"Our National Attire Receives Orders from Abroad" – Beineu Seamstress Zhanar Mendikulova

As part of the grand opening of "Aktau – The Cultural Capital of the Turkic World", large-scale events are taking place in the regional center. One of the highlights is "Batyrlar Auyly" (Village of Warriors), set up in the amphitheater square and organized by the Beineu district.

Among the distinguished participants are representatives of the renowned Zhanar sewing studio, who have traveled to Aktau to showcase their exquisite national attire. Visitors can purchase traditional outerwear such as shapans and zhadaqais—garments that seamlessly blend comfort with heritage.

Beineu resident and master seamstress Zhanar Mendikulova, who has made tailoring her profession, shared an exciting detail: some of her orders now come from international customers.

Initially a basketball coach and physical education teacher, Zhanar eventually turned her passion for sewing into a thriving business. Beyond serving local clients, she has seen a growing demand for her products from all corners of Kazakhstan through social media. Remarkably, her handcrafted garments have also reached customers as far as the United States, Russia, and even Norway, where warm clothing is a necessity.

"I primarily use merino wool to create national garments, all of which are handmade. Every piece is produced in Beineu, where I run the 'Zhanar' sewing studio. We also offer training opportunities and, through the local career center, provide employment for seven people, including individuals with disabilities," Mendikulova shared during the cultural event in Aktau.

Now in her fifties, she has become an inspiration to many, skillfully transforming fabric and thread into beautifully crafted clothing. Over the past decade, she has employed more than ten people in her community.

"Just recently, I hired a hearing-impaired girl through a government subsidy program. I’ve been in this industry since 2014, though my professional journey began much earlier. From 1987 to 1991, I worked as a physical education teacher and basketball coach. After Kazakhstan gained independence, I pursued an accounting degree and worked in finance for 16 years. Eleven years ago, I shifted to sewing—and I have never regretted it. Mastering three completely different professions has shown me that with determination, any skill can be learned and turned into success," Zhanar said.

She views "Aktau – The Cultural Capital of the Turkic World" as an incredible opportunity, as it allows international visitors to admire and purchase her unique, high-quality designs.