Gulnaza Khalmanbetova, a graduate of AUCA in 2017 from Kyrgyzstan, currently serves as the Program Coordinator at American Councils in Bishkek and is part of the MBA in One League program, which connects high-potential change-makers with world-class education and opportunities. Beyond her professional role, Gulnaza leads Mama Fest, one of Kyrgyzstan’s largest festivals for future mothers, and developed the Mama Space app for young parents. Her diverse experience includes roles as Marketing Manager at Galaxy in Bishkek, positions at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Kyrgyz Republic, U.S.-CAEF Program Assistant, Program Assistant at the International NGO Mercy Corps, and Program Coordinator at American Councils for the USG Alumni Reunion and Engagement Program. A prominent servant leader, she organized an online fundraising campaign in December 2021, raising funds for gifts for over 300 vulnerable children across Kyrgyzstan. Additionally, Gulnaza has been instrumental in creating the “She Starts” program, which provides entrepreneurial opportunities for women and establishes business schools for vulnerable women.