Backyard gardener Jasnita Ali, 32, is set to expand her hydroponic farming venture into a commercial operation after being awarded a grant of US$5,000 (F$11,228.75) last week. The grant was presented to Ms. Ali by the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau on Wednesday.
Ms. Ali plans to use the funding to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials and expanding her infrastructure. She aims to provide fresh, organic, and pesticide-free vegetables to consumers at lower prices than those currently available.
Her company, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), is a small-scale hydroponic farm located in Chinakoti, Ba. Ms. Ali launched the business in September 2022 in her backyard, motivated by the increasing risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in her country.
“It is crucial for customers to adopt a healthy diet, which can lead to an improved lifestyle,” she emphasized. NFFS employs the Dutch Bucket System along with the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) for hydroponically growing crops on a quarter-acre plot of land.
“We utilize advanced technology, such as the automated dosing system from Bluelab, to operate our system,” said Ms. Ali, who is also a mother. “By cultivating a variety of crops through hydroponics, we can supply fresh, chemical-free vegetables year-round.”
Moreover, Ms. Ali is committed to inclusivity in her workforce, employing individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youth. She highlighted her experience as a traditional farmer, which involved significant challenges due to flooding and drought. Hydroponic farming allows her to grow diverse vegetables without the adverse impacts of changing weather conditions.
In addition, the GIST Startup training program offers intensive business training designed to empower young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology through hands-on instruction and mentorship from experts in the United States, in collaboration with local partners.