Conquering mountains and professional horizons: the story of Assel Bespayeva

How did your career begin?

My career started in 2009 at an auditing firm, but my real passion emerged when I transitioned to an investment brokerage company. At that time, automation was just emerging, and most of the work was done manually, including trade registrations. We were assigned challenging tasks, and we strived to implement them as efficiently as possible using our own resources. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in several major financial institutions, which allowed me to gain extensive experience. Today, I continue my journey at Fonte Capital Ltd, where I hold the position of Head of Back Office.

What do you consider key in managing the accounting of assets and client operations at Fonte Capital?

For me, accuracy, responsibility, and discipline are critical. Working with client assets requires complete transparency and integrity, as trust depends on these principles. It's also essential to ensure the reliability and efficiency of all processes so that the team can work cohesively and effectively.

At Fonte Capital, we value attention to detail and precise coordination, as our department plays a crucial role in supporting the business processes of other departments.

Fonte Capital recently launched an educational grant program where you serve as a speaker. Tell us about your module.

Yes, indeed, Fonte Capital has launched a unique educational program, “Tenger,” for financial industry professionals, and I am delighted to be a part of it. Together with my colleague, Gulden Bayuakova, we developed a course titled “Accounting for Financial Instruments.” This is one of the modules within the extensive "Tenger" program. In my module, I share practical knowledge accumulated over 14 years of experience.

We aim to ensure that our educational initiatives not only develop skills but also nurture a new generation of professionals ready to face market challenges.

How did your mountaineering journey begin, and what was your first experience like?

My first experience with mountaineering was in 2015 when I participated in an alpine ascent to Peak Abay. I didn’t make it to the summit that time. I began hiking regularly only in 2021. My daughter and I joined a mountain tourism club, spending every Sunday in the mountains or nature.

Over time, it became a family tradition: regardless of the weather—rain, snow, or cold—we would go hiking. During this period, we explored nearly all natural landmarks of Almaty and the Almaty region, climbed many small peaks, camped, and even traveled beyond the region. A year later, I realized I wanted to set more ambitious goals.

I found a guide and trainer and joined a new group where I connected with like-minded people who share my love for mountains and nature. A significant source of inspiration for me was Zhamilya Bashirova’s ascent of Mount Everest.

During this time, I conquered numerous mountain peaks, although much depended on weather conditions. Some routes I completed two or even three times. However, the turning point for me, as noted by my guide, was ascending Karnizny Peak (4075 m). This was a meaningful milestone that showed me I was ready for more challenging goals.

Which ascent has been the most meaningful to you, and why?

One of my latest achievements was reaching the summit of Mera Peak (6,476 m) in Nepal. On November 6, at 7:50 a.m., I stood at its peak.

The ascent began at 2:19 a.m., following a period of very bad weather. For two days, it had been snowing continuously with fog, and the night of the summit push was windy. We moved in rope teams: I followed directly behind the high-altitude guide, Lakpa Sherpa; my teammate, Sagi, was behind me; and our Nepali guide, Ongchhu Sherpa, brought up the rear.

It wasn’t easy. But one thing I knew for sure—I never once thought about turning back. I didn’t ask the guide how much further we had to go; I simply kept moving forward, waiting for the sunrise. I had to breathe only through my mouth. Mentally, I was prepared for everything: the cold, wind, and discomfort. The only concern I had was how my body would handle the altitude, as I had never been above 4,200 meters before.

My body began reacting when we climbed above 5,300 meters. My blood pressure spiked, my temperature dropped to 34.2°C, and my oxygen saturation was 73%. I experienced nausea and a pounding headache. Reaching the high-altitude camp at 5,800 meters was incredibly tough, but after some time, my condition stabilized.

The final 676 meters to the summit felt endless, but step by step, I reached my goal.

For me, this was a significant breakthrough in my mountaineering journey. At the summit, I proudly unfurled the Fonte Capital flag. I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to my supervisor, Pavel Afanasyev, and our CEO, Yerzhan Mussin, for their support.

Do you see parallels between mountaineering and your professional career, and how do they help you in your work?

Both in the mountains and at work, it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected, control your actions, and maintain focus. Mountaineering teaches you to handle pressure, accept circumstances as they are, and keep moving forward.

In work, as on a mountain route, success depends on discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to make well-thought-out decisions.

What motivates you to keep moving forward in both your career and hobbies?

I’m inspired by people who pursue their goals despite challenges, both professionally and in sports.

Mountains also motivate me. They’re my place of strength, where I can reflect, overcome myself, and enjoy nature’s beauty. Mountaineering helps me recharge emotionally and be more productive at work.

Additionally, I want to set an example for my daughter. I want her to see that a woman can be strong, independent, and ambitious. In the future, I dream of climbing a peak together, creating a lasting memory for both of us.

Do you have a motto that guides you in life?

God never gives us challenges we can’t overcome. The key is not to give up. Effort always leads to results.

Assel Bespayeva exemplifies someone who conquers peaks not only in the mountains but also in her professional life. Her story showcases how perseverance, discipline, and passion for one’s work can be the keys to success. She serves as an inspiration for those striving to balance work, hobbies, and personal growth.