NU’s Astana Ball Celebrates 10 Years of Tradition and Charity
This year, the annual Astana Ball, Nazarbayev University’s hallmark charitable event, celebrated its 10th anniversary, bringing together students, faculty, and guests for an evening of elegance, art, and community spirit.
Over the past decade, the Ball has become one of the University’s most anticipated traditions, gathering more than 5,000 attendees each year and transforming the campus into a dazzling celebration of culture and creativity.
The audience was captivated by the performances of student clubs, including NU Orchestra, NU Choir, NU Dance Club, NU YBS K-pop Cover Dance Club, NU Vocal Club, and musical groups The Lick and Svann. The highlight of the evening was the debut of sixteen student couples, who charmed everyone with a graceful waltz performance.
“I want to tell you, hand on heart, that there is no other university with this level of talent — the ability to excel academically while enjoying a cultural life any university in the world would be proud of,” said NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad.
The event also featured welcoming remarks from Provost Rehan Sadiq, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Loretta O’Donnell, Vice President Kadisha Dairova, and other members of the University leadership, who commended the organizers and emphasized the importance of maintaining this meaningful tradition.
The Astana Ball has a deeply charitable mission. Over the past two years, organizers have raised more than 4 million tenge to support those in need. This year, the funds will go toward the treatment of a patient with a brain tumor, whose monthly therapy costs range between 1 and 1.5 million tenge.
Photo: NU Image
