The fifth anniversary Voices of Friends: Poetry & Art festival transformed Kazakhstan’s Burabay resort into a vibrant creative center of Eurasia. From November 29 to December 2, authors, artists, musicians, and filmmakers from 20 countries shared their work, made new connections, and inspired each other to embrace bold ideas.
The Cinema Future youth film festival and BISFF introduced new names to the world. New book presentations by Hertfordshire Press, art dialogues, performances by the International Choir, and creative workshops at the ECG Horizons residency were all filled with energy and warmth.
At the gala evening, awards were given to those shaping the future of Eurasian culture, and the new leadership of the Eurasian Creative Guild (London) was announced, confidently paving the way to 2026.
Voices of the Festival
“Creativity knows no bounds. We speak dozens of languages—and still understand each other perfectly.”
Marat Akhmedjanov, founder of ECG (London)
“Burabay gave me a sense of home. Art here heals, warms, and unites.”
Natalie Thompson, poet and performer (UK/Belarus)
“Young directors from different countries are sharing the same screen. This is the birth of a new generation of cinema.”
Timur Akhmedjanov, director, BISFF jury member
“We see Eurasian creativity becoming a global voice. And this voice will only grow stronger.”
Francesca Mepham, Chairperson of ECG (London)
“These days have shown that the culture of the Turkic world is not only a legacy, but also a living future.”
Sultan Raev, Secretary General of TURKSOY
“The people who meet here are already changing the cultural landscape of the region. This is the beginning of a great story.”
Saltanat Khamzeyeva, Vice Chairperson of ECG (London)
The festival was supported by Burabay hotel venues and partners, volunteers, and those who believe that art creates a space where friendship, ideas, and new horizons are born.
