Lyaila graduated from the Kazakh State Law University (Almaty), Faculty of International Law, in 1999, after which she took several specialist courses in accounting and tax matters. She has also undertaken business courses in the field of business and problem solving.

Lyaila has a wealth of experience in banking law having worked for ABN AMRO as in-house counsel, as well with as several law firms.

Lyaila speaks fluent Russian, advanced English and is studying French.

Lyaila is currently a managing partner and head of the Business Development Group at GRATA law firm, a position she took up in October 2006.

Her background is in corporate finance where in her previous roles, she has acted in all areas of provision of legal services — performed due diligence on major projects, drafted memorandums and contracts and advised on all relevant legal issues.