The journey to entrepreneurship is often fueled by passion, resilience, and a vision that transcends personal aspirations. For me, an asylum seeker studying business administration in Cyprus, my entrepreneurial dream is deeply rooted in a desire to make a meaningful impact. I envision cultivating cassava in Cyprus and producing its derivatives—flour, starch, gari, and more—to serve diverse markets and improve lives. This is not just a business idea; it’s a mission to create value, empower communities, and contribute to Cyprus’s economy.
The Genesis of a Dream
Since 2019, I’ve harbored an unwavering dream of building a cassava-based enterprise. At the time, I doubted whether cassava could even grow in Cyprus due to its soil type and climate. But my education in business administration has taught me the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving. These skills have fueled my determination to find innovative solutions to make this project viable.
My inspiration was reignited recently when I watched a video of a Nigerian man living in Canada who began growing cassava locally after realizing the high demand for imported cassava products within the African community there. His story resonated with me because it mirrors the challenges faced by African, Indian, and Asian communities in Cyprus—underserved groups that rely heavily on imported foods, including cassava.
In 2023 alone, Cyprus imported $829.33 worth of cassava starch. This figure underscores the untapped potential for local production. Not only would this reduce import costs and make cassava products more affordable, but it would also cater to the growing demand for gluten-free and health-conscious food options among consumers.
Why Cassava? The Potential Is Limitless
Cassava is one of the most versatile crops on the planet. Its derivatives can be used in countless ways:
- Food Products: Cassava flour can replace wheat flour in bread, cakes, biscuits, noodles, and more—offering a gluten-free alternative for health-conscious consumers.
- Industrial Applications: Cassava starch has applications in biogas production and even textiles.
- Sustainability: Cassava cultivation can contribute to sustainable agricultural practices if managed well.
By tapping into this versatility, I aim to create a business that not only generates revenue but also maximizes the value of cassava’s attributes across multiple industries.
Overcoming Challenges with Strategic Thinking
Every entrepreneurial journey comes with its challenges, but I believe that obstacles are opportunities in disguise. Donald Trump once said that when you have an idea for a project, you should take your time documenting it, identify potential problems, and develop strategies to overcome them. This advice has become my guiding principle as I work on my cassava project.
The first challenge is finding suitable land for cultivation in Cyprus. Recently, I approached Stelios—a farmer in Troulli village near Larnaca—about using his land for cassava farming. While he was initially hesitant due to his unfamiliarity with cassava, this interaction highlighted the need for education and awareness about this crop’s potential.
If Stelios remains unconvinced, I am prepared to explore other avenues:
- Reaching out to relatives or acquaintances who own farmland.
- Seeking support from local authorities or organizations such as the Orthodox Church.
- Pitching my idea to investors or sponsors who share my vision for innovation and community impact.
These steps reflect my commitment to finding solutions rather than dwelling on limitations.
Aligning Passion with Purpose
What excites me most about this project is how it aligns with my passions for business, nutrition, and technology. As an aspiring entrepreneur, I see this venture as more than just a business—it’s a platform for innovation and social impact.
For example:
- By integrating technology into farming practices, I can optimize soil conditions and increase yields despite Cyprus’s challenging climate.
- By producing affordable cassava products locally, I can improve access to nutritious food for underserved communities.
- By creating jobs within the agricultural sector, I can contribute to economic growth while empowering others.
This project is not just about me; it’s about building something that benefits everyone involved—from farmers to consumers.
The Bigger Picture: A Model of Success
As an asylum seeker in Cyprus, I want my story to inspire others who face similar challenges. My goal is to become a model of success—a living testament that dreams can be achieved regardless of one’s circumstances.
Starting as a solo entrepreneur with limited resources may seem daunting, but I am confident that hard work and perseverance will pay off. My long-term vision is to expand this business beyond Cyprus and establish it as a global brand that celebrates innovation and inclusivity.
Making It Happen
To bring this dream to life, I need your support:
- Farmers and Landowners: If you own farmland in Cyprus or know someone who does, let’s collaborate! Together, we can turn unused land into productive fields that benefit everyone.
- Investors: If you believe in sustainable agriculture and innovative business ideas, consider investing in this project. Your support could make all the difference.
- Advocates: Help spread the word about this initiative! Share this blog with your network so we can raise awareness about cassava’s potential in Cyprus.
- Community Members: If you’re part of an underserved community that relies on imported foods like cassava, let me know your needs so we can tailor our products accordingly.
This is more than just an entrepreneurial venture—it’s a movement toward sustainability, inclusivity, and shared prosperity.
Building Dreams Beyond Borders
My journey as an aspiring entrepreneur in Cyprus is proof that dreams have no borders. With determination and strategic planning, I believe it’s possible to turn even the most ambitious ideas into reality.
Cultivating cassava in Cyprus is not just about creating a profitable business; it’s about making a lasting impact on people’s lives—improving access to nutritious food, creating jobs, and contributing to economic growth.
So here’s my message to anyone reading this: Whatever your dream may be—whether it’s starting a business or pursuing another passion—don’t let obstacles hold you back. Take that first step today because every great achievement starts with a single idea.
Let’s build something extraordinary together!