Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is set to expand her hydroponic farm into a commercial operation after receiving a $5,000 grant last week. The funding was awarded to her by the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program during a ceremony held at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau.
Ms. Ali plans to use the grant to purchase additional materials and enhance her business infrastructure. Her goal is to provide fresh, organic, chemical-free vegetables at more affordable prices for consumers.
Operating under the name Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), her hydroponic farming venture is based in Chinakoti, Ba. Ms. Ali started this enterprise in September 2022, driven by concerns over the rising rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region.
She emphasized the importance of healthy eating habits for improved lifestyles. NFFS employs innovative techniques such as the Dutch Bucket System and Deep Flow Technique (DFT) hydroponics to cultivate crops on a quarter-acre of land. The use of advanced technology, including an automated dosing system from Bluelab, helps maintain the operations.
Ms. Ali highlighted that the hydroponic system allows for a diverse range of vegetables to be grown year-round, free from chemicals. Furthermore, her business is focused on inclusivity, as it hires individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youth.
As a traditional farmer, Ms. Ali faced significant challenges due to flooding and drought, but with her hydroponic system, she can grow various vegetables without the concerns of climate fluctuations.
The GIST program aims to empower young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology through hands-on training and mentorship from leading experts in partnership with local ecosystem partners.