Gender, Work & Organization 2026
Nazarbayev University hosted the 16th Annual Gender, Work & Organization (GWO) International Conference for the first time in Kazakhstan.
From 7–10 June 2026, Nazarbayev University welcomed more than 175 researchers, scholars, journal editors, and practitioners from around the world to discuss leadership, entrepreneurship, gender equality, work, organizational studies, and social inclusion.Read Full Conference Report
Four Days That Shaped
Academic Discourse
Key facts from a landmark gathering of global scholars in Astana, Kazakhstan.
What Made This Conference
Exceptional
International Recognition
Nazarbayev University became the first institution in Kazakhstan to host the internationally renowned Gender, Work & Organization Conference.
Doctoral Plenary Day
Dedicated workshops for doctoral students and early-career researchers covering:
- Academic writing
- Publishing
- Research methods
- Ethics
- Career development
Global Scholars
Internationally recognized professors, journal editors, and experts participated from universities across the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Canada, the USA, UAE, and other countries.
Research Themes
Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Gender Equality, Social Inclusion, Artificial Intelligence, Future of Work, Organizational Change, Decolonization, Sustainability, Central Asia Research.
Central Asia in Focus
The conference highlighted research on women's entrepreneurship, cultural identity, family transformation, and organizational development across Central Asia.
Gaza Special Session
A special discussion on the role of science and higher education during humanitarian crises brought urgent global perspectives to the conference.
Exploring the Frontiers of
Work, Gender & Organization
Beyond the Conference Room
Participants experienced the rich cultural heritage of Kazakhstan through curated events and visits.
Tamyr Bazar Exhibition
Participants explored a vibrant exhibition showcasing Kazakh craftsmanship, traditional textiles, and artisanal goods that celebrate the nation's creative heritage.
Traditional Kazakh Yurt
A full-scale yurt was set up on campus, offering guests an immersive introduction to nomadic Kazakh life, architecture, and hospitality traditions.
ALZHIR Memorial Museum
A guided visit to the ALZHIR Museum-Memorial Complex honored the memory of women who suffered political repressions, connecting history to the conference themes.
Astana Grand Mosque
Delegates visited one of Central Asia's largest mosques, appreciating its stunning architecture and learning about interfaith dialogue in Kazakhstan.
Lasting Impact
Key achievements and milestones from the conference.
Moments from the Conference
A visual journey through four remarkable days in Astana.
Building Global Partnerships
Through Research
The conference reinforced Nazarbayev University and the Nazarbayev University Research Centre for Entrepreneurship (NURCE) as an internationally recognized platform for research excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
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