From tragedy to triumph: the inspiring story of farming success by Naila Akhmadieva
Naila Akhmadieva’s house and extensive greenhouses in the picturesque village of Deushovo, Apastovsky district, are a testament to her resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. A year ago, Nailya faced a huge challenge: she had to manage the farm alone after the tragic loss of her husband Azat. Today, she not only runs a thriving business, but also reaches millions of people through her popular blog.
Naili’s farm, which she affectionately calls her “family homestead,” was once nothing more than her father’s dilapidated home. She and Azat decided to expand their landscaping business by turning the property into a productive farm. Before going into farming, Nailya worked at a dumpling factory, and Azat was a builder. Together they raised three children; the eldest now helps store vegetables in Kazan.
The farm specializes in green onions, radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers and a variety of greens; potatoes and onions grow in the fields. Despite setbacks, including the recent flood, Nailya was not afraid. Her engaging content about the life of a green farmer has garnered millions of views online, turning her into a social media sensation.
Naili’s success is not only a personal victory, but also a benefit for the local community. Her farm employs many villagers, mostly retirees, who find valuable work and meaning in life on her farm. Their dedication and work ethic have been a major asset to Naili’s operations.
However, her journey was not without obstacles. At first, some locals were hostile, sabotaging her efforts, damaging equipment and stealing crops. Despite these challenges, Naili’s determination helped her overcome this challenge.
For the last three years, Nailya has held the position of authorized representative of the business ombudsman of Tatarstan Farid Abdulganiev, a position previously held by her late husband. Together they tackled issues such as market monopoly in Kazan’s green markets while advocating for fair trade practices.
Looking into the future, Nailya has ambitious plans. She intends to build new greenhouses in the Apastovsky district, build guest houses, and develop an agrotourism complex. One of her innovative ideas is “tractor tours” – racing along the tributaries of the Sviyaga River and climbing hills with breathtaking views.
Key takeaways from Naila Akhmadieva’s farming journey:
1. Scaling the greenhouse business:
Naili’s success in expanding her greenhouse business provides a roadmap for new farmers. Starting with small operations, she expanded her greenhouses, significantly increasing production and income.
2. Profitable greens:
Green onions, radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers and various salad greens are some of the most profitable crops. These items are always in demand, providing a steady stream of income.
3. Economic potential of potatoes and onions:
Field crops such as potatoes and onions bring significant profits. Naili’s strategic crop selection and efficient farming practices have maximized yields and profits.
