FAVA - Planting seeds and growing opportunity

The AMPLE Split-Dalmatia, branded locally as FAVA, was a project based on need that wanted to solve three problems. First of all, the school system in Croatia provides unique courses for young people with disabilities, in this case, assistant bakers, florists and gardeners. However the challenge when they leave school is finding them an accessible and understanding employer. Meanwhile, despite the abundance of wonderful, delicious and organic raw ingredients, people in Croatia often find themselves buying imported teas and spices, with the Dalmatian Herb Mix coming directly from… Austria. Finally, these ingredients and the products they make have slowly been replaced with faster, unhealthier options, and working with a school that trains nutritionists, provided us with the perfect opportunity to change this. 

With these goals in mind, the project had its main activities. At the beginning we trained 24 disadvantaged young people in cooking and budgeting skills. They learnt what a healthy dish looks like in reality, not just in books, and heard how to create a nutritious meal based on a variety of budgets. In total 10 workshops were held for each group, at the end of each they left full of information and food. 

 Recruitment for work trials commenced, and our plan was to see how existing assistants could adapt to a new model of work, and how those young people with disabilities who had just graduated could further increase their capacities and knowledge. We found five assistants interested in giving it a go, and provided them with contracts that increased their working hours. We also had initial interest from six young people, but due to personal reasons, after the first month we had a core team of four.  

Having chosen three days a week to work, they planted, transplanted, watered, pruned, dried and packaged all the herbs and teas they could possibly do over the summer months. Our mint, parsley, coriander and basil had the most success, in both fresh and dried forms. 

It wasn’t just organic local herbs we were focussing on, we also wanted to look at how we could create financial sustainability within the project. We had identified three products that encapsulated our project values, and we set to work on producing these natural energy bars, and further developing the local stock mix and zero-waste crackers. The proof was in the pudding - well energy bar - with our small production selling over 500 units during the project timeline. 

It was clear to see to the assistants and parents that through this methodology where more independence and responsibility was handed to the young people, they were able to thrive like never before. No more sitting at a desk, learning things that conflicted with what they wanted to do. Instead they had more flexibility and freedom in voicing their preferences. If they didn’t like dirty hands, they could water or pick. If they were more creative, they could paint and draw. Of course, some things just had to get done, as always Petar reminds us “sta se mora, mora se”. 

We also organised four picnics during the project to help us promote everything we were doing, and give the local community a reason to get together, get their facepainted and maybe doing a zumba move or two. We welcomed at least 50 people each time, made up of a nice balance of younger and older ones, and were able to mingle and share what the project was all about. Parents of children with disabilities were able to ask parents with older children about the system and process, gathering their feedback and experience. Other parents commented on how it was great to have events like this well marketed, because often things happen that no-one knows about. 

The project was drawing to a close, at least from an EIT Food sense, and the foundations were there to build on. Conversations with the local city and county had already started to look at how such a project could be continued, other places were taking note and asking for consultation on how to set up something similar in their location, and other parents were enquiring whether their children could be involved when they graduate. FAVA was never seen as a one off thing, and the past eight months was seen as phase one. A trial period to see what works and what doesn’t, to see where we can grow further and develop, and a bit of experience so we are abe to reach out to other organisations or funds for further support.  

Phase II has begun, and the official closing events of AMPLE Split Dalmatia are actually a celebration and a signal of what’s next to come. We want you all to be part of the journey, so please follow us on our social media accounts and website! 

When the AMPLE Split-Dalmatia Project began, we knew we wanted to create something meaningful for young people leaving school — a place where they could continue doing what they love, stay connected with their friends, and build real skills for the future. What we didn’t expect was that four young graduates would become the heart of the entire idea.  

The FAVAŠI — Tina, Marin, Ante and Petar — were the original team, the inspiration behind every workshop, seedling, and product. Their energy, curiosity, and commitment shaped the direction of the project from the start, and everything we have today is because of the spirit they brought with them. 

From left to right, our team begins with Tina, who quickly became known as the queen of stamping. She handled administrative tasks with precision and calm, showing how attention to detail can transform even the smallest job into something important. 

Next is Marin, whose culinary skills surprised everyone — including his mother, who didn’t know he could chop onions with such confidence. He took care of the garden too, making sure every bed was tidy, picking up any litter, and nurturing the plants with real care. 

Ante brought order and reflection into the daily routine. He loved a clean workspace and grew through the reflective activities we introduced, improving his reading and writing skills along the way. His focus on tidiness and organisation gave balance to the whole group. 

And then we have Petar, a natural supervisor from day one. He liked to think ahead, suggesting next steps, planning the work, and guiding the team with gentle leadership. With just a little mentoring, he showed how strong his process-management instincts really are. 

Their project manager said it perfectly: 
“They enjoyed every moment of the project. They loved their work, did every task without complaint, and created a little community we are all proud of. Working with them has been a joy — not only for them, but for us too.” 

It wasn’t only the FAVAŠI who grew during the project — their families, friends, and the wider community became part of this journey too. 

Tina’s mother, Liljana, shared how the project changed their perspective: 

“We believed we knew our child well, but Tina surprised us with her joy and approach to the work. Instead of worrying about what comes after school, she happily went ‘to work’ and improved her skills. This project opened a new, motivating world for her, and it eased our worries as parents.” 

Ante’s parents felt the same sense of belonging: 

“Our Ante went to FAVA with joy, and we were happy he could be part of the team. Over time, we all became like a small FAVA family, with similar life challenges. We are grateful that someone recognised the needs of our children — and of us — and gave them a chance to show how capable they are, not only in work but also in socialising and enjoying a coffee together. We hope they will continue to grow. We are deeply thankful that someone besides us thinks about our heroes.” 

Petar’s mother added: 

“It was wonderful to watch Petar in the FAVA project. The experience enriched him with new skills, teamwork, and a sense of community. Projects like this truly enrich the lives of both children and parents.” 

Together, their stories show why this work matters. FAVA became more than a project — it became a community, a space where young people feel valued, where parents feel supported, and where everyone involved gets to witness real growth. 

And just like seeds planted in good soil, this is only the beginning.