The story of Oxana Belonozhkina is a compelling example of how English language skills can open new doors and create opportunities for young professionals aiming to drive change in science and leadership. Raised in Aktau, a city on Kazakhstan’s Caspian coast in the Mangystau region – a land rich in geological heritage and spiritual resilience – Oxana was shaped by her surroundings.

From a young age, she dreamed of uncovering the Earth’s secrets and making discoveries that would benefit both science and her country. Her goal was clear: to stand at the crossroads of science, leadership, and progress.Oxana recognized early on that English proficiency was essential for advancing in the global scientific community. Yet, despite years of formal study, she lacked the confidence to express herself clearly and professionally in high-stakes academic and leadership settings.

“Though I had studied English for many years, I struggled with self-expression, particularly in scientific and leadership contexts,” Oxana recalls. “I feared making mistakes and sounding ‘less than professional.”

To overcome this challenge, in September 2023, she joined the C5+O.N.E. (Opening Networks through English) program – a regional initiative supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. Designed to enhance English proficiency among early- to mid-career professionals from the government, civil society, and private sectors across Central Asia, the program goes far beyond traditional language instruction. It strengthens regional connectivity and builds lasting links between Central Asian professionals and U.S. experts, institutions, and networks – helping young professionals become the next generation of leaders, while enhancing collaboration and shared growth between the region and the United States.

Oxana was an exceptionally committed participant. With a strong background in geology and a clear vision for her professional growth, she immersed herself in the program sessions and collaborative learning activities. Over time, she experienced a shift – not only in language skills, but in mindset.

“C5+O.N.E. transformed my relationship with English. I began speaking not as a student, but as a professional – with confidence. The program reshaped how I see myself and gave me the tools to share my expertise with the world,” she says.

Her dedication paid off. Oxana earned the prestigious Bolashak Scholarship, securing a place in a Master’s program in Petroleum Geoscience and Energy Transition in the United Kingdom. Among thousands of applicants across Kazakhstan, she stood out not only for her scientific background but also for her improved English communication skills, significantly developed through C5+O.N.E.

“C5+O.N.E. didn’t just teach me English – it helped me find my voice as a woman, a scientist, and a leader. It prepared me mentally and linguistically. I improved my IELTS score, wrote a strong personal statement, and most importantly – I believed I was good enough.”

Oxana’s journey shows that when young people are given the tools, support, and belief in their potential, they don’t just succeed – they begin to lead.

“I want my story to inspire young people, especially girls from the regions: you don’t have to be born in the center to become the center of change,” Oxana says.

She works as a geology expert at KMG Engineering KazNIPImunaigas LLP and dreams of leading national projects in geology and energy as well as starting a training and mentorship center for young professionals in the field – especially women. Her vision is to build an ecosystem of science, youth empowerment, and energy innovation in Kazakhstan.

Through programs like C5+O.N.E., the U.S. Government is helping shape a new generation of professionals – not just with stronger English skills, but with stronger voices. These initiatives build confidence, strengthen regional connectivity, and deepen engagement with U.S. professional networks, laying the groundwork for lasting cooperation and shared progress between Central Asia and the United States.

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