Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is set to expand her hydroponic farm into a commercial operation following the receipt of a $5,000 grant last week. The funding was awarded by the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program at the Hilton Fiji Resort in Denarau on Wednesday.
Ali plans to use the grant to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials to improve her infrastructure. “We aim to produce fresh, organic, chemical and pesticide-free vegetables and sell them to consumers at a significantly lower price than they are currently paying,” she explained.
Her business, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), operates as a small-scale hydroponic farm located in Chinakoti, Ba, and was established in September 2022 in her backyard. Ali entered the field of hydroponic farming due to concerns over the high rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in her country.
“It is vital for customers to adopt a healthy eating style for an improved lifestyle,” Ali stated. NFFS employs the Dutch Bucket System and the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) hydroponics system to cultivate crops on a quarter-acre of land.
“We incorporate innovative technologies, such as the automated dosing system from Bluelab,” she added. This allows her to produce various crops year-round, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, healthy, chemical-free vegetables.
Ali emphasized inclusivity in her business model, as she hires individuals with disabilities, LGBTQI communities, and unemployed youth. She noted that, as a traditional farmer, she faced significant challenges during flooding and droughts. However, the hydroponic system alleviates concerns about climate variability, enabling the cultivation of a variety of vegetables without environmental worries.
The GIST program provides intensive business training aimed at empowering young innovators in science and technology through practical training and mentorship from leading U.S. experts in collaboration with local partners.