Sumina is a housewife learning to farm and is a member of the Sumber Cahaya farmer group. Initially, the group received production support in the form of fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides. Together, they managed these resources to cultivate chili plants. With limited knowledge, they began cultivation without using seed trays or covers, sowing directly in the field without protection from rain and sunlight. The seedlings were transplanted after two months because they were unaware of the proper seeding techniques.

The fertilization they practiced was also limited, only applying NPK at the start of planting with no further fertilization. Sumina often used pesticides indiscriminately due to a lack of knowledge. As a result, their chili plants did not grow or produce well, leading to a failed harvest with no yield.

Then, they met with the Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera (YBTS). From this meeting, the group learned how to cultivate plants from land preparation, seeding, fertilization, pest and disease control, to harvest. Regular group meetings and intensive visits were conducted. Initially, they cultivated cucumbers with guidance from YBTS’s TFO. Previously, they didn’t know that cucumbers needed to be grown with a trellis system. After receiving guidance, they implemented this system and, from 300 plants, earned Rp.1,300,000, their first income as farmers. This success motivated them to continue growing vegetables.

After succeeding with cucumbers, the group proceeded to cultivate other commodities such as water spinach, pak choi, long beans, mustard greens, and tomatoes. Despite the fear of failure, especially with high rainfall, the motivation and support from YBTS’s TFO encouraged them to plant again.

By continually learning with YBTS, Sumina hopes their knowledge of agricultural techniques will improve, and the quality of their vegetable production will increase. She also hopes that many women around her will be motivated to engage in farming to enhance their family’s economy.

“Every step forward is the result of the courage to try and learn from mistakes,” Sumina said, reminding herself and her group that there is no success without learning.