Socially oriented leadership program for teenagers, "Tolýk Adam - Mind. Heart. Will," was held.

From August 3rd to 7th, Nazarbayev University hosted a socially oriented leadership program for teenagers, "Tolyk Adam - Mind. Heart. Will," implemented by the Nazarbayev University Research Center for Entrepreneurship (NURCE).

Over the course of five days, over 40 teenagers aged 12 to 16 from across Kazakhstan discussed leadership, the future, responsibility, and their own potential through the philosophy of Abai and modern educational practices. A key feature of the program was that Abai's philosophy was not confined to classical texts. The students were invited to examine the great thinker's ideas through a modern lens—through real-life situations, teamwork, discussions, and practical assignments. They also discussed what a leader can be like today: how to make decisions, understand the consequences of one's actions, maintain inner resilience, work in a team, and still remain human.

Each participant received a special gift—a modern graphic edition of "Abai: Words of Edification" by Gaukhar Yusumbaeva. This comic book adaptation of "Words of Edification" is designed specifically for children and teenagers. The visual format makes complex philosophical ideas more understandable, accessible, and engaging for the younger generation.

Over the course of five days, the teenagers learned about career guidance, artificial intelligence and IT, public speaking, art therapy, and leadership thinking tools. For many, Nazarbayev University itself was a special highlight—they explored its campus and research environment.

But the program provided them with more than just new knowledge. Over the course of these five days, teenagers from different cities across the country met, formed friendships, and formed a real team. "I'm incredibly grateful to the program organizers. It had a profound impact on me. I met some great people, and the time flew by. Special thanks to Professor Shumaila Yusufzai. We were given the opportunity to view Abai's philosophy through a modern lens and gain a new understanding of his ideas," shared program participant Eskendir Shiryaev from Semey. For parents, this program also provided an opportunity to see how their children were changing and developing. Lyutsiya Kosalieva from Shymkent shared, “Thank you so much for the opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge. Even from the short snippets and videos we received in the participants’ chat, it was clear how much useful information the children were receiving. I’m so glad I brought my son; he was thrilled to get up for class every morning. A huge thank you to all the organizers, teachers, and coaches for their hard work and contribution to the younger generation.”

Marina Derkach from Aktobe had previously attended the Master Training for Entrepreneurs, organized by the project team. After learning about the program for teenagers, she decided to bring her sons to Astana: “When I learned that you were organizing a program for teenagers, I was thrilled with the opportunity and brought my sons to this wonderful university. Thank you for your knowledge and energy. This program not only meets international standards, but also promotes ethical standards, ecology, and a positive attitude. These are the things that are important to our children.”


The final day was truly special. Some parents were able to attend the certificate presentation ceremony to share the program's conclusion with their children. The certificates were presented to the participants by Professor Shumaila Yusufzai, Director of the Nazarbayev University Research Center for Entrepreneurship. A celebratory cake was a joyful and unexpected culmination. Photos, smiles, hugs, and a wealth of emotions provided a warm conclusion to the five days the children spent together.
For the Nazarbayev University Research Center for Entrepreneurship (NURCE), this program was a continuation of extensive work studying how Abai's philosophy can be applied to the development of modern competencies. The project's goal was not only to introduce teenagers to Abai's legacy. It was also important to understand how his ideas can be applied to the modern generation, helping them develop independent thinking, inner strength, responsibility, ethics, the ability to interact with others, and a willingness to create positive change around themselves. The five days ended, but the program left behind much more than certificates: New friends. New knowledge. A new perspective on Abai's philosophy. And perhaps most importantly, the confidence that each of them has the power to influence their own future.