Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is set to transform her hydroponic farm into a commercial operation 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) program during an event at Hilton Fiji Resort in Denarau on Wednesday.
Ms. Ali plans to utilize the funding to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials to expand her farm’s infrastructure. She aims to provide fresh, organic, and pesticide-free vegetables to consumers at more affordable prices than currently available in the market.
Her company, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), is a small hydroponics business located in Chinakoti, Ba, which she launched in September 2022 from her backyard. Ms. Ali ventured into hydroponic farming due to concerns over the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region.
“It is essential for customers to adopt a healthier diet to enhance their lifestyle,” she stated. NFFS employs the Dutch Bucket System along with the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) to cultivate crops on a quarter-acre of land.
“We incorporate advanced technology, such as the automated dosing system from Bluelab, to optimize our operations,” she added. The hydroponics system allows for a variety of crops to be grown year-round, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh, healthy, and chemical-free vegetables.
Furthermore, Ms. Ali emphasized inclusivity by employing individuals with disabilities and members of the LGBTIQ community, as well as unemployed youth. She shared the challenges she faced as a traditional farmer, particularly during flooding and droughts, stating, “With the hydroponic system, we can grow diverse vegetables without worrying about climate changes.”
The GIST program offers comprehensive training designed to empower young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology, with guidance from expert mentors from the United States, in collaboration with local partners.