On December 7, in Almaty, the results of the year in philanthropy were celebrated at a charity event organized by the Kazakhstan Growth Forum platform.
The winners were selected by members of an independent expert council in 13 categories, including the inaugural “Philanthropist of the Year” award, which was presented to Bulat Utemuratov for his remarkable contributions to the social sphere. The total amount of funds donated by Bulat Utemuratov for charitable projects in the areas of culture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure exceeded $150 million.
A cornerstone initiative of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation lies in the establishment of a network of autism centers known as “Asyl Miras”. Over nine years, these centers have provided free educational services to approximately 16,000 children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) across Kazakhstan through six early behavioral intervention programs.
On the 8th of December, the 13th center dedicated to assisting children with ASD opened its doors in Semey. This new facility will cater to up to 300 children annually. Lessons will adhere to the standards of the “Autism. One World for All” program, encompassing six intervention programs.
Nurlan Uranhayev, Akim of the Abay region, remarked that the inauguration of the Autism Center in Semey represents a significant step towards cultivating an inclusive environment for the development of children with ASD. He also expressed his profound gratitude to the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation for its unwavering support in the implementation of such impactful initiatives.
Over the past year, the Foundation has successfully completed projects such as the construction of a comprehensive school accommodating 1,500 children in Kosshy, where work has also commenced on a community center spanning 8,500 square meters. In 2024, plans are in place to erect two additional schools in Almaty region – in Issyk and Shelek. Currently, construction of a new airport terminal in Kyzylorda is underway and slated for completion in the spring of 2024.
Additionally, the Foundation has provided assistance to the victims of the earthquake in Turkey ($5 million) and to the families of the deceased miners from the Kostenko mine in Karaganda region ($1 million). The Foundation also consistently extends a helping hand to those affected by natural disasters in Kazakhstan under the “Aid Card” programs. In the cultural arena, Bulat Utemuratov is a staunch supporter of the Batyrkhan Shukenov Foundation and the Kulanshi Art Space.
Bulat Utemuratov stands as an exemplary philanthropist whose contributions to Kazakhstan’s development are truly remarkable. His philanthropic endeavors have the power to improve the lives of thousands of individuals, including children with special needs.
