On common ground: Can agriculture and conservation coexist
in the mountains of Central Asia?

Mountain ecosystems are increasingly fragile to environmental damage. Finding a balance between agricultural and environmental needs – for communities to... View Article

When Necessity is the Mother of Innovation

Ayperi Boobekova says her journey to opening her own kindergarten began with a question:

Healing the Earth, One Tree at a Time

In the heart of Kyrgyzstan, a remarkable story of environmental stewardship is unfolding, led by the passionate and determined Abdujapar... View Article

From YES to Success: How USAID and Aga Khan Foundation Empower Youth in Central Asia

To empower youth, build a pipeline of entrepreneurs, and promote a culture of entrepreneurship, Local Impact, funded by USAID and... View Article

Female Entrepreneurs Blazing a Trail to Rejuvenate Early Childhood Development in the Kyrgyz Republic

In some parts of the country, teachers have been taking things into their own hands to deliver Early Childhood Development... View Article

2022 AKF USA Annual Report: Generosity Inspires Hope & Hope Changes Lives

In this year’s Annual Report, we take a moment to both share the significant progress we have made over the... View Article

Featuring AKF’s Human-Centered Design Approach
to Community Engagement on a Global Stage

To spotlight the advancements in Central Asia on human-centered design (HCD), AKF colleagues presented at the International Social Innovation Research... View Article

Jailoo-Tourism, a Growing Space for Entrepreneurs in Kyrgyz Republic

The tourism industry is rapidly developing in Kyrgyzstan, notably even in the most remote corners of the country. Jailoo-tourism, a... View Article

Getting Ready to Get the Job: Local Impact Supports Youth in the Kyrgyz Republic

After getting her master’s degree in finance at Kyrgyz National University, Sagynalieva Aigerim applied for jobs in her field unsuccessfully.

Enabling Youth to Find Meaningful Work, Learning Opportunities in the Kyrgyz Republic Using HCD

This article was authored by Sarayu Agarwal, Program and Co-Creation Manager for Local Impact.