European School Students Shine at the Festival of Hope
4th CCAAIBWS Conference | Astana, Kazakhstan
Inspiring Leadership at the Festival of Hope
Nineteen students from the European School’s MYP and DP/CP programmes proudly represented our community at the Festival of Hope, part of the 4th CCAAIBWS Conference held in Astana, Kazakhstan. Throughout the festival, they showcased outstanding leadership, creativity, and collaboration, driving home the belief that young people are powerful agents of positive change.
The students embodied the core values of the European School—compassion, international mindedness, and service learning. Their thoughtful presentations on community service projects and innovative initiatives left a lasting impact on festival participants and demonstrated the true spirit of global citizenship.
Broadening Horizons Through Educational Visits
Beyond the festival, students had the invaluable opportunity to deepen their educational perspectives by visiting some of Astana’s most prestigious institutions, including QSI International School of Astana, Astana International School, and Nazarbayev University (NU).
They were particularly impressed by the NU’s state-of-the-art learning environments, advanced research facilities, and the inspiring commitment to innovation and excellence that characterize these institutions.
Immersing in Kazakh Culture
To better understand Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage, the students also participated in a range of cultural activities.
They explored the vibrant art and history museums, attended a magnificent performance at the Astana Opera, and admired the city’s remarkable architecture, visiting landmarks such as the Baiterek Tower and iconic public squares.
One of the highlights of their stay was a traditional Kazakh dinner at a local restaurant, where students not only savored authentic cuisine but also enjoyed live performances of traditional Kazakh music, offering a firsthand glimpse into the nation’s cultural heart.
A Lasting Impact
The week in Astana was more than a conference trip—it was a transformative journey.
Students returned not only with certificates and memories but with new perspectives on leadership, global citizenship, culture, and education.
Their participation in the Festival of Hope reinforced the idea that young people are not just future leaders—they are today’s changemakers, capable of shaping a more compassionate and interconnected world.
The European School community is incredibly proud of their achievements and confident that the experiences gained during their stay in Astana will continue to inspire their personal and academic growth.
Congratulations to our MYP and DP/CP students for representing the European School with such distinction, energy, and spirit!
