Making a Difference: My Father's Journey to Kyrgyzstan

In the midst of the pandemic-generated turmoil and insecurity of 2020, my family faced a unique challenge. While the world was grappling with the crisis at hand, my father was called upon to leave the comfort and safety of home for the distant land of Kyrgyzstan for a work assignment that would test our limits and challenge our resolve.

My mother and I stayed in Turkey, unable to join him due to the ongoing pandemic. It was a difficult time for us, the pandemic presented its own challenges, as we navigated lockdowns and limited social interaction. Meanwhile, my father threw himself into his work, striving to meet the high expectations placed upon him, but he also took the opportunity to immerse himself in the local culture, learning the language and customs of the people. He made friends with locals and discovered the rich history of the region.

My father soon realized that poverty is a major issue in Kyrgyzstan, affecting a large portion of the population and limiting their ability to access basic necessities. The country has a predominantly agricultural economy, which provides few jobs, and the industrial sector is underdeveloped, making it difficult for many people to find work. In addition, poverty in Kyrgyzstan is exacerbated by low salaries and a high cost of living. The average salary in Kyrgyzstan is low, and the cost of basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare is high, making it difficult for many people to make ends meet. Limited access to education and healthcare is another factor that contributes to poverty in Kyrgyzstan. Many rural communities lack access to basic healthcare services, and there is a shortage of qualified medical professionals in the country. Similarly, many children in Kyrgyzstan do not have access to quality education, which limits their ability to escape the cycle of poverty and improve their standard of living.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation for the Kyrgyz people. My father, recognizing the crucial role that healthcare plays in the fight against COVID-19, has supplied the Kyrgyz people with essential medical equipment and supplies through his company’s support. This has helped to ensure that those who have fallen ill with the virus have access to the care they need. In addition, the company has distributed masks, hand sanitizers, and other protective gear to help curb the spread of the virus.

Access to clean water was also critical in the fight against COVID-19. My father's company helped to provide the clean water to communities throughout Kyrgyzstan, helping to keep people hydrated and healthy during this difficult time.

My father's efforts have not gone unnoticed, and his work has been greatly appreciated by the Kyrgyz people. Many have commented on the positive impact that he has had on their lives, and they were grateful for the support that they have received during this difficult time. It is truly inspiring to see the impact that my father has had on the lives of the Kyrgyz people. His unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world is an inspiration to me, and I am extremely proud to be his daughter.

As for him, he will always cherish his time in Kyrgyzstan, and the memories he made there will stay with him forever. In his own words, he discovered a side of himself he never knew existed, as he pushed his boundaries and stepped outside his comfort zone.