Gulnaza, AUCA ’17, began her professional career as a Program Assistant at American Councils’ Bishkek office, working with the U.S.-CAEF Program. She has since been promoted to Program Coordinator and works with the USG Small Alumni Grants Program and is particularly involved in the “Young Inventors” Program. In addition to this important work, Gulnaza is respected for her social initiatives and efforts to promote entrepreneurship among mothers in Kyrgyzstan. A new mother herself, she organized a conference last summer for expecting mothers in Bishkek and Osh, which provided detailed information about pregnancy, delivery, family planning, and women’s reproductive systems. Over 450 women attended the conference, which featured several specialists and free private consultations. Together with partners, Gulnaza also initiated projects called “She Talks” and “She Starts,” aimed at creating opportunities for entrepreneurial-minded women.