SEL and Wellbeing Specialist

Abdrakhmanova

Almaty | Kazakhstan

Early in her career, Altynay became interested in a question: What can schools do to support children’s mental health before difficulties become serious problems? As she explored evidence-based preventive approaches that could be adapted and implemented in Kazakhstan’s schools, she discovered the field of social-emotional learning (SEL). What began as a professional inquiry soon became a lifelong passion and the foundation of her work in education, psychology, and well-being.

For the past nine years, Altynay has designed and delivered learning and development programs for diverse audiences across Kazakhstan. Her work has included students, educators, school leaders, and parents from different social backgrounds. Through training, facilitation, consulting, research, and program development, she has worked to make evidence-based psychological knowledge practical and accessible.

Altynay is the founder of SANA Skills, one of Kazakhstan’s pioneering social-emotional learning initiatives for primary school students. She has collaborated with schools, universities, foundations, NGOs, and international organizations to develop curricula, assessment tools, learning resources, and professional development programs focused on social-emotional competencies, well-being and positive youth development.

As a mother of two young sons, she is deeply committed to creating environments where children and youth can flourish. She believes that sustainable change begins with relationships – with ourselves, with one another, and with the systems we are part of. Her work is guided by values of compassion and a commitment to contributing to the greater good.