“I always wanted to bring more constructiveness, evidence, and in general, common sense into policy making…”. From this simple but powerful desire, Tlegen Kuandykov’s journey into the world of think tanks began.
Tlegen Kuandykov is currently the Programme Coordinator at CAPS Unlock (Central Asian Policy Studies Unlock), an independent think tank based in Kazakhstan that produces policy-relevant research and fosters dialogue on Central Asia’s interconnected challenges. Its work covers areas such as regional cooperation, climate change, foreign policy, digitalisation, AI governance, and education. With a background in research, Tlegen has spent the past year driving transformative changes at CAPS Unlock, working to position the organisation as the leading source of credible, reliable, and evidence-based information in the region.
Tlegen joined the 2025 School for Thinktankers and is now a proud member of its alumni community.
Like many young professionals, Tlegen’s motivation to work in the think tank space stemmed from a deep concern for the future of his country and the world. This concern evolved into a desire to make a difference:
“I always wanted to bring more constructiveness, evidence, and in general, common sense into policy making, to make it more research-based, to avoid arbitrary decision making, and to substantiate it with policy evidence.” At CAPS Unlock, he found a space where ideas could be translated into action to support governments, policymakers, and stakeholders across Central Asia. “Eventually, I found myself in the think tank sector, where my motivation was transformed into real work. Yes, there are some questions as to whether we are impactful and how good we really are in making the world a better place, but at least this drives us (…) It is very important for us that the public good is at the core of our actions.”
When he began his journey at CAPS Unlock, Tlegen’s understanding of think tank operations was fragmented. He sought clarity on how to structure teams, build strategic partnerships, and better align research with communications to increase impact. “Even if I had a lot of knowledge about how think tanks operate at least regionally, I still had many questions: How to build a strong organisation? How to build workflows? What can be the impact of the work we do?” These were the questions that led him to the School for Thinktankers. “I was just looking for a clearer framework on how to build a modern, agile, and impactful think tank that functions well inside.” The School provided him with just that, helping him build a stronger foundation in three key areas: structuring internal workflows, developing integrity policies, and identifying meaningful ways to measure and pursue impact.
Tlegen also found something more: a global community of peers and mentors.
“The school makes you think out of the box. You talk with peers of other organisations that have not 10 but 20 years of institutional memory. They can all share with you how your think tank can improve.” He adds: “The school is of course about gaining skills, but it is also about building community. OTT is the one organisation that connects thinktankers from around the world. Even though we don’t chat like every week or month with each other, we just know we are there, always ready to support and help each other. And this is just incredible value that OTT brings.”
The knowledge Tlegen gained from the School continues to shape his work, often in subtle but powerful ways through insights shared by trainers and peers. He believes the full impact of the experience will unfold over time, but already sees how the programme has sharpened his thinking and elevated his professional approach.
When asked to summarise his experience in three words, Tlegen chose: connected, inspired, and prepared. “Connected, because it was a safe environment with the same open-minded people, from the same sector, and I knew I would be understood, despite us all coming from different parts of the world. Inspired: Many people who work in the think tank sector are mission-driven. We all want to achieve a social change; this is why the inspirational element of the School is very important. Prepared: to drive the organisation forward and face the challenges we already have. The School helps you build these muscles to deal with your daily and larger challenges.”
His message to future participants is clear: “There is no better place for you to connect with think tank professionals than OTT activities. So, take your chance, take your time, be there, and meet the peers from around the world, and you will see that it will benefit your daily operations a lot. And especially if you are a young professional who has just started your career, it will add an extremely valuable experience for you and your organisation.”
Looking ahead, Tlegen envisions CAPS Unlock becoming the leading hub for evidence-based insights in Central Asia. The School has helped him take concrete steps in that direction, including the creation of a dedicated communications team and the strengthening of the research unit. He also aims to foster greater regional collaboration between think tanks to stimulate dialogue and drive policy change across Central Asia.
Tlegen joined the School with questions. He left with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. For those ready to lead with vision, the School for Thinktankers is waiting.