As a young and talented artist from Aktobe, she entered the IT field with the help of the Tech Orda program from Astana Hub

Hello, tell us about yourself: what do you do, your education, work experience, etc.

Hi! My name is Elvira Maratkyzy. I have over 13 years of experience in the field of fine arts, and during this time I have been fully dedicated to educating creative young minds as an art teacher. I am also a member of the Union of Artists of Kazakhstan.

Throughout my professional journey, I have not limited myself to just traditional art. I have embraced new directions by organizing and developing a 3D art club. I believe this offers children and youth a great opportunity to enhance their creative thinking in line with modern demands.

For me, art is not just a profession - it is a calling. I do my work with love, and my main goal is to help each student discover their artistic potential.

How did you find out about the Tech Orda program?

I first heard about the Tech Orda program through social media. Later, during the August education conference, Yermekzhan Kartzhanov came and gave a detailed presentation about the opportunities provided by Astana Hub and the Tech Orda program. He explained that the project’s main goal is to improve digital literacy and attract young people to the IT sector. After that, I explored the official websites and media materials and became very interested in the opportunity to gain IT knowledge and a new profession in a short time.

How did you win the grant?

After submitting my application to the Tech Orda program, I had an interview with Yermekzhan and Almaz Eleuov. During the interview, we discussed my motivation, why I was interested in the program, and my plans for the future.

They asked specific questions about my creative background, experience, and interest in IT. Almaz asked what kind of base knowledge I had in the field. I shared information about my current work, my creative activities, and how I work with students. Almaz looked at my portfolio, we discussed my work, and found a lot in common in our creativity. I explained that for me, this program was a great chance to combine creativity with modern technology.

How was the learning process organized?

The lessons were conducted in a hybrid format - both online and offline. We completed exercises, project work, and practical assignments. Whenever I had difficulties, Mr. Almaz Eleuov gave me personal attention, offered one-on-one sessions, and explained everything in detail. I am very grateful for his professional guidance and patience.

I also express my gratitude to the CEO of the Almaz Games School, Yermekzhan, for his support.

How are you applying the knowledge you gained?

The knowledge I gained through the Tech Orda program is directly applied in my professional life. Since I work in creative education, the IT skills I’ve acquired - especially in graphics and 3D modeling - allow me to modernize the learning process through technology.

As the head of the 3D art club, I teach students how to use modern digital tools, helping them realize their potential and guiding them toward future IT careers. I aim to share my knowledge by organizing special courses, running clubs, and teaching through online platforms.

This knowledge is not just important for me but also for my students and future generations. My goal is to develop a creative environment that merges art with technology.

What are you currently working on?

I currently work as an art teacher at the “Creativity Academy.” At the same time, I lead a 3D art club where I teach children and teenagers digital drawing, the basics of 3D modeling, and modern graphic design. I am doing my best to enhance their creative abilities and prepare them for the digital world.

What are your future plans? Would you like to continue learning?

Absolutely. I plan to deepen the knowledge I gained through Tech Orda and continue my professional development in the IT field. I aim to improve my skills in 3D modeling, animation, and game design.

One of my biggest goals is to create author’s courses for children and teenagers that combine creativity and digital technologies. I also dream of launching a professional-level center within my own Creativity Academy to teach digital art and 3D design - even making it accessible for talented youth in rural areas.

I believe that only through continuous learning, openness to innovation, and hard work can one achieve meaningful results.

Thank you for the interview, Elvira, we wish you creative success and career development in modern digital technologies!