Over 3,000 join charity marathon to raise autism awareness in Kazakhstan

Annual ‘Run for Autism’ draws participants from across Kazakhstan and abroad to promote inclusion and mental health

ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — More than 3,000 runners gathered in Astana this week for the third annual “Run for Autism,” a charity marathon aimed at raising awareness about autism spectrum disorders and mental health challenges. The event, organized by the Bolashak Foundation, also saw remote participation from cities across Kazakhstan and major international hubs.

Runners joined not only from Almaty, Karagandy, Pavlodar, Zhanaozen, Zhezkazgan, Oral, and Petropavl, but also from cities such as London, Moscow, and Istanbul — a sign of the marathon’s growing global reach.

According to Silk Way TV, a Kazakhstani broadcaster covering the event, this year’s race placed a renewed focus on inclusion, with participants of diverse abilities, including individuals with hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, and autism.

“It’s not just people with special needs taking part. People with hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, and autism are running, along with many representatives from foreign companies and diplomatic missions,” said Dinara Gaplan, Chair of the Board of Trustees at the Bolashak Foundation. “The number of people joining our marathon is increasing because we are not just running — we are running with meaning.”

The funds raised through the charity race will go toward opening new inclusion support offices in Kazakhstan, offering resources and services for families and children affected by autism and related conditions.

Participants described the event as more than just a sporting challenge. “My son and I are participating in this race for the second time,” said Yeldos Imanbayev, a returning runner. “Events like this help raise public awareness and support parents raising children with special needs. It’s not just a sporting event, but also a platform for unity, understanding, and inspiration.”