stepping into a domain predominantly occupied by men, Dinara faced deep-rooted stereotypes and biases. Many doubted her capabilities and questioned her authority, believing that construction was not a place for women. But Dinara remained undeterred. She understood that true progress required breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms.
"No one in the construction industry takes women seriously," Dinara reveals. "But I am here to change that perception. I want to show that women have a rightful place in this sector and can excel in every aspect of the construction process."
Armed with expertise, passion, and a strong work ethic, Dinara proved her worth on the construction sites. She became a fixture, donning a hard hat and steel-toed boots, leading by example. Through her meticulous attention to detail and hands-on approach, Dinara earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and crew.
"Every morning, I come to the construction site first and plan the whole day with my team," Dinara states. "I want to show them that I am fully committed to the work and that together, we can achieve greatness."
Beyond the construction sites, Dinara's impact extended to the broader industry. She recognized the power of diversity and inclusion, and the need for fresh perspectives in shaping the future of construction.
"We need more women in the construction sector," Dinara emphasizes. "Women bring unique insights, attention to detail, and a caring approach that can enhance the quality of our projects. By embracing diversity, we can create better living spaces for everyone."
As Dinara continues to lead Turksib LLP, her legacy reverberates through the construction industry and beyond. She has become a symbol of empowerment and an advocate for gender equality in the workplace.
"I want to inspire other women to follow their dreams and overcome the obstacles in their path," Dinara affirms. "We have the power to shape industries, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive future."
Dinara Kuzhagaliyev
