By British Council

15 February 2021 - 10:29

Mother of three, Aizada Tynybekova from Kyrgyzstan, was able to implement her old dream and made a book from felt for pre-school children and called it @Oinobook. The book allows children not only to develop fine motor skills, but also to learn about Kyrgyz culture and traditions. In 2019, she presented her project at the Big Idea Challenge and got a winning ticket to the final stage in London.

“I am 35 years old, happily married with three children. For four to five years I was just a housewife, but I could not keep still and just enjoy raising my kids. I actually found it as the most responsible job that I ever had, and it finally helped me to move on. I was looking for various educational materials and practice books for my children. And I realised that many interesting and useful books, cards, educational games, and toys were not produced locally. Then I thought: "What if I publish a children’s book myself?".

Aizada admits that the Big Idea Challenge helped her dream come true and made her believe in herself.

“Mothers on maternity leave will understand me. This project let me find myself again and resume my active life. Secondly, I was able to plan the implementation of the project step by step and understand my mistakes and correct them in good time. Thirdly, my husband and I enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people, gain new knowledge and work with experts from England".

Aizada has already opened an educational center named "Namys-Issyk-Kul" in her small homeland and continues to contribute to children’s education and training.

We remind you that you also have an opportunity to take part in the competition and receive financial and mentoring support from our experts.