In the intricate game of life, Nazira Kurmasheva, a remarkable entrepreneur from Almaty, has defied the odds and championed the cause of inclusivity through the realm of chess. Born into a large family in the town of Tulkibas, Nazira's journey has been marked by the interplay of light and darkness, reminiscent of the contrasting squares on a chessboard.
Nazira's indomitable spirit shone through even in her early years, despite the challenges she faced with her vision. As a young girl, she discovered her love for chess, finding solace and inspiration within the strategic movements of the pieces. However, life's adversities struck her path, and she encountered dishonesty, crises, and profound challenges. At one point, her clothing business faltered due to the deceitful actions of those closest to her, leaving her with no choice but to return to her parents' home with her children and no financial security.
But Nazira's spirit could not be extinguished and she sought opportunities for personal and professional growth. While working at the National Library of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Almaty and pursuing a degree in jurisprudence, she realized the need to forge her own path. Learning about grants available for aspiring entrepreneurs, Nazira reflected deeply on her circumstances. Despite being in her forties, with her own disability and a lack of stable housing, she held onto a resolute belief in herself and her ability to bring her vision to fruition.
Nazira started a transformative journey of self-discovery and business development, centering her efforts around chess and the traditional Kazakh board game, togyzkumalak. Faced with skepticism and doubts from those around her, Nazira remained steadfast in her determination, stating, "Everyone around me told me that nothing would work out, but I felt that I would complete this project. If I start, then I go to the end." With a two-day training program, she honed her entrepreneurial skills, defended her project, and secured the funding needed to purchase the necessary equipment.
Together with her husband, Nazira established the "Meirimdi El" society for the disabled, dedicated to the development of intellectual games. Their business expanded beyond chess boards to include chess watches, talking watches for the blind, and walking sticks for the visually impaired, sourced from Russia and China. They engaged in public procurement, utilized the power of Instagram for sales, and even exported their products to China, Mongolia, and the Altai Territory.
The renowned German disability organization, Deutsches Blindenhilfswerk paid the attention to "Meirimdi El" community on one of the togyzkumalak tournaments. Intrigued by the concept and potential impact of the community, the Deutsches Blindenhilfswerk presented balls for the game “Goalball” to develop the game among blind people in Kazakhstan. Step by step, rule by rule, "Meirimdi El" led by Nazira started implementation of Goalball among the Kazakhstani community with disabilities.
Nazira acknowledged that Goalball was not a familiar game for her. Despite all financial and organizational challenges, together with her husband, they created the Kazakhstan Goalball Federation. Later, the first Goalball teams emerged in Almaty, Shymkent, Karaganda, and Astana. Now, Goalball championships become a regular sport event, and various teams from Taraz, Shymkent, Semey, Atyrau, Karaganda, East and West Kazakhstan, Almaty and Almaty region demonstrates their willing to participate on Goalballl championship.
Through the game of chess, Nazira Kurmasheva has dismantled barriers, shattered misconceptions, and paved the way for inclusive entrepreneurship in Kazakhstan. With each move she makes, Nazira continues to shape a world where every individual, regardless of their abilities, is given a chance to shine and contribute to the rich tapestry of human potential.
In the realm of chess, where each piece holds its unique value and significance, Nazira reminds us that our differences are our greatest strengths. Nazira Kurmasheva's journey teaches us that inclusivity is the ultimate game-changer in entrepreneurship. Embrace diversity, empower others, and together, let's checkmate barriers.
Nazira Kurmasheva
