My Journey Before, During, and After EYiA
A personal look back at joining EYiA at Soilless FarmLab as a computer science intern, and how that experience led directly to building FarmCI.
Before EYiA
EYiA for me began on a high note, but what made it truly meaningful were three important things: My amazing team. Group 14, Cohort 4, also known as The Nexus Team, the great planning by the Soilless FarmLab management team, and the constant support I received during and after the program.
The Nexus Team members are real go getters. These are people who will work under the sun or in the rain just to get things done. Once we agree on something, we make it happen, no excuses.
Getting In and Getting Started
I joined EYiA as a computer science intern from Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU). At that time, I wanted to step outside the usual coding and programming routine to explore how technology could solve real problems, especially in agriculture.
EYiA appeared at just the right time. Funny enough, I wasn’t accepted immediately. But I believed in myself, so I travelled down with my credentials to make my case in person. I explained why they should reconsider and pick me, and they did! That moment changed everything for me.
During EYiA
At Soilless FarmLab, I worked with over 1,000 young people from across Nigeria, from different states, backgrounds, and interests, all focused on one goal: building a strong food security system for today and the future.
As an intern, I have to manage and document activities for two greenhouses, while also taking part in the actual training activities. It was tough work, but I learned so much. Through the process, I became convinced that everyone, families, friends, and even people in cities, can learn to grow their own food, even on a small scale.
That belief later inspired me to create FarmCI, a project that helps families and communities grow food efficiently using hydroponic farming systems, while improving productivity for existing farmers.
After EYiA
My goal at Soilless FarmLab was to test and prove the FarmCI model under different conditions before sharing it widely. The process took three to four months of deep learning, creativity, and leadership, all packed into one unforgettable experience.
Since then, the knowledge and confidence I gained at EYiA have opened many doors. I’ve worked with people from different parts of the world, joined new projects, and received several opportunities.
It started with a ₦300,000 seed grant I won from the FMN competition, using the project I built during EYiA. From there, more achievements followed, including being recognized as one of the Top 100 Innovators in the TotalEnergies competition, joining the Orange Corners program (Netherlands), and many other awards.
Still Connected, Still Growing
Even after the program, the EYiA team and Soilless FarmLab kept supporting me whenever I needed help, especially in areas beyond my original skills.
The community continues to be a strong network for me and my project. As FarmCI keeps growing, that same EYiA spirit will remain a big part of our progress.
Looking back, the journey has been impactful, humbling, and truly worthwhile. EYiA didn’t just teach me, it transformed me.
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