Gulsirin Derbeneva and Ais Malikov, now 61 and 58, are a testament to the power of love and unwavering devotion. Their home, once filled with an echoing silence after their older children left, now overflows with the joyful chaos of 40 children.

Before finding each other, Gulsirin and Ais had each navigated the challenges of raising families from previous marriages. But as their children grew and moved away, a profound sense of emptiness settled over their home. Seeking to fill the void, they made a life-altering decision in 2011: they adopted two girls from an orphanage.

This act of kindness ignited a spark within them. One child led to another, and soon, their home became a haven for many. “We often adopt siblings,” Ais explains, emphasizing their commitment to keeping families together.

Their home is a whirlwind of activity. The boys are drawn to sports, while the girls flourish in dance and music. Awards and accolades adorn their walls, a testament to the children’s hard work and the unwavering support of their parents.

“The house felt empty before,” Gulsirin admits, “but now it’s bursting with life.” Holidays are especially joyous, with both their adult children and grandchildren gathering to celebrate. “We don’t feel our age,” they declare with a laugh. “These children are our motivation, our inspiration. We live for them.”