Every success story begins not only with a strong character and charisma but also with a great idea that is truly unique and unlike anything already present in the market. Entrepreneur Anastasia Pak set out to create a space where every woman could feel special.
Women's entrepreneurship is a driver of economic growth. According to last year's official statistics, over 48% of SMEs are women.
Women successfully develop businesses in various economic sectors, excelling particularly in trade, the beauty industry, food service, as well as in eco-friendly and social initiatives.
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, at the beginning of 2025, the total number of employed in active small and medium enterprises in Kazakhstan exceeded 4.5 million people, with about 34%, or over 1.5 million, employed in enterprises led by women.
Initiatives to develop women's entrepreneurship are under the constant oversight of state structures and second-tier banks, which develop and roll out special products for the development of women's business.
One of the brightest success stories in the sphere of women's business is the story of Anastasia Pak, the founder of the women's salon Velvet and LINDA BOUTIQUE ATELIER in Karaganda.
From Idea to Opportunity Realization
Anastasia's first truly large-scale and successful project was the club—a space created exclusively for women. "It’s not just a beauty salon with the warm and cozy name Velvet, but a place where women can receive a full range of services: from beauty treatments to workouts like dance, stretching, and yoga. The unique concept of the club is that all this happens in an atmosphere of comfort and privacy—away from men's eyes. It's a space where each woman can feel free, confident, and relaxed," Anastasia explains.
While working with women as a stylist-makeup artist and interacting with them daily, Anastasia noticed that her clients were also interested in acquiring interesting, stylish, and quality clothing to complement any look. "That's when I got the idea to expand the project and open a women's clothing boutique. I envisioned it as a space with an individual approach—a boutique atelier where a woman can choose clothes that match her character, style, and peculiarities," Anastasia shares.
This led to the creation of LINDA BOUTIQUE ATELIER, which focuses on unconventional solutions, quality, and creating a unique wardrobe.
"Today, the boutique offers a wide range of women's clothing: outerwear, classic and casual looks, elegant evening outfits, shoes, bags, and many stylish accessories that help complete the look and emphasize each woman's individuality. We strive to select collections so that every girl can find something of her own with us—regardless of age, style, or occasion. Another big advantage is that clothes can be immediately adjusted to request or made to order using the most relevant patterns of choice," Anastasia notes.
Start and the Beginning of an Exciting Journey
The boutique opened in September 2025. It was truly an exciting and important event. "I was especially happy when I saw how many residents of Karaganda, as well as my clients, friends, and acquaintances, came to support me on this day. In smaller towns, there is a special atmosphere—many know each other, genuinely rejoice at new projects, and strive to support those who create something new, beautiful, and useful," says Anastasia.
The unique approach paid off - from the very first months, the business began showing excellent results. Gradually, LINDA BOUTIQUE ATELIER stopped being just a location where clothes are sold. Anastasia proudly shares that the project actively participates in the city’s life: the team is invited to participate in fashion shows, photo projects, collaborations, and social initiatives. Most importantly, the founder says, is involvement in projects related to the transformation of women in difficult life circumstances or those in social support projects.
"The project became not only a commercial but also a socially significant one. Around it, a large number of activities, creative ideas, and useful initiatives are being formed, which unite people and make city life brighter and more interesting," the entrepreneur shares.
A Reliable Financial Partner as the Key to Success
To realize this beautiful and ambitious idea, Anastasia decided to seek support from Nurbank. A project and business plan were developed, and all necessary reports were provided. Nurbank specialists saw the potential of the idea and, together with the Damu Fund (engaged in the "Өрлеу" program), supported the entrepreneur by financing the acquisition of her property.
"I am sincerely grateful to Nurbank and the Damu Fund. For me, it was not only financial assistance but also significant moral support. It’s valuable to feel that there is belief in me. In this case, professionals from the financial sector. I am grateful for the trust extended to me and hope that ahead lies new joint projects, expansion, and further business development. I find it very important that there are programs today that help develop small businesses and give aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to realize their ideas," Anastasia notes.
Development and New Horizons
The modern realities demand flexibility, creativity, and multitasking ability from leaders. Anastasia sees new horizons in this kind of development and enjoys living and working at that pace. "Every day brings new acquaintances, new opportunities, and inspiration for further growth. For me, entrepreneurship is not only about business, but also about creating something useful and in demand," Anastasia comments as she continues the theme of development.
Today the entrepreneur has plans for expansion—clothing tailoring for organizations is being explored. At the same time, Anastasia plans to combine style and functionality in her offer. Another area that the entrepreneur plans to develop is entry into marketplaces.
"Currently, we collaborate with suppliers mainly from Turkey, Korea, China. The near-term plans include developing partnerships with manufacturers from Italy and collaboration with Russian brands. We’re open to cooperation with Kazakh brands and are ready to help promote domestic producers with great enthusiasm," Anastasia notes.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
"The main thing I would like to wish to aspiring entrepreneurs is not to fear their ideas and to believe in themselves, even if initially others doubt you. Often it is the boldest and most unconventional projects that initially face distrust from people, but it is they that later become successful and in demand," Anastasia notes.
Yes, the speaker continues, running your own business is hard work, a large responsibility, and an unlimited number of tasks simultaneously. However, with proper process building, personal involvement, and reliable financial support, many things can turn out in the best possible way.
"The world is changing rapidly, and an entrepreneur needs to be able to adapt, think creatively, and not fear change. Do not "hesitate" to seek support. Today, there are government initiatives that truly help businesses develop. Sometimes, support and belief in your project can be the beginning of a long journey," the speaker notes. And additionally, Anastasia says, a successful business is built on trust, relationships, and a genuine desire to engage in one's favorite activity.
Nurbank JSC operates based on license No. 1.2.15/193 dated February 3, 2020, issued by the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market.
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