Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is set to expand her hydroponic farm into a commercial venture after recently being awarded a grant of US$5,000 (F$11,228.75). The funding was provided by the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program and presented to Ms. Ali at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau last week.
Ms. Ali plans to utilize the grant to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials to expand her farm’s infrastructure. She aims to produce fresh, organic vegetables that are free from chemicals and pesticides, allowing her to offer them to consumers at more affordable prices compared to current market rates.
Her business, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), is based in Chinakoti, Ba, and was founded in September 2022. Ms. Ali transitioned to hydroponic farming out of concern for the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region. She emphasizes the importance of healthy eating habits in promoting better lifestyles.
NFFS implements the Dutch Bucket System and the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) hydroponics to cultivate crops on a quarter-acre lot. The farm incorporates modern technology, including an automated dosing system from Bluelab, to optimize its operations. Ms. Ali notes that the hydroponic approach enables the production of various crops throughout the year, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, chemical-free vegetables.
In addition to focusing on health, Ms. Ali is committed to inclusivity by employing individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youth. She highlights the challenges posed by traditional farming, including crop failures due to flooding and drought, and views hydroponic farming as a viable solution that mitigates these risks.
The GIST program provides intensive business training to empower young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology, offering mentorship from leading experts in the field.