At the event, 17 outstanding individuals and organizations from the member countries of CAREC were awarded for their achievements in gender equality and green technologies in 2025.
The awards are given for various initiatives, such as training women in solar energy and opening the first zero-waste store in Central Asia, highlighting the importance of connecting gender equality with environmental innovations.
The CAREC Award for "Gender Equality and Green Innovations" is presented to those who actively promote gender equality through sustainable technologies and innovative solutions.
This year, seven individuals and ten organizations became laureates, demonstrating how innovative approaches can not only combat climate change but also empower women and local communities.
Samantha Hoon, Director of the Gender Equality Department at the Asian Development Bank, praised the perseverance and creativity of the awardees, who help their communities tackle environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
"Today we celebrate the courage and creativity of seven laureates and ten organizations that are pioneers in their fields. Their impressive work helps address climate issues and creates a more sustainable future with a focus on gender equality. Their leadership is an example of how empowering women can lead to more inclusive and effective climate solutions," she noted.
The award ceremony was also attended by Sultan Akhmatov, Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce, and Dinara Kemelova, Special Representative of the President for the implementation of the Five-Year Action Plan for the Development of Mountain Regions.
Akhmatov emphasized: "The laureates we honor today are a vivid example of how creativity, dedication, and leadership can contribute to both environmental sustainability and development. Your work demonstrates that empowering women and supporting innovation go hand in hand, and that true progress benefits both people and our planet."
Dinara Kemelova added: "Mountains teach us to be stronger and more resilient, and dedication inspires others to continue the fight for gender equality and sustainable development in our region."
In the individual category, seven laureates received awards this year.
From Azerbaijan, Firuzа Sultan-zade, head of the public association "Social and Ecological Center NGO 'EcoSphere,'" was recognized for her work in engaging youth in environmental decision-making through educational activities.
Guanhua He from the People's Republic of China, a deputy of the National People's Congress, was awarded for promoting women's leadership in green energy by implementing innovative technologies and training over 300 women.
Gulsara Akanova from Kazakhstan was recognized for her contribution to sustainable technologies and gender inclusivity in the "Kaz-REEcycling" project, which recycles electronic waste, inspiring women to pursue STEM disciplines.
Ayjan Chynybaeva, Tara Uzra Daud from Pakistan, Gulshat Petrosova from Turkmenistan, and Dilorum Faizieva from Uzbekistan were also nominated for their work in gender equality and green initiatives.
Among the organizations, the winners were:
CLIMASEL from Azerbaijan, awarded for developing eco-friendly cooling technologies and promoting women's leadership; Shaanxi Gender Development Solution from the People's Republic of China for inclusive development programs; JSC Microbank Crystal from Georgia for integrating social and environmental principles into its services; LLP "HelloEco" from Kazakhstan for creating the first zero-waste store; URECA LLC from Mongolia for implementing clean energy solutions; and the National Rural Support Program from Pakistan for developing sustainable communities and women's leadership.
The microcredit fund "IMON" from Tajikistan was awarded for financing women entrepreneurs in sustainable agriculture, while "Mirasly Senet" from Turkmenistan was recognized for preserving cultural heritage and supporting women's leadership.
The Social Protection and Ecology Center "Shijoatli Ayol" from Uzbekistan also received an award for supporting vulnerable populations, and "Brainbox Syndicate," operating in several countries in the region, was recognized for supporting women's leadership in green technologies.
The laureates were selected from over 200 candidates from the member countries of CAREC.
