From the Farm to the Future: Demenicio Dodi’s Journey as a Young Vanilla Farmer in Liquiçá

From the Farm to the Future: Demenicio Dodi's Journey as a Young Vanilla Farmer in Liquiçá

At just 22 years old, Demenicio Dodi from Liquiçá is proof that with passion, persistence, and the right training, young Timorese can thrive in agriculture and shape a better future not only for themselves, but for their communities and country.

While studying Nutrition at UNITAL and nearing graduation, Demenicio is also cultivating vanilla side-by-side with his father on their family farm. Farming isn't new to him, he's been growing vanilla for some time, but things have taken a new turn since participating in the Agroforestry Skills Programme's trainings including Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) for Vanilla, not once, but twice.

"I have learned a lot. As I grow my own vanilla in my farm, I've been applying what I've learned, and I also share my knowledge with my father and some farmer neighbors."

Before attending the trainings, Demenicio and his father were already growing vanilla, but the results were inconsistent. Weather changes and plant health were major challenges. After the vanilla cultivation training in 2024, however, things started to improve. Demenicio gained in-depth knowledge of vanilla cultivation from seedling preparation, looping of vanilla stalks, muliching, shading, proper pollination techniques, to understanding how to grow healthy and productive vanilla plants. Applying these lessons has brought clear results: his vanilla plants are now thriving, and he feels more confident facing changes in weather and planning for quality yields.

His father, seeing the progress firsthand, couldn't be more grateful. Demenicio regularly shares what he learns from the trainings with him, and their collaboration is stronger than ever. They believe their vanilla beans will not only be of higher quality but also bring better income for their household. Even their neighbors are benefiting, as Demenicio is happy to teach others what he has learned.

"I've seen the potential vanilla has for me, for my family, and for Timor-Leste. That's why I always want to keep learning, from anyone, from anywhere."

Balancing his university studies with hands-on training hasn't been easy, but he manages both with determination. Looking ahead, he plans to finish his diploma, continue training, and soon begin selling his own vanilla beans.

Demenicio also has a message for his peers:

"I want to see more young people starting their own businesses, especially in agriculture. We don't have to go abroad to find jobs. Timor has potential if we are willing to work and learn."

In a time when many young people consider leaving for opportunities elsewhere, Demenicio's story is a reminder of the potential within Timor-Leste's land and its people. With young farmers like Demenicio leading the way, the future of vanilla and sustainable agriculture looks bright.