In Central Asia’s emerging tech scene, Ainura Sagyn has become a leading voice for environmental innovation and social entrepreneurship. As the founder of Tazar, a green-tech platform that connects citizens and recyclers, Ainura blends technology, community action, and education to turn waste into opportunity. We talked to her about the origins of Tazar, the challenges of building a social venture in Kyrgyzstan, and what’s next for the platform.
The Spark of Inspiration💫
FM: Ainura, can you tell us about the origin of Tazar and what motivated you to start this project?
Ainura: I grew up seeing how waste accumulated in our neighborhoods and how little infrastructure existed to manage it properly. I studied computer engineering and wanted to apply technology to everyday problems. Tazar started as a simple idea: make recycling as easy as ordering a service. Over time it became an ecosystem — an app for locating collection points, a marketplace for eco-products, and a community platform for education.
Mission And Model💡
FM: What is the core mission of Tazar and how does the platform work?
Ainura: Our mission is to increase environmental participation by making recycling accessible and rewarding. The app helps users find local recycling points, schedule pickups, and discover eco-products from local women entrepreneurs through our “Tazar Bazaar.” We measure success not just by weight of recycled material, but by awareness and behavioral change — people choosing sustainability because it’s simple and beneficial.
Challenges & Growth🌠
FM: Early adopters often face trust issues. How did you handle skepticism?
Ainura: Trust was indeed the first big obstacle. People asked: “Will this actually work?” We focused on small, visible wins — local pilot neighbourhoods, community cleanups, murals made from collected bottle caps — so people could see results. Partnering with local NGOs and hosting hands-on events helped, too. Real change came when neighbors told neighbors about Tazar’s convenience and results.
Recognition & Reach🛣️
Q: What achievements make you most proud so far?
Ainura: Being listed among BBC’s 100 Inspirational Women in 2022 and winning the Aurora Tech Award were validating. Beyond that, reaching 6,200+ downloads for Tazar, helping remove over 20 tonnes of waste since 2020, and empowering dozens of women entrepreneurs through Tazar Bazaar are milestones I cherish.
Innovation & Community
Q: How do you involve community and creative innovation in your strategy?
Ainura: We run projects like making murals from collected bottle caps and hosting coding camps for girls. These do more than look nice — they build awareness, trust, and encourage participation, which are essential for growth.
The Road Ahead🌟
Q: What’s next for Tazar and your vision for the future?
Ainura: We plan to expand across Central Asia, integrate AI for better waste sorting, and use robotics in sorting centres. The long-term vision is a scalable system where sustainability is integrated in daily life, not just in startup circles.
💬 Final Thoughts:-
Ainura Sagyn’s mission with Tazar shows that meaningful innovation doesn’t require perfection from get-go — it requires relevance, impact, and tenacity. Tazar isn’t just an app; it’s a promise of cleaner environments and empowered communities.
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