Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is planning to expand her hydroponic farm to a commercial scale after receiving a grant of $5,000 (F$11,228.75) last week. The grant was awarded to her by the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program during a ceremony at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau.
Ms. Ali intends to use the funding to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials for infrastructure expansion. She aims to provide fresh, organic vegetables free from chemicals and pesticides, offering them to consumers at lower prices than currently available in the market.
Her business, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), operates on a small scale in Chinakoti, Ba, and was started in September 2022 in her backyard. Ms. Ali ventured into hydroponic farming due to the rising risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region.
She emphasizes the importance of adopting healthier eating habits for improved quality of life. NFFS employs the Dutch Bucket System and Deep Flow Technique (DFT) in its hydroponics, maximizing crop cultivation on a quarter-acre of land.
Utilizing advanced technology such as Bluelab’s automated dosing system, Ms. Ali’s farm can provide a continuous supply of diverse, healthy, chemical-free vegetables throughout the year. Additionally, her business prioritizes inclusivity by employing individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youth.
Reflecting on her experiences as a traditional farmer, Ms. Ali noted the challenges posed by flooding and drought, which are mitigated by hydroponic farming techniques that allow for growing various vegetables regardless of climate changes.
The GIST program provides intensive business training and mentorship for young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology, supported by experts from the United States and local partners.