"As a mom on maternity leave with a second child, I decided to diversify my everyday life with an interesting hobby," Rufinat Orynbaeva recalled. "As a little girl next to my grandmother, I learned how to hold needles and hooks and knit different small things."
Amidst the chaos of caring for her young children, Rufinat noticed a growing trend—coarse yarn made from sliced knitwear. Intrigued by this new material, she delved into market research and sought inspiration from successful case studies. House slippers caught her eye as an interesting venture to explore, and she embarked on her knitting journey.
"My friend and I were knitting together, purely for inspiration, there were no special sales," Rufinat shared. She longed to share her slippers with a wider audience, and it took her some time to gather the courage to approach Dinara Satzhan. "And one evening I wrote to her, and she turned out to be very friendly and open".
The first meeting between Rufinat and Dinara, a renowned journalist, broadcaster, and entrepreneur with a large social media platform, exceeded Rufinat's expectations. "She even offered not only to advertise them, but even to sell them in her boutique," Rufinat recalled with excitement. Dinara's genuine support and approachability left an indelible impression on Rufinat.
Their collaboration took flight, and the sale of Rufinat's slippers in Dinara Satzhan's store became a reality. "We set about preparing the first batch, and that's how we launched the sale of slippers at Dinara Satzhan's store without even planning it," Rufinat recounted gratefully. Dinara's support became instrumental in introducing Rufinat's hand-knit slippers to a wider audience, catapulting her business to new heights.
This remarkable tale showcases the power of sisterhood—the support, mentorship, and collaboration that can drive women entrepreneurs to achieve greatness. Dinara Satzhan's willingness to extend a helping hand to a fellow woman in business is a testament to the extraordinary bonds that Kazakhstani women forge. Despite Dinara's fame and success, she remained approachable and friendly, embracing the spirit of unity that defines the sisterhood.
Rufinat's journey reflects the broader experience of women entrepreneurs in Kazakhstan. It is a story of seizing opportunities, breaking free from societal norms, and finding personal fulfillment through entrepreneurship. Rufinat's desire for more freedom, financial stability, and personal growth led her to embark on this path, and she stands as an inspiration to others who yearn for a similar journey.
Rufinat's journey highlights the interconnectedness and supportive nature of women entrepreneurs in Kazakhstan. Through her encounter with Dinara Satzhan, Rufinat not only gained exposure and sales but also discovered the transformative power of solidarity and mutual encouragement. Dinara's support opened doors to new clients and amplified Rufinat's impact, proving that together, women can accomplish far more than they ever could alone.
As Rufinat reflects on her own journey, she emphasizes the qualities of women entrepreneurs—superhumans with strong personalities, who are proactive, with boundless energy, and the ability to harmoniously balance various aspects of life. Her aspirations extend beyond her own success; she wants to help others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams, providing guidance and support based on her own expertise and experiences.
Rufinat's commitment to empowering others extends to her family as well. Recognizing her niece's interest in psychology and nail art, she encouraged her to offer sessions and teach others. Rufinat's mentorship and encouragement fueled her niece's confidence, enabling her to take courses, teach her friends, and expand her clientele. This ripple effect of support exemplifies the profound impact that women can have on each other's lives, creating a cycle of empowerment and growth.
In sharing her story, Rufinat yearns for individuals to break free from the constraints imposed by society. She explained that in Kazakhstan, there is often a prescribed path to success, involving prestigious degrees and well-paying jobs in established institutions. However, Rufinat encourages others to embrace their unique journeys and stay true to themselves, even if it means deviating from society's expectations. Living authentically and pursuing one's passions and dreams, she believes, is the ultimate path to fulfillment and happiness.
Rufinat's narrative epitomizes the spirit of women entrepreneurs in Kazakhstan and their commitment to supporting and uplifting one another. Through the unbreakable thread of sisterhood, they weave a tapestry of inspiration, resilience, and collective success, redefining the entrepreneurial landscape of Kazakhstan and beyond. Rufinat's journey is just the beginning—a testament to the limitless possibilities that unfold when women empower each other to dream, create, and thrive.