Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is set to expand her hydroponic farming business into a commercial venture following the receipt of a $5,000 grant from the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program. The grant was awarded to Ms. Ali at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau last Wednesday.
Ms. Ali plans to use the funds to purchase additional materials and enhance the infrastructure of her business, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), which is based in Chinakoti, Ba. Her goal is to offer fresh, organic vegetables that are free from chemicals and pesticides, and to sell them at competitive prices to consumers.
Having launched her hydroponics business in September 2022, Ms. Ali was motivated by the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region. She believes that promoting healthy eating is essential for improving overall lifestyle.
NFFS implements advanced techniques such as the Dutch Bucket System and the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) for hydroponic cultivation on a quarter-acre plot of land. Ms. Ali stated that they utilize innovative technologies, including an automated dosing system, to optimize their farming operation.
The hydroponics system allows NFFS to supply a variety of fresh vegetables throughout the year without being affected by adverse weather conditions like flooding or drought. Ms. Ali emphasizes inclusivity in her workforce, employing individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youth.
The GIST Startup training provides intensive business education for young innovators and entrepreneurs in the science and technology sectors through hands-on mentorship by industry experts from the United States, in collaboration with local ecosystem partners.