When choosing a university, Yasmina Alibekova was drawn to the University of Central Asia's mission of contributing to the development of the region through education, research, and community engagement. Just as importantly, she was attracted by the University's diverse and multicultural environment, where students from across Central Asia come together to exchange ideas and perspectives.
"As someone who wants to contribute to the development of my region, I was inspired by the University's focus on creating positive change through education, research, and community engagement."
"As someone who wants to contribute to the development of my region, I was inspired by the University's focus on creating positive change through education, research, and community engagement."
Throughout her years at UCA's Khorog Campus, Yasmina became deeply involved in student leadership and community-building initiatives. Among her most significant contributions were TEDxUCA Khorog and UCA Stories—two platforms dedicated to sharing ideas, experiences, and perspectives.
Her TEDx journey began in 2023 when she joined the organising team as a volunteer. Behind the scenes, she witnessed the dedication and teamwork required to transform an idea into an event capable of inspiring hundreds of people. Motivated by that experience, she later applied to become one of the organisers of TEDxUCA Khorog.
"What inspired me most about TEDx was its ability to bring people together through powerful stories and innovative ideas."
A similar vision guided her involvement in UCA Stories. The initiative had existed previously on campus, and Yasmina saw an opportunity to revive it for a new generation of students.
"I wanted to help revive it for a new generation of students and contribute to improving the community around me by creating a platform that would bring people together and encourage meaningful conversations."
"Personal stories have the power to connect people, build empathy, and inspire positive change."
Among all the projects she has been involved in, TEDxUCA Khorog and UCA Stories remain her proudest achievements because they allowed her to create opportunities for others to be heard.
Her commitment to community development began long before university. Prior to joining UCA, Yasmina spent five years volunteering in her community and working as a youth trainer, participating in educational, social, and charitable initiatives. These experiences helped shape the values that continue to guide her today.
At the same time, she actively pursued professional growth through internships in sales and marketing, social media and communications, and research-related projects, building a diverse set of skills that complement her academic background.
Looking ahead, Yasmina hopes to build a career at the intersection of economics, research, project management, and community development. She is particularly interested in using analytical thinking and evidence-based approaches to solve real-world challenges and create opportunities for others.
