Portraits from ATU

Kazakhstan

Aina Karashasheva

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello dear colleagues, my name is Aina Karashasheva. I’m glad to greet you all and be part of the ATU Duty Free team. 

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I’m a Sales and Payment Consultant at ATU Duty Free and also proud to be a Chanel Brand Ambassador. I help customers enjoy the best shopping experience, share product knowledge, and guide them to discover the spirit and timeless values of Chanel . Recently, I was selected for the ATU Style Sales Trainer role, and I’m really excited to begin my training and develop my skills further. 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I love my home, Kazakhstan, and enjoy living in Almaty —it’s such an active and vibrant city. But recently I had a business trip to Paris, and it inspired me a lot. For the sake of growth, new opportunities, and career development, I would love to experience living in other European countries —and even beyond.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Since joining this company, I feel that I have been evolving and changing a lot. I wouldn’t want to change any specific characteristics , but I would like to continue developing them and add new ones. I would like to become a strong leader, more confident, self-aware, and mature in my decisions, embracing every opportunity to learn and grow. 

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I’m most proud of being ambitious, positive and always eager to develop and improve. I love that I’m constantly exploring new opportunities, especially in my career, and that I never stay in one place but keep moving forward.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Sometimes I fear that I wake up one day and realize that I have missed out on  close people and let opportunities pass by because of fear or other mistakes. That’s why I always try to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and learn from everything I do.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I wish I had a phenomenal memory — like a superpower. It would not only help me in my career, but also let me learn more about the world, broaden my horizons, learning languages and build deeper connections with people. Being able to remember and recall things easily would make every experience more meaningful, enjoyable and useful in everyday life. 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

My favorite historical hero is Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. She created such a legendary brand that remains iconic and loved around the world to this day. I admire her for transforming fashion, breaking norms, and fearlessly following her vision. She inspires me to believe in myself, express who I am, and be bold and confident in pursuing my goals.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I really appreciate friends who are supportive, kind, honest and energizing to be around. I value those who encourage me to grow, share laughter in everyday moments, and stand by me through challenges. Having friends like this makes life brighter, more meaningful, and inspires me to be a better person.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I would like to never be afraid, to believe in myself more, speak with confidence, be wiser in my decisions. I think, it is not something you need to change, it will come naturally with experience 

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I love dancing because it keeps me energized, lets me express myself creatively, boosts my confidence, and helps me stay fit and healthy. Also I enjoy singing, it allows me to relax and recharge, enjoy the moment, and connect with my own energy and emotions.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I try not to dwell on regrets. I believe that everything, whether good or bad, happens for a reason and brings valuable lessons. Even challenging or difficult experiences teach me something important. Every experience helps me grow and shapes who I am today.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

I feel happiest when I’m with my family and friends. Just being together, sharing moments, laughing, or simply enjoying each other’s company fills me with joy and makes me appreciate life even more. Those moments remind me what truly matters.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

I don’t have a specific slogan that motivates me, but what inspires me most is recognizing the progress I’ve made so far. Seeing what I’ve achieved gives me confidence that I can accomplish even more, and motivates me to keep pushing forward and growing both personally and professionally.