The project, set up in the city of Almaty, in collaboration with local partners, focused on mental health services, medical referrals, and health education for vulnerable groups. This included the Kandastar community, ethnic Kazakhs who have returned to Kazakhstan after years or even generations of living abroad, primarily in countries such as China, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan.

Many Kandastar returnees faced challenges integrating into society in Kazakhstan, or suffered from mental health problems that developed during their emigrant life. In response, we provided them with individual mental health support and psychoeducation sessions, to help them cope with stress, trauma, and adjustment difficulties.  

Our team worked to strengthen their resilience by providing psychosocial support and promoting community-based support and mental health awareness among the Kandastar. We aimed to alleviate their trauma, and ensure they receive the care and support necessary to rebuild their lives.