AT just 18, and fresh out of Year 13 at Baulevu High School, Nishal Narayan stands at the crossroads of entrepreneurship and youth leadership — a path he carved not from privilege, but from the quiet strength of the women who raised him.
Growing up in rural Tailevu, in the farming community of Baulevu, Nishal’s journey began on the land, under the guidance of a resilient mother and a grandmother whose wisdom shaped his character long before he understood the meaning of leadership.
“I was raised in a farming background,” he recalls.
“My mom did everything with strength and dignity. Watching her manage our home inspired my love for business more than any book or lecture.”
His grandmother’s teachings on humility, respect and patience became values he would later embed in his business and leadership philosophy.
Instead of rushing for quick success, she encouraged him to work steadily, to understand people, and to stay grounded.
Those lessons would prove vital as Nishal embarked on a journey few teenagers dare to take.
Today, Nishal is the Director of Pristine Agricultural Investment, a growing supplier of fresh produce to supermarkets and households.
His daily routine mirrors the hands-on spirit of traditional Fijian farming life: early mornings checking crops, ensuring quality, coordinating with suppliers, and managing finances with the precision of someone twice his age.
But what truly sets the company apart, he says, is its commitment to freshness, quality, and customer trust. Its flexible packaging options and reliability have earned oyal customers across the region.
Central to Nishal’s success is his mother, Risha Lata, who serves as the company manager.
“She has been my backbone,” he says proudly.
“Her support allows me to focus on growth and strategy. No business succeeds alone.”
In 2025, Nishal was selected as a Youth Parliamentarian, a moment he describes as “defining.”
“It made me even more determined to step into leadership roles that contribute to Fiji’s growth,” he says.
“I wanted to be a voice for young people — to understand how policies are made and bring fresh perspectives to the table.”
Agriculture and youth entrepreneurship remain his biggest priorities. He believes too many young people overlook agriculture as a viable career, despite it being the backbone of Fiji’s economy.
“I want to advocate for programs that support youth in agriculture and SMEs, training, resources, and opportunities that help them build sustainable futures.”
The experience has deepened his understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and small businesses, and influenced his decisions as a young entrepreneur.
Entrepreneurship hasn’t always come easy.
“I’ve doubted myself at times,” he admits.
“But I remind myself that in every room I sit in — even Youth Parliament — I am the youngest. That means I’m not behind anyone.”
Nishal has learned that entrepreneurship brings risks, sacrifices, and expensive lessons. But it also builds resilience, something he carries with pride.
His biggest dream is to retire his mum, make a difference through business and leadership, and one day become a millionaire.
Nishal’s ambitions stretch far beyond personal success. By 2026, he aims to build the largest nursery in the Central Division, a move he believes will strengthen local farming and create opportunities for rural communities.
His company already supports village suppliers and farmers by purchasing their produce and providing a reliable market.
For young people, he hopes his journey becomes proof that agriculture is not a “backward” career — but a powerful pathway into leadership, innovation, and financial independence.
“I see myself and Pristine Agricultural Investment becoming a multi-million-dollar company,” he says with confidence.
“I want us to play a major role in agriculture, the economy, and youth empowerment.”
His entrepreneurial dream of becoming the youngest millionaire in Fiji, is not just for wealth, but to create jobs, uplift farmers, and inspire youth.
His message to the youth of Fiji is clear: “believe in yourself and stay focused”.
“Avoid distractions — especially early age relationships. Dedication, discipline, and hard work are what turn dreams into reality.”
He also extends gratitude to his customers: for their trust and support and promises to continue providing fresh, high-quality products “every time.”
For Nishal, some parts of his journey can’t be fully put into words.
“There’s a lot I could share,” he reflects.
“But some things are simply ineffable.”
“They can only be experienced through dedication, hard work, and belief in your dreams.”
Farmer Nishal sells at the Nausori Market. Picture: SUPPLIED
Minister for Agriculture in the 2025 Youth Parliament, Nishal Narayan. Picture: SUPPLIED
Packed freshwater mussels at supermarket freezers, a product of Pristine Agricultural Investment, owned by 18-year-old Nishal Narayan.
Picture:
SUPPLIED
