Kazakhstan’s low-cost airline FlyArystan joined the annual Run for Autism charity race in Astana as an official partner, DKNews.kz reports.
The event, organized by the Bolashak Charity Public Foundation, took place at the Botanical Garden as part of World Autism Awareness Month.
Airline supports participants and prize fund
As part of its partnership, FlyArystan contributed to the event’s prize fund by providing round-trip flight certificates on the Astana – Batumi – Astana route.
The airline also arranged transportation for:
- children supported by the foundation
- accompanying family members
- invited guests from different regions of Kazakhstan
This support helped expand access to the event for participants from outside Astana.
FlyArystan highlights commitment to inclusion
Johan Eidhagen, President and Chief Executive Officer of JSC FlyArystan, said the partnership reflects the airline’s broader social mission.
“Our cooperation with the Bolashak Charity Foundation has enabled us to support a number of inclusive initiatives during Autism Awareness Month. Earlier, the airline also arranged flights for speakers participating in the Autism Talks meeting in Astana, thereby contributing to open dialogue and raising awareness of the topic. Supporting such projects reflects FlyArystan’s values and our consistent approach to fostering a more inclusive environment. As part of our inclusion efforts, the company also implements the ‘Komek’ programme, which offers discounted fares for passengers with disabilities, and we intend to continue delivering social initiatives in this area”.
The airline said it plans to continue developing initiatives aimed at accessibility and equal opportunity.
Foundation has supported inclusion for over 15 years
The Bolashak Charity Foundation has been working in inclusive education and social adaptation for more than 15 years.
Its projects help children and adults with developmental differences gain access to:
- education
- vocational training
- professional opportunities
- social integration
Organizers call event a growing movement
Dinara Gaplan, Chair of the Board of Trustees of Bolashak Charity, said the race has become much more than a sporting event.
“Run for Autism is a truly special event, as it brings together teenagers from our programs, their families, teachers, partners, and friends of the Foundation. That is why the run has long gone beyond being just an event and has grown into a meaningful movement, uniting people from different cities around a shared purpose. The support of our partners is especially important to us. We sincerely appreciate that FlyArystan continues to support our initiatives. Thanks to such companies and friends of the Foundation, Run for Autism becomes a genuine celebration of sport, kindness, and equal opportunities for everyone”.
Around 5,000 people joined the race
According to organizers, around 5,000 participants took part in the event.
Among them were:
- running enthusiasts
- families with children with special needs
- members of the inclusive community
- FlyArystan employees
- members of the FlyArystan Running Community
The strong turnout highlights growing public support for inclusion initiatives in Kazakhstan.
Funds to support training and integration
Money raised during the event will be directed toward vocational training programs for teenagers and adults with autism and other developmental conditions.
Funds will also support further social integration initiatives.
Why this matters
Events such as Run for Autism help raise awareness while providing practical support for inclusive programs.
For Kazakhstan, such partnerships between business and civil society can contribute to:
- stronger social inclusion
- wider public awareness
- support for families
- employment opportunities for people with disabilities
- more accessible community events
FlyArystan’s participation also reflects a broader trend of companies taking a more active role in social responsibility.
