GOLDEN FUND

Shara (Gulshara) Zhiyenkulova (1912–1991) was an outstanding Kazakh dancer, choreographer, actress and teacher, the first People's Artist of the Kazakh SSR in the field of choreography. She is considered the founder of Kazakh stage dance, who made a huge contribution to the development of national art and culture. She was born in 1912 in Verny (now Almaty). From early childhood, she showed interest in art, especially folk dances. In her youth, she began her creative career, learning folk movements, and then developed a unique style, combining traditional Kazakh dances with elements of classical and modern choreography. In 1934, Shara Zhiyenkulova became one of the first soloists of the Kazakh Musical Theater (later transformed into the Opera and Ballet Theater). Her performances with solo numbers in Moscow and Leningrad caused a sensation, introducing national Kazakh dance to a wide audience. Among her most famous dances are “Kara Zhorga”, “Aizhan Kyz”, “Kelinshek”, which have become the hallmark of Kazakh choreography. In addition to her stage career, she was engaged in teaching, educating a new generation of artists and choreographers. Thanks to her work, Kazakh folk dance received stage embodiment and became an integral part of professional art. In 1958, she was awarded the title of People's Artist of the Kazakh SSR, and later engaged in scientific work, studying and popularizing folk dances of Kazakhstan. Her contribution to the culture of Kazakhstan is enormous, and today her name is associated with the preservation and development of national choreographic art. In Almaty, there is a republican choreographic school inspired by her heritage, and her productions continue to be performed on the stages of the country.

Sherkhan Murtaza is a great Kazakh writer, journalist and public figure, who left an indelible mark on culture and literature Kazakhstan. His life was filled with creativity, the fight for justice and the desire to convey the truth to the people. Born September 28 1932 in the village of Talapty in the Zhambyl region. Graduated from the Faculty of Journalism of Moscow State University. From the first years of work in the press, he proved himself to be a talented publicist, dedicated to the ideals of truth and justice. Worked in editorial offices of newspapers "Leninshil Zhas", "Socialist Kazakhstan", magazine "Zhuldyz", was the editor-in-chief of the newspapers "Kazakh Adebieti" and "Socialist Kazakhstan", and also headed the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting of Kazakhstan. Sherkhan Murtaza always said that the word is a weapon capable of changing the destinies of people. In his works he touched upon themes of national identity, spiritual values ​​and the fate of the common people. His work includes the novels “Kara Marzhan”, “Kyzyl Zhebe”, plays “Stalinge Khat” and “Beseudіn Khaty”. Many of his works have been translated into other languages ​​and have become part of the gold fund Kazakh literature. He didn’t just write, he lived what he talked about. His journalistic materials and artistic works inspired entire generations of Kazakhstanis. Sherkhan Murtaza was not only a talented writer, but also a real voice of the people, defending the truth in difficult times. Died on October 9, 2018, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire today. A monument was erected in his honor in Taraz, as a symbol of respect and recognition of his contribution to the culture and literature of Kazakhstan.

Shot-Aman Valikhanov is an outstanding Kazakh sculptor and architect, whose name is forever inscribed in the history of domestic architecture and monumental art. Born in 1932 in the North Kazakhstan region, was educated at the Moscow Architectural Institute and devoted his entire life to preserving the historical heritage and creating symbols of independent Kazakhstan.His creative legacy covers dozens of landmark projects, among which the coat of arms of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which became one of the main state symbols of the country. He also headed the creative team that created the Independence Monument in Almaty, embodying the spirit of sovereign Kazakhstan.Valikhanov took an active part in the development of architectural science and culture: he headed the Union of Architects of Kazakhstan, was a member of the Academy of Architecture, and also led the Kazakh Society for the Protection of Historical Monuments and culture.Among his monumental works are monuments to Chokan Valikhanov, Shakarim, Tokash Bokin, as well as the equestrian monument to Kenesary Khan in Astana. Of particular importance is the monument “Stronger than Death,” dedicated to the victims of the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site, opened in 2001 in Semey.For his contribution to architecture and art, Valikhanov received many awards, including the State Prize of the Kazakh SSR, the Order of Kurmet, as well as the title of Honored Worker of Kazakhstan and Honorary Architect of the country.His work is not just architectural projects, but a reflection of history, culture and the spirit of the Kazakh people.

Imanbek Zeikenov, known as Imanbek, is a Kazakh DJ and music producer who gained worldwide fame thanks to remix of the track by American rapper SAINt JHN.Born October 21 2000 in the small town of Aksu (Pavlodar region). Since childhood, he was fond of music, played the guitar, was interested beatmaking. He graduated from city school No.1, then entered the College of Transport and Communications, choosing a specialization “transportation organization.” During his studies, he worked as a signalman on the railway.He created music for the soul, experimented with remixes. In 2019 his version Roses unexpectedly went viral, attracted the attention of the world industry and brought a contract with the label. In 2021 Imanbek became the first Kazakhstani to win a Grammy in the category Best remix of the year.Today he continues to work with world stars, creating new hits and promotingKazakh electronic music on the international stage.

Azamat Satybaldy is a person who is changing the Kazakh theater and cinema. Actor, producer, dubbing master and cultural leader. Honored Worker of Kazakhstan (2014), President of the film studio "Kazakhfilm" (since 2023 ).He began his career on stage, but always strived for more. Working at the Kazakh Academic Drama Theater named after M. Auezov, he did not just act roles — he created them with soul and character. In 2017 he opened his own theater “28 THEATRE” and film studio “Cinema 28” where he experiments with new forms of art.His creative path is not just plays and films, these are stories that resonate in the hearts viewers. In 2022 he headed the Kazakh National Academy of Arts named after T. Zhurgenov, where he laid the foundation for training a new generation of talented actors and directors.Becoming president of Kazakhfilm in 2023, Azamat Satybaldy took on the mission of reviving Kazakh cinema, turning it into a powerful industry capable of making a name for itself in the world arena. This is not just a career it is a calling.