The mentorship programme, implemented by UNDP as part of the Aid for Trade project, with financial support from the Government of Finland, aims to empower entrepreneurs from the regions of Kyrgyzstan. Through the experience of mentors and practical support, programme participants find sustainable development paths, strengthen their business skills and expand their contribution to their communities.

Shokhrukh Mirzakarimov is a young entrepreneur from the Jalal-Abad region, the founder of the Muras Yurt Camp Arstanbap. In 2024, he began his journey in the tourism industry, striving not only to promote the region as a point of attraction for guests from all over the world, but also to create jobs for young people in the village of Arstanbap.

Having joined the UNDP mentorship programme, Shokhrukh set a goal for himself - to strengthen his knowledge, build a sustainable business model and learn to see in entrepreneurship not only profit, but also social value.

“Now it is important for me not just to earn money, but to contribute to the development of my community. This is sustainable entrepreneurship,” Shokhrukh shares.

What he learned in the programme:

• to determine the direction of business development and the target audience;

• to formulate realistic goals and achieve them;

• to analyze the quality of services and adjust work with clients;

• to make decisions consciously, even in difficult situations.

Working with mentor Gulzat Raimbekova influenced not only business development, but also personal growth. Participation in the HoReCa-2025 summit, where he got on the recommendation of the mentor, became a turning point for him: new acquaintances, exchange of experience and discovery of new prospects became part of his professional route.

“I learned not to give in to criticism and doubts. The main thing is to believe in your business and not turn off the path,” he notes.

Gulzat Raimbekova: When support changes lives

Gulzat Raimbekova is an entrepreneur and mentor who became part of the UNDP mentorship programme to share experiences, develop regional entrepreneurship and help others see the future.

The decision to become a mentor was a logical continuation of her path: colleagues and partners saw in her not only a leader, but also a person capable of inspiring. Having completed special mentor training organized by UNDP, Gulzat mastered the tools of effective interaction and creating a trusting environment for growth.

“Mentoring is about dialogue, respect and joint development. We grow together with the mentee,” says Gulzat.

With Shokhrukh, their work was built on equal partnership, honest conversations and practical solutions. One of the key messages was the understanding that entrepreneurship is not only about profit, but also about the values that you convey.

The programme gave Shokhrukh not only business skills, but also tools for self-analysis, sustainability, and inner confidence. His camp is developing today, receiving positive feedback, and is becoming an integral part of the tourism infrastructure of Arstanbap.

What has changed:

• the quality of service and customer focus have increased;

• a clear business strategy has emerged;

• the entrepreneur has become an active participant in the local economy;

• the involvement of young people in the tourism sector has increased.

Shokhrukh's story is not just the story of one entrepreneur. It is part of UNDP's systemic approach to regional development, supporting young people, and building a local economy based on knowledge, solidarity, and trust.

The mentorship programme strengthens entrepreneurial ties, promotes the exchange of experience, and creates a culture of support, which is especially important in remote regions.

"Maintain inner confidence, even if not everyone believes in you. Your business is your responsibility and your strength," Shokhrukh advises future entrepreneurs.

“Understand the client, think like them, be flexible and develop — and you will definitely find your place in the market,” adds Gulzat.

The programme participants have access to training events, individual mentoring, grants and networking. More than 60 entrepreneurs from different regions of Kyrgyzstan have gone through the programme, which has created 15 new enterprises and 56 jobs — 45 of which were taken by women and people with disabilities.

Support for entrepreneurship remains an important part of UNDP’s work in the Kyrgyz Republic. Such initiatives contribute to the implementation of the National Development Programme until 2030, stimulate the regional economy and create new jobs. The programme also contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by promoting sustainable and inclusive approaches in business.