Kazakhstan's bakers win top prize at GASTRO ANTALYA festival

Kazakhstan's Team Wins Gold at GASTRO ANTALYA International Festival

A team from Astana has claimed first place in the "Bakery" category at the GASTRO ANTALYA international festival, now in its sixth year as a premier gathering of the world's top chefs, pastry chefs, and bakers. The victory was announced by the press service of Astana's Technological College under the city akimat (administration), as reported by our website.

Over the years, GASTRO ANTALYA has grown into one of the most prestigious platforms in the culinary world, hosting over 4,000 professionals from 25 countries. Participants showcase cutting-edge techniques, national traditions, and the latest advancements in food production.

This year, Kazakhstan was represented by Baizhigit Bolyshan, a master instructor at Astana's Technological College, and his student, Lyazzat Aslankyzy. Their skill, precision, and creative approach impressed the judges, securing the Kazakh team the top spot ahead of formidable competitors from around the globe.

The win marks a significant milestone not only for the college but for Kazakhstan's entire vocational and technical education system.

To learn more about the journey to gold and what this success means for training young professionals, we spoke with Lyazzat Razbekova, director of Astana's Technological College.

According to Razbekova, the preparation for the competition was rigorous and demanding.

"We knew we were competing alongside the finest bakers from dozens of countries," she said. "That's why our training was daily and intense. Our master instructor, Baizhigit Bolyshan, and student Lyazzat Aslankyzy put in tremendous effort—this victory is the result of their discipline, perseverance, and determination to prove what Kazakh specialists can achieve."

She emphasized that the win was no accident but the logical outcome of the college's systematic work.

"Our institution prioritizes hands-on, practice-oriented learning," Razbekova explained. "We believe it's crucial for students not only to master techniques but also to approach their craft creatively and thrive in competitive environments. International competitions are the best way to test their skills."

Reflecting on the challenges, the director highlighted the festival's high standards.

"The competition was fierce," she noted. "Many teams presented intricate, high-level creations. But our participants struck the perfect balance between tradition, technology, and professional execution—and that set them apart."

Razbekova also underscored the importance of national identity in their work.

"We always tell our students: bring the spirit of Kazakhstan into what you do. Our products reflect national motifs, aesthetics, and respect for the craft. The international jury recognizes and values that character."

The victory at GASTRO ANTALYA opens new opportunities for the college.

"We've already received invitations to international projects and exchange programs," the director adds. "This not only enhances the prestige of our college but also elevates the entire system of vocational training in Kazakhstan."

She also had a message for future students:

"Don't be afraid of challenges. Baking is a craft that rewards persistence and attention to detail. If someone is truly passionate, they will succeed—our winners are proof of that."

The triumph at GASTRO ANTALYA is more than just a medal. It is recognition that Kazakhstan's baking school is competitive on a global scale.

The quality of our local specialists' work, their ability to blend technology with tradition, their creative approach, and professionalism—all of this makes Kazakhstani participants strong contenders on the world's gastronomic stage.