The U.S. Consul General in Almaty, Ms. Michelle Erkin, arrived in Kazakhstan on a diplomatic mission in August 2023. This marks her second overseas assignment as an American diplomat in the Republic of Kazakhstan — her first appointment abroad was in Almaty in 2003. However, the career officer of the U.S. State Department has an even closer connection to our country — her husband, Zhomart, is originally from Kazakhstan, and together they have four children. On the YouTube channel Forbes Kazakhstan, Michelle Erkin shares insights about her family, the work of the American diplomatic mission in the republic, and the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States.
The Consul General noted that over the past 20 years, since her first visit to Almaty in 2003, the city has undergone significant changes.
“I was particularly impressed by the development of infrastructure, such as the pedestrian zone on the terrenkur and a similar area near the Yesentai River. The number of high-rise buildings has significantly increased,” Michelle Erkin shared her impressions.
Speaking about how her family reacted to their return to Kazakhstan, the diplomat mentioned that her husband Zhomart was the happiest, as he was born in Almaty.
“For us, this has become a dream assignment, and we were very happy to return. The children are eager to learn more about Kazakh culture, study the Kazakh language, and they are really enjoying their time here; they are having a lot of fun,” added the featured guest.
She also explained why she chose to adopt a Kazakh surname: “This is the name of Zhomart's father, which he took as his surname. We liked how it sounds and that it is easy to pronounce. Additionally, I am very inspired by the meaning of this word in Kazakh — 'freedom' or 'independence.' The main goal of the U.S. mission in Kazakhstan is to support the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Kazakhstan. Therefore, I think it is very symbolic that we chose this surname. It is a wonderful connection I have with the people of Kazakhstan,” Michelle Erkin explained.
The Consul General also shared which Kazakh customs they observe in their family. According to her, much of this was facilitated by her mother-in-law, who has lived with them for over 10 years.
“My mother-in-law taught our children some Kazakh traditions. For instance, we held the тұсаукесу ceremony with our son. We also frequently fry baursaks and shelpeks on Friday evenings. We preserve many traditions,” added the diplomat.
For more details on this and much more, watch the latest episode on the YouTube channel Forbes Kazakhstan.