Today was a perfect example of how impactful connections—and good food—can shape a mission-driven journey.

We started the day with a productive meeting at Almaty Management University (AlmaU), where we met with Kuanysh Abeshev, the AlmaU Dean School of Digital Technologies, an expert in educational technologies and a strong supporter of student-led innovation. Our conversation focused on refining the technical aspects of the Save Tuba app and exploring a potential collaboration between AlmaU’s and Lehigh University’s tech teams. This could mark an exciting step forward in developing a more robust, localized platform that integrates feedback directly from the classrooms where Save Tuba is used. Kuanysh offered valuable insights on app scalability and user experience.

Later in the afternoon, we took a break from working in the basement (our makeshift office!) and joined Professor Dinara’s Sustainable Economies class alongside the amazing AlmaU students we’ve been collaborating with. Experiencing their passion and curiosity in an academic setting was both refreshing and inspiring. It reminded us why we’re here: to co-create a program that empowers the next generation of climate champions through education.

We then finally got the chance to eat lunch at a nearby cafe, Arizona Coffee. We ordered pizza, ramen, cheesecakes, and lemonade and it was all mouthwateringly delicious. We definitely want to come back again before we leave.

We wrapped up the day with a well-deserved team dinner at a cozy Korean restaurant nearby. The food was phenomenal, and the bingsu—a sweet, snowy mountain of delight—did not disappoint. 🍧 Conversations flowed easily, filled with laughs, reflections on the day, and even a few brainstorms for what’s next.

As we continue to grow Save Tuba’s presence in Kazakhstan, days like these reinforce the importance of building strong relationships—not just between institutions, but also between people. Whether it’s in a classroom, a conference room, or over shared dessert, collaboration is the fuel behind our mission.

Stay tuned—more exciting updates ahead!