Founded in 2002 by Lola Karimova and her husband, Timur Tillyaev, the You Are Not Alone Foundation (YANAF) is known  for its innovative programs which help disabled and vulnerable children in Uzbekistan. The foundation initially focused on refurbishing orphanages in the country, but as Lola and Timur’s expertise developed so did the scope of YANAF’s  operations.  Nowadays, the foundation  designs and constructs purpose-built facilities from the ground-up. Lola and Timur also hire highly trained professionals to provide support to  the children. Lola said:

“I am grateful for the opportunity You Are Not Alone has had to improve living and studying conditions for many orphaned children. Today, many Mercy Homes in Uzbekistan have the  facilities they need to provide a healthy atmosphere in which children can grow and develop.  I am hopeful that these improvements will support Mercy Homes and their ability to raise children in a loving and caring environment, providing them with a solid foundation for future.”

The foundation is also involved in providing healthcare services. To assist existing institutions, YANAF provides healthcare workers with medical equipment. The State Perinatal Centre in Tashkent was provided  new pieces of equipment including  x-ray systems, cardiac monitors and ultrasound machines. This  brought immediate improvement in patient care, especially the care provided to new-borns and their mothers.

You Are not Alone has also partnered with French NGO,  Associaiton La Chaîne de l’Espoir (Chain of Hope) which specializes  in the treatment of acute cardiac conditions. By teaming up together, they have been able to treat over 130 Uzbek children with serious heart conditions.  Where conditions are more severe, You Are not Alone pays for patients to be flown to France and the foundation ensures they receive the best care possible.

The foundation also has a long-standing relationship with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Public Health.  Together they provide regular medical check-ups for children in orphanages across the country and help treat any medical conditions which may be identified.

YANAF also recognizes the importance of education. In 2003, Lola and Timur opened the Educational Centre which works in tandem with YANAF .  If offers a range of programs which aim to improve educational outcomes for vulnerable children which includes orphans and children  with learning disabilities.  Since its inception, 2,500 students have been enrolled in the Educational Centre, with a significant number having  gone on to university.

Through their philanthropic work, Lola Tillyaeva and Timur Tillyaev are providing vulnerable children in Uzbekistan the resources they need to live a fulfilling life.