Kadeema Jean, from the northern community of Penville, Dominica has been riding a wave of successes since her migration to Canada in 2019 where she began her studies in agriculture. In 2021, she successfully completed her Bachelors of Applied Science degree in Agribusiness at Olds College in Alberta, graduating with high honors. Moreover, she currently holds the post of Business Analyst at UFA Co-operative Ltd, a member-owned agriculture co-operative dedicated to building prosperity in rural Alberta.
Interestingly, Jean expressed, “I chose agriculture because of the opportunities in creating value added products from raw agricultural materials. My father is a farmer and I have a special love for food.” Her fondness for agriculture has driven her to be an active participant in a number of agro-related activities such as competitions.
In 2020, Jean won the UFA Innovation Day Pitch Competition with her business idea DomCan Biodegradables. As per Jean, DomCan Biodegradables is an environmentally friendly business that will manufacture water resistant containers for the commercial food service industry, to enhance the take out experience and improve the integrity of the containers.
More recently, on February 10th 2022, Jean won the Rotary Den Virtual Pitch Competition Finals with a more extensive pitch on DomCan Biodegradables. She placed first and took home the $2,000 cash prize. Additionally, she was chosen as the people’s favorite among the six participants to win the $500 scholarship prize to attend a two-week online entrepreneurship program through Draper University in California for having the top pitch.
Remarkably, she expressed, “I’m very elated that I’ve won the competition because it provided me with yet another opportunity to be an ambassador for my country and has brought me one step closer on my entrepreneurial journey as a young woman in the agricultural industry.” She added, “The scholarship to attend Draper University will play an essential role in enhancing my knowledge and skills in entrepreneurship and make DomCan Biodegradables a reality.”
Notably, this competition opens way for persons to start their innovative and entrepreneurial journey, while consistently working towards advancing agriculture. Jean hopes that her successes in these competitions will pave the way for future opportunities.
Pointedly, she noted that her journey, though filled with successes has not been easy. “I have had the challenges of cultural adjustment and learning the difference between agricultural crops and animals, grown and reared here on large scales compared to those at home,” she stated. Moreover, she articulated, “It was also hard being the only colored woman in my major at my school. Being the minority as a female and as a colored person made it difficult to develop social ties initially.”
Nevertheless, she highlighted that she has been able to overcome these challenges by listening and paying close attention to her surroundings. Furthermore, she explained that she has reverted to believing in herself and talking with family and friends, to develop a healthy support system.
Upon interview with Emonews, Jean took the time to thank everyone who has contributed significantly to her journey. “I would like to thank my family, friends and mentors. Special thanks to my mentor Rita Egizii who has been a source of constant guidance and motivation,” she expressed.
Jean encourages young persons to pray and have faith in their abilities and to remain committed and fully invested in everything they do. “Have patience. Listen when constructive feedback is given, believe in yourself and take risks,” she advised.
While she is currently residing and working in Canada, Jean is confident that she will make meaningful contributions to her community Penville and by extension the agricultural industry in Dominica.
