Elizabeth Grace’s journey from casual gardening during the pandemic to founding a successful herb farm embodies resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Based in Wailoaloa, Nadi, Grace established Herbivore Farms with her family, including her partner, two children, and one staff member. Originally motivated by the COVID-19 crisis, Grace began cultivating herbs, edible flowers, and microgreens, which she supplies to resorts and high-end restaurants across Fiji.
Her passion for farming grew when she realized the demand for fresh herbs during the pandemic. Even as she returned to her previous professional role, Grace found herself longing for the garden. This prompted her to fully commit to her farming venture, highlighting the potential market for locally sourced produce.
Grace has been collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture, gaining knowledge that aids her commitment to organic farming methods. She recognizes farming as a challenging field, particularly for women, and cherishes the support and encouragement she receives from other female farmers.
The importance of efficient distribution is a major challenge for her and other local farmers. “For farmers like me, timely delivery of produce is crucial,” she noted, emphasizing partnerships with other suppliers that facilitate logistics. Recently, she acquired a 22-acre farm, which signifies ambitious plans for future growth over the next decade.
Through her story, Grace encourages others to believe in their passions and seize opportunities. “If you have something you really love doing, there’s always someone looking for that product. Focus on developing it,” she stated, inspiring a burgeoning movement of self-reliance and agriculture in Fiji.
This narrative of transformation and empowerment resonates with other success stories around her, such as Asaeli Uluimoala, who shifted from a chef to a successful farmer, emphasizing the potential for agriculture to sustain livelihoods and provide food security. Similarly, Jasnita Ali’s hydroponic venture and Olivia Cavuka’s family farm further underline the growing acknowledgment of agriculture’s importance in Fiji’s economy and sustainability.
Fiji is witnessing a positive shift as more individuals embrace farming as a viable and fulfilling career path, tackling food security challenges while promoting local agricultural practices. The collective stories reflect a hopeful vision for a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural landscape.
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