In Mariana, a region in Timor-Leste where Justino grew up, raising pigs is a way of life for many. Feeding the pigs, listening to their squeals, and spending time with them was a familiar part of Justino's everyday routine. As an adult, he dreamed of starting his own pig farm. But without proper knowledge of how to care for the animals, he eventually had to let go of that dream.

“I must have thought about why my pig farm failed hundreds of times. I even went around asking neighbors who run pig farms in the village. That’s when I realized that passion and hard work alone aren’t enough to succeed.”

As Justino talked to his neighbors and reflected on his experiences, he realized that the seemingly happy village had its own hidden struggles. Most of the farmers raising pigs didn’t know how to properly manage feed. They were feeding their pigs old or spoiled feed, which led to frequent illnesses and poor health among the pigs. This, in turn, caused significant financial losses for the farmers who relied on selling pork for their income.

“That’s when I understood that this wasn’t just a problem with my farm. It was an issue for the entire community,” Justino explained. “So, I decided to learn how to manage feed hygienically and share that knowledge with my neighbors. I believed that if the pigs could eat clean, healthy feed, they would become healthier, and the farmers would see an increase in their income. Now, I’m ready to apply what I’ve learned and restart Rea Farm with the right approach to pig farming.”

Justino plans to build clean and cozy pig pens and install automatic water dispensers so the pigs can always drink clean water. He also intends to work closely with local veterinarians to take care of the pigs’ health. To prevent diseases, the pigs will undergo regular health checkups, and if any pig gets sick, it will be treated quickly to stop the illness from spreading to others.

By keeping the farm clean and well-maintained, the pigs will grow healthier, and the farmers will be able to produce more pork. When the pigs don’t fall ill, the risk of disease outbreaks will decrease, helping everyone in the village stay healthy. Additionally, producing more pork on the farm will create more job opportunities for the local community.

Justino also plans to run educational programs to support neighboring farms. These programs will teach farmers how to improve pig feed and how to turn pig manure into fertilizer, helping them reduce costs. By building a network among local farms, he aims to foster a warm and supportive community where everyone can help and rely on one another.

Thanks to these efforts, neighboring pig farmers will gain confidence and be able to raise pigs more successfully. Justino envisions a future where pork is reliably supplied across Timor-Leste, and farmers can sell their pork at better prices in the market. Rea Farm will be more than just a pig farm, it will be a special place that uplifts both the village and the farming community.

Justino wishes to create the Rea Farm that grows alongside the village. With healthy pigs raised in a clean and caring environment, the farm will help bring warmth and prosperity to the community. Let’s support Justino’s second dream and help it come true!