Asel Bektenova comes from a family of educators who have made significant contributions to the development of education in Kyrgyzstan. Drawing on her diverse experience across various sectors, she now leads Teach For Kyrgyzstan, a program dedicated to introducing innovative approaches and methodologies into the education system.

Her deep understanding of the challenges faced by rural schools, gained through her work as a key figure in the USAID-supported Decentralization and Local Self-Government Program, has highlighted the transformative power of community engagement. The decision to establish Teach for Kyrgyzstan was driven by Asel's extensive experience in senior-level management of complex multi-donor projects focused on development and good governance. She also brings vast expertise in training professionals across public, municipal, and private sectors, all of which shape her vision for educational reform in Kyrgyzstan.