“Future Global Leaders’ Workshop” in Astana: Joint Event by MGIMO and “Astana” Diplomatic Club
On March 29, the “Moskva” Business Center in Astana hosted a joint event organized by MGIMO University and “Astana” Diplomatic Club – the “Future Global Leaders’ Workshop”. The event brought together prospective applicants, students, and young professionals interested in pursuing careers in international relations and diplomacy.
The event was opened by Elizaveta Rudenko, Head of International Marketing at MGIMO University, and Kairbolat Sakhmetov, President of “Astana” Diplomatic Club. Mr.Sakhmetov emphasized that such initiatives are of great significance in strengthening humanitarian cooperation between Russia and Kazakhstan, as well as in fostering youth connections. They offer young Kazakhstani citizens the opportunity to learn about one of the premier universities for training international affairs specialists, with an eye toward future admission.
A welcoming address was delivered by Yuri Melnik, Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Kazakhstan and a graduate of the MGIMO School of International Relations. “Today, it is especially important to be able to distinguish facts from opinions, to analyze current events, and to think strategically. This is precisely what our alma mater teaches,” the diplomat noted. He also highlighted other advantages of MGIMO graduates, including a strong corporate identity, a fundamental understanding of global processes, in-depth regional expertise, and excellent foreign language skills.
At the conclusion of the official opening ceremony, Mr. Sakhmetov and Mr. Melnik were presented with letters of gratitude from the Rector of MGIMO University Anatoly Torkunov, along with commemorative gifts.
The core program of the workshop was practice-oriented. Elizaveta Rudenko, Head of International Marketing, delivered a presentation on the university, during which participants learned about the history, traditions, and educational opportunities of the alma mater of future global leaders. Sofia Melnikova, lecturer at the Department of Diplomacy and a research fellow at the Institute of International Studies, gave a lecture titled “Training Diplomats and International Affairs Specialists in the 21st Century: MGIMO’s Approach and the Architecture of the Future,” and also introduced the School of International Relations. Maria Utkina, lecturer at the Department of Comparative Political Science and Deputy Dean of the School of Governance and Politics, presented a lecture on “Political Leadership in the Modern Era: Skills, Competencies, and Communication Strategies,” along with the educational programs offered by her school. Yulia Popel, analyst with the International Marketing Group, conducted interactive sessions using modern digital formats: participants took part in a quiz on Russia-Kazakhstan relations and used a chatbot to complete the “Sorting Hat” test, designed to help identify the most suitable field of study at MGIMO. In conclusion, all participants of the event received memorable souvenirs as gifts — MGIMO branded merchandise, as well as traditional Kazakhstani chocolate.
We extend our gratitude to the Russian Embassy in Kazakhstan and “Astana” Diplomatic Club for their comprehensive support in organizing and hosting the event.