Scaling Impact Through Research and Collaboration: Nurlyaiym’s Journey at NURCE

Nurlyaiym Zhaksybayeva : Over the past year and a half at the Nazarbayev University Center for Entrepreneurship (NURCE), my journey has been a transformative exploration into the depths of entrepreneurship in Kazakhstan, focusing on empowering women entrepreneurs and promoting sustainable business practices within the circular economy.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs. Since joining NURCE, my primary goal has been to utilize academic research to foster meaningful development within Kazakhstan's entrepreneurial landscape. A significant part of my efforts has concentrated on women entrepreneurs—understanding their unique challenges and opportunities. My research has aimed to provide actionable insights and policy recommendations to support their endeavors effectively.

Influential Academic Contributions. One of the keystones of my work involved co-authoring a pivotal report for the OECD on women entrepreneurship in Kazakhstan. This comprehensive study not only highlighted the barriers these entrepreneurs face but also suggested strategic approaches to enhance their economic participation. The far-reaching impact of this research has extended beyond academic circles, influencing policy makers and contributing to national policy discussions.

Expanding Horizons: Conferences and Global Dialogues. My engagement with the academic community has been enriched through active participation in numerous conferences across Kazakhstan, Georgia, and the UK. These platforms have not only allowed me to showcase our findings but also to absorb diverse perspectives, enhancing the depth and applicability of our research.

Driving Sustainable Practices in Business. Additionally, my research has ventured into the circular economy. This work examines how businesses can integrate sustainable practices into their models, emphasizing the critical role of environmental considerations. This effort has culminated in scholarly articles that contribute to the global discourse on sustainability, spotlighting the Kazakhstani perspective.

Narratives That Inspire: Documenting Entrepreneurial Journeys. Beyond journal articles, I have co-authored book chapters that delve into the experiences of women operating within the circular economy. These narratives not only enrich academic literature but also serve as a source of motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs and policy makers.

A Reflection on Impact and Aspirations. As I look forward, I am excited to continue exploring new dimensions of entrepreneurship research and policy development. The upcoming publication featuring the stories of Kazakhstani eco-entrepreneurs, driven by our dedicated "green" team, highlights the innovative practices within our local entrepreneurial community.

My tenure at NURCE has been profoundly fulfilling, marked by professional growth and significant contributions to entrepreneurship research and policy. This journey has shown me how targeted academic efforts can expand impact, affecting not just local but regional development across Central Asia. I am committed to furthering this momentum, ensuring our initiatives continue to foster sustainable and inclusive growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.