Among rows of thriving vegetables and herbs, Ayesha Sultana tends to plants that represent much more than food—they represent self-sufficiency, nutrition, and hope for her community. Through ESDR’s agricultural program, this 27-year-old has become an expert in sustainable farming and nutrition education.
Ayesha’s interest in agriculture grew from necessity when her family struggled to access fresh, nutritious food. “I realized that if we could grow our own vegetables, we could improve our health and reduce our expenses,” she explains while examining tomato plants. “But I needed to learn how to do it properly.”
Her training covered sustainable farming techniques, soil management, pest control, crop rotation, and nutrition science. She learned to maximize yields in small spaces, preserve seeds, and create compost from organic waste. She also studied the nutritional value of different crops and how to plan balanced diets.
Ayesha now manages community gardens and teaches families how to grow their own food using sustainable methods. She organizes workshops on nutrition, food preservation, and cooking with fresh ingredients. Her work has improved food security and nutrition for dozens of families.
“When you grow your own food, you control your nutrition and your budget,” Ayesha says while harvesting fresh spinach. “But more than that, you connect with the earth and gain confidence in your ability to provide for your family. Every seed we plant is an investment in our community’s health and independence.” Her gardens have become models of sustainable agriculture that other communities seek to replicate.
