Essay from G’ayratbek Toshmuxamedov

Young Central Asian man in a white collared shirt holding up a framed certificate standing next to two white-shirted older men.

The Remarkable Journey of an Aspiring Uzbek Youth: G’ayratbek Toshmuxamedov


G’ayratbek Toshmuxamedov, born on September 27, 2006, in Uzbekistan, is a talented and ambitious individual who has demonstrated excellence in both academics and athletics from a young age. His story reflects the spirit of the emerging generation of Uzbekistan—resilient, goal-oriented, and deeply committed to personal and national development.

From his early years, G’ayratbek showed great interest in sports and learning. His determination and hard work led him to achieve high honors in academic Olympiads, particularly in mathematics, physics, and information technology. He actively participated in numerous competitions and became a multiple-time winner, including twice securing first place in district-level IT Olympiads and once at the Andijan regional level.

His achievements in sports are equally impressive. G’ayratbek specialized in freestyle wrestling, where he earned several prestigious titles, including being a seven-time champion of the Andijan region, two-time champion of the Fergana Valley, and a national champion of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Additionally, he claimed multiple bronze medals at both regional and national levels. Expanding his athletic pursuits, he also trained in boxing and became the Uzbekistan boxing champion, while actively competing in tournaments held in Andijan.

However, in 2021, G’ayratbek faced a significant setback due to a physical injury, which forced him to temporarily step away from professional sports. Rather than allowing this challenge to halt his progress, he redirected his energy toward academics with even greater enthusiasm. This pivotal moment became a turning point in his life.

His academic journey is both rich and diverse. He began in a Russian-language school, later enrolling in a specialized institution focused on mathematics and physics. Eventually, he graduated from the Marhamat Specialized School under the Presidential Agency for Educational Institutions, an elite school dedicated to nurturing gifted students in Uzbekistan.

Currently, G’ayratbek is pursuing his undergraduate studies at Andijan State Institute of Technology, specializing in Information Systems and Technologies within the Faculty of Intelligent Control and Computer Systems. In addition to excelling in his studies, he actively engages in university life by organizing various events and intellectual competitions, demonstrating leadership and teamwork.

Despite his young age, G’ayratbek Toshmuxamedov embodies the qualities of a gifted programmer, a dedicated athlete, and a promising youth leader. His journey illustrates not only personal ambition but also the broader progress and aspirations of modern Uzbekistan. As he continues to grow and contribute to his community, his story serves as an inspiring example for other young people across the nation and beyond.

His academic interests, coupled with his discipline from sports, position him well for future achievements in both national and international arenas. G’ayratbek’s story is far from over—he is only at the beginning of a journey filled with potential and promise.

Poetry from Stephen Williams


The Way Out

1.)

Millions of lonely multi-colored eyes

searching the empty distances of sky,

such a flutter of eyelashes confused in the wind,

smog and fog and smoke of wars,

littering floating dust lands of clouds.

Stars no longer found

and the moon as a burp hole of the sun

for us to look upon and remember when.

2.)

Battle drums playing on every continent,

an endless pounding into a hardening hum.

How can prophets hear

if they’re too deaf to listen,

as missiles spear high and deep

digging into heaps of city graves.

Who can save

but only Him.

3.)

And then there’s the islands within the land,

singing families under tents of trees,

holding onto every Bible Page

showing the Eternal Way.

Essay from Jasmine Rashidov

Three young adults, two young women in blouses and one guy in a dark suit, seated at a table at a formal event representing their schools.

Many argue that the use of new technologies has become increasingly pervasive and has significantly altered how young people spend their leisure time. I strongly believe that the positive aspects outweigh the negatives.

First and foremost, many young individuals have become accustomed to using modern technologies, which has led to an improved lifestyle in various ways—such as access to online learning and productive screen time. These activities can often be monitored and controlled by parents, reducing potential risks. Nonetheless, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages.

On the other hand, excessive use of technology can expose youth to serious threats, such as cyberbullying or even influence from extremist content. For instance, a study conducted by specialists found that 89% of adolescents prefer to spend their free time online, which may increase their vulnerability to digital risks.

To conclude, although the use of modern technology can bring certain negative consequences, I firmly believe that the benefits—particularly in learning internationally recognized languages and gaining access to global knowledge—far outweigh the drawbacks.

My name is Jasmina Rashidova, a passionate and ambitious student born on November 23, 2008, in Shakhrisabz district, Kashkadarya Region, Uzbekistan!


I currently study at School No. 74. I have earned several educational grants and awards, and I am a finalist of competitions like BBG, FO, and VHG. I actively participate in international Model United Nations (MUN) conferences and lead my own educational channel — @JasminaRashidova_channel.

With a deep interest in leadership, public speaking, and writing, I continue to work hard toward achieving academic excellence and inspiring others in my community. A bright example for this can be about little Jasmine Rashidova — A finalist of StriveHub, LOT’2025, and CAMLP’25.

Poetry from Eva Petropoulou Lianou

Middle aged European woman standing outside on a lake beach on a sunny day. Water is behind her, trees and people on the shore.

A precious man

The nights and the days come and go without a smile

The days are so big without a smile

The nights are a waiting for a call or a message

It is so expensive this time away from your eyes.

You are my precious pearl..

A diamond hide in the mud..

Waiting the time to hug you and kiss you.

You are my treasure hidden from the sun

Waiting the day I meet you again..

Waiting your look..

Waiting your lips..

You are my precious pearl hidden in the oyster deep in the sea.

You are my precious man. 

….

You

My poem

You,

That the face I did not see for years

You

U are the most amazing being

But cannot touch

You,

The beauty is hiding in  small pieces in your body and mind

You,,

I can explain why

But i know my what

You

That one day u crossed my path

Forces of love or passion touched me

Without reason

I am looking the east

U are looking the west

Miracles happens every day

You

A passion I can live in a privately moment

Love I give

Love will never be understood

You…

In another space of galaxy

You

My ideal

My secret

Garden

You

The moments I never had

You

The distance between 2 countries

A bridge i will try to build to reach you

Good night poem

What a caterpillar maybe call the end

A butterfly call it the beginning of a beautiful journey…

The stars are so far but we can see the lights

And feel their heat

As i am thinking of you

Days and nights are together

No distance

Only sun

Only Moon

And for once they are together

In this beautiful sky

Thinking of you

The days

Think about you

My heart

My body

My soul

Wake up

And

Dance in a circle

Imagine u are here

Imagine u are close to me

Imagine our life starts

This is my wish

My prayer

As you are my hope

My inspiration

In those long years of loneliness…

Love poem

Your smile… 

I dream a future with you

I dream a blue sky

Sunset to a an island 

I dream a white house

And have a view to the sea 

I dream a future close to you.. 

And i get a bad dream

Sleeping alone

Feeling weak

But in my heart

i am not alone because i feel your heart beat

I feel your breath

Poetry from Shahzoda Ilnar qizi Allayarova

Young Central Asian girl with an embroidered headband and colored blouse in front of a construction paper mural.

If We Are United – We Are One Nation

People of all nations live in my land,

We are one soul, we are one body.

If we are united, we are one nation,

Together — a great and mighty country.

Our homeland is peaceful, our sky is clear,

Our tables are full of blessings.

In paradise-like Uzbekistan,

Every moment we live is filled with joy.

We are a hospitable and kind-hearted people,

Always ready to help our friends.

Compassion lives within our hearts,

Our love is like the oceans, vast and deep.

My chest is the sky, my pride is high,

My dreams reach the stars above.

In this world, there is only one —

I am a child of Uzbekistan!

We live with burning love for our homeland,

All nations, together as one.

If we are united, we are one nation,

Together — a great and mighty country!

Shahzoda Ilnar qizi Allayarova was born on May 16, 2013, in Oqtosh city, Narpay district, Samarkand region, Uzbekistan. She is currently a 5th-grade student (Class 5B) at School No. 55 in Oqtosh. Her literary works are regularly published in regional and national newspapers such as “Navqiron Narpay”, “Tong Yulduzi”, and “Bekajon”.

She won second place in the national competitions “Human Rights Through the Eyes of Children” organized by “Tong Yulduzi”, and “Protector of the Green Space” by “G’uncha” magazine. In 2023, she became a laureate and winner of the national “Kamalak Yulduzlari” Children’s Creativity Festival.

Her poems have also been featured in various anthologies including “Scent of Verses”, “A Drop from the Ocean”, “Magic of Words”, “The Creators I Seek”, “Beloved of My Nation”, “Joys of My Life”, “Young Talents”, “Masters of the Magic Pen”, “Toward My Goals”, as well as the Turkish-language anthology “Geleceğin Liderleri” (“Leaders of the Future”) and the English-language “Girls Nation”. Additionally, her works have appeared in international publications such as “Raven Gage” journal and “KENYA TIMES” newspaper.

Essay from Farzona Hoshimova

Young Central Asian girl with dark pigtails and a white blouse and blue overalls holding a set of books in front of a pine tree on a grassy field on a sunny day.

Thank You, “Tong Yulduzi”!

Creative Journey and Publications

Between 2021 and 2025, more than 50 of her literary works—both in prose and poetry—have been published in national and international press. Her works have appeared in publications such as “Fergana Haqiqati”, “Dono Word”, “Tong Yulduzi”, “Smile”, “Yangiyer Tongi”, and “Ijodkor”, as well as international journals like “Kenya Times”, “Raven Cage”, “Page 3 News”, and “Thotem” in Argentina. Farzona’s writings have also been featured in collective anthologies, including “Girls Nation – Daughters of the Nation”, published by Amazon.com (USA), as well as collections printed in Khiva, Jizzakh, and Sirdarya.

Her first book was published in 2021 in Great Britain and Europe.

Competitions and Achievements

To date, Farzona has been awarded over 95 diplomas, certificates, and memorable gifts for her active participation and success in various contests.

“Tong Yulduzi” – A Source of Inspiration

The newspaper “Tong Yulduzi” (Morning Star) holds a special place in Farzona’s creative journey. A poem dedicated to the paper by children’s poet Ro‘zimurod Bolqiyev continues to inspire her. According to Farzona, the newspaper, now 96 years old, was known as “Lenin Uchquni” (Lenin’s Spark) during her grandmother’s school years. She has had nearly 30 of her works published in the paper to date.

Farzona expresses deep gratitude to the editorial team of “Tong Yulduzi”—including Feruza Adilova, Nodira Nazarova, Nurbek aka, and all staff members—for their continuous support and warm attitude toward students across the country.

She is also an active member of the “Creative Children” club under the Republican Children’s Library, where the creativity of over 234 young authors is showcased. On average, 4 to 5 children report daily that their works have been published in “Tong Yulduzi”.

A Memorable Victory in Bukhara

Since the 5th grade, Farzona has participated in many creative competitions. She fondly recalls her first victory when newspaper representatives visited her school to award her in person. Later, she received awards by post. In a recent contest jointly organized by “Tong Yulduzi” and the family of the great Bukhara poet G‘ulom Shomurod, she proudly won first place.

Accompanied by her two grandmothers, aunt, and uncle, she traveled from Fergana to Bukhara, crossing seven provinces in 15 hours. Throughout the journey, she received frequent phone calls from the newspaper staff, asking about their well-being. Upon arrival, G‘ulom Shomurod’s children warmly welcomed them and accommodated them in a prestigious hotel. The staff treated them with great respect, offering warm food and tea.

At the event, Farzona’s heart beat differently—filled with excitement and pride. She listened attentively to heartfelt words about the late poet G‘ulom Shomurod, and was deeply inspired to learn more about his works. When she was announced as the first-place winner, her joy was beyond words. She was awarded with a diploma, memorable gifts, and books, including a poetry book by G‘ulom Shomurod himself. She also received a book from Obid Qo‘ldosh, a renowned poet and journalist from Bukhara.

After the ceremony, guests gathered for a special lunch. Though the organizers wanted to give them a city tour, limited time meant the participants had to bid farewell to the “Tong Yulduzi” team and the Shomurod family.

Farzona sincerely thanks the family of G‘ulom Shomurod, especially G‘ayrat Shomurod, the editorial staff of “Tong Yulduzi”, and the administration of Jondor District, Bukhara, for organizing such a meaningful event. She was particularly happy to learn that G‘ulom Shomurod’s poetry has now been included in school textbooks, giving future generations the chance to get to know his legacy from an early age.

Conclusion

Farzona believes that finding her place and rising in the creative world would not have been possible without the guidance of her mentors—especially the devoted team of “Tong Yulduzi”.

Thank you, “Tong Yulduzi”!

— Farzona Hoshimova Ilhomjon qizi,

9th-grade student, School No. 18, Fergana City

Farzona Hoshimova Ilhomjon qizi was born on December 10, 2010, in Fergana city. She is currently a 9th-grade student at School No. 18 in Fergana. This young creative girl is a member of several national and international organizations, including the “Creative Children” circle under the Republican Children’s Library, the “Double Wings Writers’ Union” (Uzbekistan–Kazakhstan), the international “IQRA Foundation”, and the Writers’ Union of Argentina.

Essay from Chorshanbiyeva Gulnoza Mirzo

Young Central Asian woman with a light gray, white, and red coat seated in a chair next to a stone monument to an important person.

EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT CHARACTERISTICS OF CHILDREN IN EARLY CHILDHOOD

Chorshanbiyeva Gulnoza Akrom qizi

2nd-year student of Applied Psychology

Mirzo Ulugbek National University of Uzbekistan

Scientific advisor: Farhod Rahmatullayev

Annotation

This article examines the emotional development processes of children aged 1.5 to 3 years, highlighting the emotional states typical for this period and the socio-psychological factors that shape them. Based on research, it explores the quality of emotional bonding with parents and its influence on the child’s psychological development.

Keywords: early childhood, emotional development, emotional regulation, emotional bonding, psychological safety.

Introduction

Early childhood is considered to span from approximately 1.5 to 3 years of age. During this stage, children undergo rapid physical, psychological, and social development. The once helpless and inactive infant quickly transforms into an active, cheerful child who begins to interact with adults, grasp and use objects, and explore the surrounding world. Children observe their environment, touch and examine objects, respond to sounds, and attempt to replicate those sounds themselves. They also begin to form emotional connections with their mothers and close caregivers.

Main Part

From the very first months of life, a child’s emotional development begins to take shape. By two months old, an infant can distinguish their mother’s face and voice from others. From 2–3 months, the child begins responding to their mother’s smile or laughter with their own smiles and physical movements. By 3–4 months, the child tries to express their desire to see, hear, or speak with their loved ones. At 8 months, infants show anxiety when placed in unfamiliar environments or in the hands of strangers, often expressed through crying. This anxiety tends to gradually decrease by the age of 14–18 months.

Early childhood is a crucial period in personality development. At this age, children’s actions are primarily driven by emotions rather than deliberate thought. Their behavior can be highly variable—for example, a child may quickly shift from crying to calmness. During this time, children form feelings of love and affection toward their caregivers and strive to receive praise from them. They develop a deep emotional attachment to their parents, often showing obedience and discipline. This strong bond helps meet the child’s fundamental emotional needs and reduces anxiety. Children who feel secure with their mothers become more active and curious about their environment. They also learn and internalize their own names, often defending them and resisting being called by another name. The way adults interact with the child during this period lays the foundation for the child’s self-awareness as a unique individual.

Emotional development is an integral part of psychological growth. It involves the child’s ability to recognize, express, and regulate their own emotions, as well as to understand and appropriately respond to the emotions of others.

Early childhood serves as a fundamental stage in emotional development. During this period, children begin not only to recognize their feelings but also to learn how to express and manage them. It is essential that close adults provide a caring and emotionally supportive environment during this stage.

Emotion is a psychological state that reflects a person’s internal response to external events and stimuli.

Emotional regulation refers to a child’s ability to identify, express, and manage their emotions, including controlling anger.

Emotional bonding is the affectionate, emotionally close relationship formed between the child and the caregiver (usually the mother or teacher). This bond fosters a sense of safety, emotional resilience, and forms the foundation for future social and emotional adaptability.

Psychological safety refers to an environment where individuals feel secure enough to make mistakes, ask questions, propose new ideas, or express opinions without fear of judgment. It implies a climate of mutual respect and trust, enabling individuals to unlock their full personal potential.

Conclusion

Early childhood is a sensitive and crucial stage in laying the foundation for a child’s emotional life. During this period, the child learns to understand, express, and regulate emotions. A nurturing, attentive, and trust-filled environment is the key to fostering emotional maturity.

References

1. Janpeysova, Ibragimova. Child and Adolescent Psychology. Tashkent, 2020

2. Davlatov. Child Psychology. Tashkent, 2016

3. Elkonin. Psychology of Child Development

4. arxiv.uz/uz/document

Chorshanbiyeva Gulnoza Mirzo is a 3rd year student of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Applied Psychology, National University of Uzbekistan named after Ulugbek.