Transforming a pastime into a profession
In the heart of Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, Madina Akholtayeva has found a fresh start, thanks to the JOLTAP project. A resident of Astana, Madina had been working as a cashier after graduating from D. Kunayev College with a degree in "secretary-referent." However, her passion for sewing, ignited by a sewing machine gifted by her mother-in-law, was about to lead her down a different path.
Early in 2025, Madina's sister, who had taken a course in bookkeeping, recommended the JOLTAP project to her. Intrigued, Madina enrolled in a 22-day course for the 'seamstress' specialty. The JOLTAP project, an initiative aimed at supporting youth through policy and volunteerism efforts, proved to be a transformative experience for Madina.
The JOLTAP project offers a foundation, necessary equipment, and conditions for learning and growth. For Madina, it meant the opportunity to learn a new profession. She started making small sewing items such as pillowcases, pillows, and small blankets. Her interest in the profession of seamstress grew after completing the course.
Upon graduating from the course, Madina was assisted by the JOLTAP project team in registering on job search websites and received job search recommendations. Within a couple of weeks, Madina found a job as a seamstress at a company in Astana that specializes in the production of workwear.
Madina expressed her gratitude towards the JOLTAP project for providing her with the opportunity to learn a new profession. She noted that the project created a warm and friendly atmosphere during training, making the learning process enjoyable. The JOLTAP project, she believes, is a real chance for many Kazakhs to learn a new profession and have confidence in their future.
The JOLTAP program, while detailed specifics about its exact services and eligibility criteria in Astana are not fully described, is part of a broader set of regional programs aimed at facilitating employment and engagement opportunities for youth. As a government-backed youth initiative, it presumably helps young residents of Astana access job opportunities, volunteer platforms, or developmental grants, contributing to youth empowerment and social engagement.
For comprehensive information about the JOLTAP program's eligibility or service specifics, it may be best to consult official local government or youth employment portals in Astana. However, for Madina, the impact of the program was clear - it provided her with the tools and opportunities to turn her hobby into a career, and for that, she is truly grateful.
- Madina's newfound passion for sewing transformed into a career opportunity, as she discovered the fashion-and-beauty aspect of the profession through the JOLTAP project.
- After completing the JOLTAP project's course, Madina shifted her focus towards education-and-self-development and career-development opportunities, aiming to continually improve her skills as a seamstress.
