Nursel was born in 1989 in Cholpon-Ata, located in the Issyk-Kul region. She received her education at the S.M. Kirov School and in 2007 enrolled in the Law Institute of the Kyrgyz National University named after Jusup Balasagyn, where she successfully completed her studies. Currently, Nursel has settled in San Francisco, California, and is actively involved in the restaurant business.
The Journey to America
“In 2011, I decided to fulfill my dream and went to the USA. We often had volunteers living at our home, and I had the opportunity to observe their culture, cook for them, and celebrate holidays with them. These moments broadened my horizons and deepened my interest in America.
My future husband left for the USA before me, and soon I followed him. But for me, it was more than just following a person — it was a deep dream to see the world, experience a new life, and find myself. At first, we lived in Los Angeles, and then we moved to San Francisco.
Now About My Place of Residence
San Francisco and Silicon Valley are considered the center of global technology. Giants such as Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, Tesla, Netflix, Adobe, and Intel are located here.
This region is rich in innovation and a drive for development, providing numerous opportunities for hardworking and goal-oriented people, regardless of their nationality. Many consider San Francisco a place where dreams come true.
America is a country where everyone can realize themselves. Here, the comfort of life, stability, and security are highly valued. People strive for simplicity and inner satisfaction rather than ostentatious luxury.
Local Attitudes Toward Immigrants
My experience communicating with Americans has left a positive impression. They are very friendly and always ready to help. If you get lost or don’t understand something, they are happy to explain. Even if you make mistakes in pronunciation, they try to understand. Here, mistakes are not judged or laughed at. I appreciate the respect that is shown to others here.
Comparison with Kyrgyzstan
It’s hard to compare, as the mentality here is completely different. People often live for themselves and respect personal boundaries. I especially like how service workers are treated — they are seen as people, tips are left, and people clean up after themselves. This is part of the local culture.
Amazing Moments
When I first arrived in America, I was surprised that many cities are mostly single-story. Unlike Hollywood movies with skyscrapers, I saw many old buildings with low ceilings and a lack of common lighting in rooms.
I was also amazed by the atmosphere of restaurants, where the emphasis is on simplicity and coziness rather than pomp. I was struck by how people stand in line at establishments with history, even if there is old furniture.
Achievements in a New Country
I am proud to be one of the first Kyrgyz women entrepreneurs to open an establishment with Kyrgyz cuisine in San Francisco. Currently, I have two restaurants: one in San Francisco and the other in San Carlos.
My main achievement is that my children are growing up proud of their Kyrgyz identity.
Family Ties
My parents are Koigeldiev Karybek and Junusova Zhanil. There are four children in our family, and I am the second. My parents and relatives live in Cholpon-Ata, while my older sister is currently in America.
I have three children: my oldest son is 11, my middle daughter is 9, and my youngest is 3.5 years old. For the past two years, I have been raising and providing for them on my own, as my husband and I have divorced.
Initial Difficulties
Moving to another country is always difficult, especially due to the language barrier. Adaptation was not easy. At that time, I worked various jobs — cleaning in hotels, caring for the elderly, working as a housekeeper, and a nanny. These challenges made me stronger.
Living away from family while simultaneously running a business as a single mother has been a serious test. But I never lost hope, as honest work is what has always supported me and helped me overcome difficulties.
Why I Chose San Francisco
Upon my first arrival in San Francisco, I felt like I had returned home. After many years away from my homeland, I felt inner peace here for the first time. The sea air and nature of this city remind me of my native Issyk-Kul. It’s hard to express in words, but I feel a connection.
Here, people of different nationalities and cultures live in harmony, and the climate is mild. We often visit Lake Tahoe, its landscapes remind me of Issyk-Kul. All these factors have made San Francisco my home.
About My Homeland
I am proud of my origins from Kyrgyzstan. Wherever I am, my heart is always with my homeland. I take pride in my culture and independent state. The people, nature, and traditions of my nation are my wealth.
It is important for me not to forget my homeland and to glorify it, which I consider my duty and pride. I believe that in the future, Kyrgyzstan will become a developed and successful state.
The Presence of Kyrgyz People
There are not many Kyrgyz in San Francisco compared to Chicago and other cities, as life here is expensive. Nevertheless, we meet with Kyrgyz people twice a year during the Nowruz holiday and at community events. Many of us come to eat at my restaurant, and we socialize, although in general, many prefer to live separately and interact in small circles.
Hobbies in Free Time
I mainly dedicate my free time to my children. I love cooking, driving, spending time in nature, and enjoying silence while reflecting.
Future Plans
In the future, I plan to grow and develop, not stopping at what I have achieved. I always strive to move forward, and the rest is in the hands of fate. Continuing my development and overcoming obstacles is my main goal,” Nursel concluded.
