Board 2025-2026
Lola Matmusaeva, Chairperson
Lola Matmusaeva has a long-standing engagement with youth-led activism in southern Kyrgyzstan, particularly in the areas of intercultural dialogue, post-conflict reconciliation, and gender equality. Her collaboration with CAG began in 2013 through her work with a key partner organization in Central Asia. She was previously based at CAG’s head office in Malmö, contributing to project coordination in both Sweden and Central Asia. She holds a Master’s degree in International Development and Management from Lund University. Her in-depth knowledge of the Central Asian context, experience with project implementation, and leadership skills make her well-positioned to chair the board and oversee strategic governance.
Tatiana Stebneva, Vice chairperson
Tatiana Stebmeva is a doctoral researcher at the University of Glasgow, focusing on gender and geopolitics in Central Asia. She joined CAG’s board in 2025 and has been actively involved in program discussions and partner engagement. She was based at CAG’s Malmö office in 2022 and 2023, contributing to project coordination and organizational development. Her academic work on democratization in post-Soviet countries and her growing expertise in regional gender dynamics provide the board with analytical depth and policy insight. As vice chairperson, she plays a key role in governance processes and supports staff-related matters, while contributing to strategic dialogue with both Swedish and Central Asian stakeholders.
Gustaf Sörnmo, Board member
Gustaf Sörnmo is the founder of Centralasiengrupperna and served as its chairperson from 2012 to 2018. His engagement with Central Asia began in 2009 through extensive field visits and networking with civil society actors. He has been central to CAG’s institutional development and has led strategic planning, partnership-building, project design, and fundraising. Gustaf has co-founded several civil society initiatives and continues his involvement at CAG. His longstanding involvement and deep knowledge of the region and the organization contribute to CAG’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability.
Talgat Subanaliev, Treasurer
Talgat Subanaliev has been involved with CAG since 2019, contributing to both project implementation and organizational development. He holds a Bachelor's degree from American University of Central Asia and has experience in youth engagement, human rights, PR, and education. He has worked with GIZ, UNHCR Kyrgyzstan, and OSCE programs, and has coordinated English education programs for young people from rural areas. Fluent in Kyrgyz, Russian, and English, Talgat brings valuable regional knowledge, communication skills, and experience in civic engagement. As a signatory, he also supports CAG’s administrative routines
Susanna Mäkelä – Secretary
Susanna Mäkelä serves as the secretary of the board of Central Asia Solidarity Groups since April 2025. She has a long-standing involvement with CAG, including participation in the election committee and various collaborative initiatives. With an academic background in Human Geography and Eurasian Studies, her expertise lies in intersectionality, environmental justice, and international collaboration. She recently completed a residency internship in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, focusing on capacity-building, youth work, and fundraising. Susanna brings strong skills in donor mapping, grant writing, and internal organization, and her familiarity with CAG’s values and history ensures continuity and coherence in board governance.
Aigerim Nurseitova – Board Member
Aigerim Nurseitova is a junior research fellow and PhD candidate in Political Science at the University of Tartu, Estonia, where she focuses on ethnic minorities in Kazakhstan and Estonia. Her professional background includes civil society and policy work with organizations such as Amnesty International, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), and American Councils. Aigerim’s language skills (Kazakh and basic Kyrgyz), interest in communications and social media, and knowledge of youth activism and gender issues strengthen the board’s connection with regional realities and its outreach capacities.