«Profession as a Life Mission»

On April 1, 2026, at the Abai Kazakh National Pedagogical University, as part of the Science Decade, a meeting was held on the initiative of Nurzhamal Shengelbayeva, Senior Lecturer, Candidate of Philological Sciences of the Department of Oriental Philology and Translation at the Faculty of World Languages. The guest of the event was public figure, professional translator, and Harvard University graduate Shyngys Mukan. The meeting was held under the theme “Profession as a Life Mission.” The event was attended by the Dean of the Faculty, Y. Ospanov, Doctor of Philological Sciences, Professor A. Zhumabekova, Head of the Department K. Abdrakhmanova, members of the teaching staff, as well as students majoring in Translation Studies.

The Director of the Mazmundama Publishing House and translator Shyngys Mukan met with the students and shared his life journey and professional experience. In addition, he gave an engaging account of the knowledge he acquired at one of the world’s leading educational institutions – Harvard University – as well as the insights and experience he gained in that academic environment. During the meeting, the speaker emphasized that the concept of a “profession” should be viewed not only as a source of income, but also as a person’s life mission. According to him, only by choosing a path aligned with one’s abilities and interests can an individual truly benefit society.

Shyngys Mukan encouraged young people to pursue continuous self-development and to acquire new knowledge and skills. The event was held in an informal format, allowing participants to ask questions of interest and receive thoughtful, in-depth answers. Particular attention was drawn to topics such as studying abroad, the specifics of translation as a profession, and personal development. In conclusion, it is worth noting that such meetings with experienced professionals are not only a valuable source of information, but also an important opportunity for both professional and personal growth.