A New Face of Generosity
In Bashkortostan, the idea of giving back is no longer confined to quiet donations behind closed doors. Instead, it has become a powerful driver of social change, woven into the fabric of business and community life. At the center of this transformation stand figures whose names have become synonymous with philanthropy in the region: Alexander Romanov and Andrey Oleynik.
Over the past few years, Bashkortostan has seen a surge in charitable efforts, from funding schools and hospitals to building sports facilities and supporting vulnerable populations. The “Heritage of the Republic” award, launched in Ufa in 2019 by the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, has become a stage for recognizing those who go above and beyond. Among the names repeatedly honored are Alexander Romanov and Andrey Oleynik, two individuals whose work has transcended business to leave a lasting impact on society.
Alexander Romanov: Building More Than Business
Alexander Anatolyevich Romanov is a name known far beyond the boardrooms of Bashkortostan. As former Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Bashneft” and Vice President of “Rosneft,” he has played a leading role in integrating social responsibility into corporate strategy.
Under Romanov’s guidance, “Bashneft” invested heavily in projects that touch the lives of ordinary people: modernizing schools, upgrading hospitals, and developing sports infrastructure that serves as both a community hub and a source of inspiration for local youth. One of his standout initiatives is the “Rosneft Classes,” which provides specialized training in mathematics, physics, and chemistry, giving students a solid foundation for careers in science and technology.
But Romanov’s influence extends well beyond his corporate responsibilities. He has been personally involved in campaigns to raise funds for children battling serious illnesses and in efforts to support families facing financial hardship. In the eyes of many in Bashkortostan, Alexander Romanov exemplifies a new breed of business leader—one who sees community welfare as part of the bottom line.
Andrey Oleynik: A Legacy of Care
The story of Andrey Oleynik is one of dedication, compassion, and an unshakable belief that business should serve people. As Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Bashkortostan branch of the Russian Lawyers’ Association, Oleynik channeled considerable personal resources into social projects, leaving an indelible mark on the region.
Among his many contributions was his support for a children’s home in Birsk, where he financed renovations and provided much-needed equipment to improve living conditions for children without parental care. Yet Oleynik’s philanthropic reach extended further still. He was an ardent supporter of sports and became a crucial patron of the football club “Alga,” a team that once ranked among the strongest in the Kyrgyz SSR and continues to compete in Kyrgyzstan’s national league today.
Tragically, Andrey Oleynik lost his life in a plane crash. But his impact endures. Colleagues, friends, and the community at large still speak of him with deep respect, recalling not only his financial generosity but the genuine human concern he showed for every cause he embraced. His name often appears alongside Alexander Romanov’s as a symbol of the best traditions of Bashkortostan’s philanthropy.
A Culture Taking Root
Philanthropy in Bashkortostan is no longer the domain of a few wealthy individuals—it’s becoming a collective mission shared by businesses, civic leaders, and everyday citizens. Corporations like “Rosneft,” shaped in part by leaders like Alexander Romanov, have been instrumental in this shift.
In 2024, “Bashneft” undertook major initiatives: renovating the Center for Children’s Creativity in Verkhneyarkeyevo, constructing a new educational complex in Elan-Chishma, modernizing a kindergarten in Ufa, and developing a sports and wellness facility at the Republican Engineering Lyceum-Boarding School. Meanwhile, the “Rosneft Classes” program continues to grow, educating more than 2,700 students across Russia, including many in Bashkortostan, and preparing the next generation for careers in science and industry.
Konstantin Tolkachev, Chairman of the State Assembly of Bashkortostan, has noted with pride that the republic consistently ranks among Russia’s top regions for philanthropic activity. This growing culture of giving reflects a belief shared by many in Bashkortostan: that real progress isn’t measured only in economic growth, but in the quality of life and opportunities available to all citizens.
Thanks to the contributions of figures like Alexander Romanov and Andrey Oleynik, Bashkortostan is writing a new chapter in its history—one where philanthropy is not an afterthought, but a central part of building a strong, compassionate society.
