On 10 December 2024 UNDP hosted a unique inclusive performance featuring 12 women with disabilities. Each of them shared their story of overcoming barriers associated with disability and gender discrimination. One of the heroines is the bright and versatile entrepreneur Nishana Zheenalieva, who owns a buffet and a small dining room.

“Creativity in everything”

Our heroine is a dynamic and driven individual with boundless energy and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. She successfully manages her own business, actively participates in various interest groups, and is a devoted mother to her son. Art holds a special place in her life, as Nishana expresses herself through drawing, playing the piano, and engaging with a vibrant club of entrepreneurs and active individuals. Inspired by one of the club's challenges, she took the bold step of opening a buffet. Encouraged by this new venture, she then decided to pursue her dream of performing on stage.

“No doubt about it”

The heroine eagerly accepted the invitation to participate in the play, without a hesitation. The creative world has always been a natural fit for her. In the past, she served as the deputy director of a theater, where she was deeply involved in numerous artistic initiatives and collaborations.

“I have always been looking for a place for creative expression, and this inclusive performance project felt lie a great opportunity,” shares Nishana.

She has never doubted her abilities. "That's how my mother raised me," she explains. "She always told me, 'You're ordinary, you can do it—don’t focus on your limitations. Act, try, and open up!' I went to an ordinary school, had ordinary friends. No one made a big deal out of me, so I never got used to doubting myself.”

“New acquaintances”

Rehearsals serve as a wellspring of inspiration for the heroine. She shares that what she enjoys most is the atmosphere of collaboration with both the participants and the director. "Each person is unique, unusual. They’re all so fascinating that you want to keep engaging with them over and over again,” she says.

Working with people with different types of disabilities was a new experience for her: “Before this, I had not had much contact with people with other disabilities. This is a new experience for me, and I feel comfortable among them. We are all on the same page.”

The sense of support is felt not only among the participants but also from the director. "She’s incredibly insightful and came up with a brilliant exercise. She asked us to close our eyes and try to move without sight. It was scary, but it really helped me understand people with sensory disabilities. Then, we covered our ears and tried to communicate. These exercises brought us closer and helped us connect on a deeper level.”

“A place of power and inspiration”

For a businesswoman constantly managing work challenges, participating in the inclusive performance has become a meaningful way to unwind and relieve stress. "Running a business comes with a lot of pressure and responsibility. But the theater has become my escape—a place where I can truly relax and just be myself,” she shares.

And although she is used to managing and making decisions, Nishana feels a special freedom on stage. “I love being on stage. I’m not sure how I’ll feel when I see a full audience, but I know I enjoy being an actress. I don’t just want to ‘play a role’—I want to share and show something meaningful. It’s amazing to have the chance to express your life and experiences to others!”

“The main message: don’t be afraid”

The heroine believes that participating in the play is not just an opportunity to open up to herself, but also a chance to share an important message with the audience. "Don't be afraid to open up, don't be afraid to show who you are, and don't be afraid to grow. Start your own business, step onto the stage, play the piano, get involved in theater! Even if you don't know how, just try. There are no limits—any limitations are in our minds. I have friends who are ready to help, and I’m sure everyone has someone who will support them. The most important thing is to act and not be afraid!”

When asked what she hopes the audience will take away from the play, her answer is simple: "I want them to realize that we are just like them. It's just as interesting for us to connect with them as it is for them to connect with us. We share the same dreams, desires, and aspirations.”

Nishana emphasizes that she has never felt limited, but she is well aware that many people with disabilities face significant challenges. "I’ve always been part of society, but I know that many others struggle. I want the audience to see and understand that,” she says.

She also expresses a desire to continue participating in theatrical projects. "I want to go on stage again and again. I want to keep uncovering my creative abilities and inner talents.” – shares Nishana.

In her view, it's essential to support people with disabilities during the development stage to help them discover their talents. "My mother always supported me, saying, 'You can do it, go ahead, and do it.' I want to offer the same encouragement to everyone.”

For Nishana, inclusive theatre is a space where barriers are dismantled, and new opportunities are created.

The production of the inclusive play Shire-Sherine was supported by UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic as part of the 16-day activism campaign Ending Gender-Based Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) 2024 (November 25 to December 10) and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3). The initiative aims to raise public awareness and address intersectional discrimination based on gender and disability.