The IV International Forum on Human Capital Management in Central Asia - Human Capital Days, Kazakhstan, was held in Astana. The forum annually brings together HR leaders, representatives of government bodies, business, and education.
One of the highlights of the forum was the awarding of the international Employer Brand Eurasia award, which recognizes best practices in building and promoting employer branding. This year, in the Alumni Program category, Nurbank JSC won for its successful implementation of the social initiative 'Path to Life'.
The 'Path to Life' program ('Өмірге жолдама' in Kazakh) was launched in 2014 on the initiative of Nurbank JSC shareholder Eldar Sarsenov. It provides graduates of orphanages and shelters across Kazakhstan with the opportunity to receive higher education at Caspian University. The bank fully covers tuition, accommodation, meals, transportation, and personal expenses of students. Special attention is given to mentoring support and assistance in employment - graduates are guaranteed work at Nurbank and in bank-affiliated companies.
'For more than ten years, 'Path to Life' has been helping children, who lack parental care, take an important step into the future. For the Nurbank team, this is not just a project - it is our mission. We see how our kids grow, learn, find themselves, and confidently pursue their dreams. And every one of their successes inspires us to continue helping those who also need their 'path'. We believe every child, regardless of their past, deserves support, education, and the opportunity to build a decent life,' noted Gulnara Musatayeva, Chairman of the Management Board of Nurbank JSC.
The international jury of the Employer Brand Eurasia award highly appreciated the 'Path to Life' program for its relevance, social significance, unique format involving the bank's employees and partners, and its measurable impact on the lives of participants. The project is recognized as an example of a sustainable initiative that has a real impact and transforms lives.
'I know that many people do not even realize what a wonderful project we have. It is about people. About a chance that can change everything. Winning the award in the Alumni Program category is not only a high acknowledgment of years of dedicated work by our entire team but also a great motivation to continue helping as many young people as possible who need support at the start of their adult life. As a graduate of this program and now its curator, I understand its value like no one else. For the third year, I personally welcome each new intake. We communicate, assist with admissions, and conduct interviews,' shared Adelina Zhdanova, curator of the 'Path to Life' program.
Since its launch, 130 young men and women from different regions of the country have participated in the program. Their number is steadily growing: in the 2024–2025 academic year, 24 students are enrolled in the program. This year marks the ninth graduation - with new diplomas and real tickets to adult life for several young Kazakhstanis. And soon, new participants will take their place — young people for whom everything is just beginning.