Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, intends to expand her hydroponic farm to a commercial scale 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) programme at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau on Wednesday.
Ms. Ali plans to utilize the funds to enhance her business operations by purchasing additional materials to develop her infrastructure. “Our goal is to grow fresh, organic, and pesticide-free vegetables and offer them to consumers at a lower price than current market rates,” she stated.
Her company, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), began operating in September 2022 and is based in Chinakoti, Ba. Ms. Ali ventured into hydroponic farming in response to the increasing risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevalent in the region, emphasizing the importance of healthy eating for an improved lifestyle.
NFFS employs the Dutch Bucket System and the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) for hydroponics to cultivate crops on a quarter-acre plot. Ms. Ali mentioned that they employ modern technology, including an automated dosing system from Bluelab. This method enables them to provide a constant supply of fresh, healthy, and chemical-free vegetables throughout the year.
The company also prioritizes inclusivity by hiring individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youth. Ms. Ali reflected on the challenges she faced as a traditional farmer, particularly during flooding and drought, but noted that hydroponics allows for diverse vegetable production without being affected by climate changes.
GIST’s Startup training is an intensive business program designed to support young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology through expert-led training and mentorship in collaboration with local partners.