• ESTYIN KEREK is the first online mental health community in the Kazakh language, dedicated to empowering teenagers and young adults to overcome mental health challenges. It started as a small idea - a wish to create a safe space where people could share common struggles and support each other’s well-being. Today, it stands as a message to Kazakh-speaking youth: “You are heard, you are seen, and someone out there cares deeply about your well-being.”

    As the founder, my role spans several areas. I manage the overall direction of the community and take charge of content creation. Every week, my team and I craft Instagram posts filled with affirmations, practical tips, inspiring quotes, and personal stories that resonate with our audience. Beyond that, I engage directly with our community members, listening to their feedback and ensuring our platform remains a supportive and safe space for open dialogue.

    • Breaking the Stigma: Challenges and Approach

    One of our toughest challenges has been tackling the stigma surrounding mental health in Kazakh-speaking communities. Conversations about anxiety, depression, or the pressures of studying abroad were rare and often avoided. We knew that to make a difference, authenticity had to be at the heart of our approach. By sharing real stories and fostering genuine conversations, we’ve been able to slowly break down barriers and encourage people to talk openly about their struggles.

    • Empowering Change: Goals and Impact

    Our ultimate goal is to create a ripple effect - empowering individuals who then inspire their friends and family to seek help or discuss their mental health openly. Success for us isn’t just about numbers; it’s in the heartfelt stories our community shares. Knowing that we’ve helped someone find comfort or courage through our platform makes all the effort worthwhile.

    • The Podcast Journey

    As we grew, we saw the need for deeper, more meaningful conversations, which led us to launch our YouTube podcast. This platform allowed us to explore important topics such as dealing with anxiety during high school, the challenges of studying abroad, trafficking, and the experiences of being an international student. Starting the podcast came with its own set of challenges, from mastering the technicalities of recording and editing to finding the right guests. But the effort was well worth it. The positive response from our audience showed us that these deeper discussions were valuable and needed. Our podcast not only expanded our reach but also strengthened our impact, helping to build a more informed and supportive community.

    Check out a podcast about studying in Europe on the Stipendium Hungaricum here!

    • Reflections and Future Vision

    Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of the journey Estyin Kerek has taken. What began as a small Instagram account has blossomed into a community that’s breaking barriers and making a real difference in people’s lives. This journey has been one of growth, learning, and impact, and I’m excited about the future. We’re committed to continuing our mission, one story, and one conversation at a time.