From June 20 to July 11, 2026, AlmaU’s AI Lab hosted the pilot edition of the Young Leadership Program, an educational initiative organized by Students Development Center to prepare the next generation of student organization leaders. Over the course of four consecutive Saturdays, 16 students participated in an intensive leadership development program designed to strengthen their leadership competencies, management skills, and practical knowledge required to successfully lead student clubs and initiatives.
Each training day was carefully structured to combine theoretical learning, hands-on practice, and meaningful networking opportunities. The day began with an Energizing Intro, followed by presentations delivered by invited speakers. After each lecture session, participants enjoyed a coffee break, providing an opportunity to exchange ideas with the speakers, discuss key takeaways, and take part in content creation for the center’s social media platforms.
During the second half of the day, students participated in interactive practical sessions that included teamwork, case study discussions, networking activities, and collaborative problem-solving, allowing them to apply the knowledge gained throughout the lectures. Each module concluded with a shared lunch, creating an additional space for informal communication, experience sharing, and strengthening connections among future student leaders.
The program followed a modular structure and brought together the expertise of AlmaU staff members, distinguished alumni, and invited industry professionals.
The first module, “HR & Self-Leadership”, opened with an introduction by Dayana Turarbekova, Director of the Student and Alumni Development Department, who presented the program’s mission, objectives, and overall vision. Alexandra Kim, who has contributed to projects such as «Ne Prosto Orchestra» and «Tynda Music» and currently works with entrepreneurs through VQ Business Club, shared her expertise on leadership, personal effectiveness, and building high-performing teams.
The second module, “Communication, Negotiation & Legal Awareness”, featured Malika Khairulla, Manager at the Students Development Center, together with Diana Gubasheva, mentor of the Hunters Promotion Team, who introduced participants to partnership development, reputation management, and corporate communications. The module concluded with sessions delivered by Dayana Turarbekova and Sara Shanimova, Manager at the Students Development Center, focusing on the legal responsibilities and legal literacy required of student organization leaders.
The third module, “Finance & Fundraising” was delivered by Project Manager Mereilim Kalen, who introduced participants to the fundamentals of financial planning, budgeting, and fundraising strategies for implementing student initiatives and projects.
The final module, “Project Management & Business”, brought together two distinguished AlmaU alumni. Daniil Potseluiko, former leader of Enactus AlmaU and recipient of the “Graduate of the Year – 2026” award, shared his experience in project implementation, team management, and leadership development. Nariman Darayev, an entrepreneur, investment and real estate expert, AlmaU alumnus, and recipient of the “Graduate of the Year – 2011” award, delivered a session on project-based leadership, managerial decision-making, and the entrepreneurial mindset as a key driver for successful initiatives.
The program concluded with a certificate award ceremony for participants and appreciation certificates presented to the invited speakers. Each participant also received commemorative gifts in recognition of their successful completion of the program.
One of the most significant outcomes of the Young Leadership Program was the development of the Leader’s Master Book — a unique knowledge management resource created by Students Development Center to ensure the transfer of experience to future generations of student leaders. The guide includes educational materials from every module, practical recommendations, document templates, operational guidelines, best practices, and management tools essential for leading student organizations effectively. Available in both digital and printed formats, the Leader’s Master Book will serve as an important instrument for preserving institutional knowledge and ensuring continuity within AlmaU’s student leadership community.
The pilot edition of the Young Leadership Program marked an important milestone in the development of AlmaU’s student leadership ecosystem. The program laid the foundation for building a strong community of student leaders united by the values of responsibility, initiative, teamwork, mutual support, and continuous personal growth.
