When I first joined the FoodBack project in May 2024, I was already in to sustainable agriculture and had this idea: to start a business that could support farmers while protecting the environment. That vision eventually took shape as Leaf Green — an organic, eco-friendly insecticide designed to protect grape crops by transforming decomposed organic waste into a valuable natural product.
The FoodBack journey took me to a local workshop, an international youth seminar, and then a month of job-shadowing in Macedonia. 
Every stage helped me grow, but it was during the job shadowing that Leaf Green really evolved from a good idea into a proper project.
My first step was at a local workshop in Macedonia, where I got to know the basics of agrofood entrepreneurship and sustainability. It was there that I initially came up with the idea of Leaf Green, and I realised how important it is to use less chemicals and to have healthier farming practices. A few months later, the Youth Seminar in Italy opened even broader horizons. I got some great ideas and a lot of encouragement to think bigger when I presented my project to a group of young people from all over the world. Meeting people from different countries who were passionate about sustainability showed me that my idea was part of a larger movement.
The job shadowing was a great opportunity to get deeper into my project and open my eyes to what it takes to launch and sustain a real business. I spent four weeks getting to grips with all aspects of setting up a sustainable agrofood company. I worked on improving Leaf Green’s business model, making sure it could be both profitable and sustainable. I used to find financial planning a bit scary, but it’s a great way to feel more in control of your money. I’ve learned how to predict costs, income and investments, and it’s made me feel more confident about the future.
Marketing and branding were also really important. I’ve learned how to tell the story of Leaf Green in a way that strikes a chord with potential customers as well as partners and supporters who share the same vision for a greener future. I’ve learned a lot about customer engagement (I got to present my project at University too!!). All of that’s helped me improve my business idea that’s not only good in theory but also attractive and practical for the real market.
Another experience during this phase was the chance to present my business plan at a university event. Standing before professors, students, and entrepreneurs to show Leaf Green and answer their questions was pretty stressful, but also really rewarding. Their feedback helped me reflect on my project to perfection, getting it ready for the next steps.
During the job shadowing, one thing was made super clear: entrepreneurship isn’t just about having a good idea. It’s also about being resilient, adapting to challenges and keeping your eyes on the bigger picture, even when things get tricky.
Looking ahead now, I’m feeling good about how Leaf Green is shaping up. I’m wrapping up product development and need to find some kind of funding so I can get ready to pilot tests with local farmers and wineries, and planning how to gradually expand throughout Macedonia and, eventually, across the Balkans.
Best of all, thanks to the FoodBack experience, I’ve got a business plan and a mindset that’s all about sustainability, innovation and perseverance. It has has taught me that small ideas, when stimulated with the right tools and spirit, can grow into powerful forces for change.
If you’re dreaming of making a difference through entrepreneurship, I’ve got some simple advice: believe in your idea, stay open to learning, and trust the process. We need bold solutions, and we need to start with each of us taking the first step.
Elena
