My name is Ivana, and when I joined the FoodBack, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. What I found was a transformative experience that combined learning, creativity, and sustainability in a way I had never experienced before.
The program introduced me to the world of agro-food entrepreneurship in practice. Until then, my understanding of sustainability was mostly theoretical. But during the job shadowing, I could see how circular economy and ecological principles worked in everyday life: nothing was wasted, resources were reused, and knowledge was constantly shared.
We learned how to design business plans, plant medicinal herbs, and even organize small environmental actions. These activities showed me how a business can be more than just profit-oriented—it can be rooted in ecological responsibility and community engagement.
Together with Saska, I worked on developing the idea of producing natural paints from food waste. At first, the idea 
seemed almost too creative to be real. But as we tested processes and explored the market, I realized how much potential it carried: turning kitchen scraps into paints for artists, students, schools, and eco-shops. Even the leftovers from paint production could be composted, closing the cycle and reinforcing the message of sustainability.
This process taught me that innovation often comes from looking at problems differently. Food waste is usually seen as something negative, but in this project, it became the source of something inspiring.
One of the most valuable aspects of FoodBack was the mentorship. Facilitators guided us with patience, while our local mentors supported us in connecting what we learned to our own communities. I also learned a lot from my peers—each participant brought a unique background, and exchanging experiences made the learning richer and more grounded.
I also discovered how NGOs function, how they design and implement projects, and how they create impact in local communities. This gave me new ideas for my own future and a better understanding of how I could contribute to sustainability efforts back home.
FoodBack wasn’t only about business planning and sustainability—it was also about people. Sharing meals, cultural traditions, and personal stories created bonds that made the whole journey unforgettable. For me, this human connection is just as important as the technical knowledge. It reminded me that change doesn’t happen alone; it happens when communities work together.
I left the program feeling inspired and motivated. The FoodBack experience convinced me that sustainability can and should be integrated into any business idea. Whether I continue developing “Colours Without Guilt” with Saska or explore other eco-social projects, I now carry with me the skills, knowledge, and confidence to move forward.
Most of all, I carry gratitude—for the mentors who guided us, the organizations that supported us, and the friends I made along the way. FoodBack has shown me that even small ideas can grow into something meaningful when nurtured with care, collaboration, and vision.
Ivana
