Breaking barriers in kava science: Deepti Devi’s groundbreaking research
Deepti Devi is making history in Fiji’s kava research, a field traditionally dominated by men. As part of her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at Fiji National University (FNU), she is conducting groundbreaking work to analyse the kavalactone content in the roots and rhizomes of different kava varieties.
Kavalactones are the active chemical compounds responsible for kava’s sedative properties. By studying their variations, Deepti’s research aims to enhance quality control, support farmers and strengthen Fiji’s kava export industry.
The world of kava farming and research has long been male-dominated, and Deepti has had to navigate gender biases along the way.
“During one of my postgraduate units, I proposed conducting kava research, only to be met with laughter from some male students who believed it wasn’t a field for women. But rather than being discouraged, I used these experiences as motivation. Gender bias and stereotyping are still issues in science and agriculture, but I believe women must continue to break barriers, promote diversity, and contribute valuable perspectives,” she says.
Deepti’s research extends beyond the laboratory. She, her supervisor and the Fiji National Facilitator of the Australia and New Zealand funded Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) Program travelled across Fiji, carefully selecting samples from 13 classified kava varieties before bringing them back to the lab for kavalactone analysis. She collaborates closely with her supervisor, Professor Tibor Pasinszki, and receives field support from PHAMA Plus National Facilitator, David Hickes, who helps with sample collection.
“Where do I begin with challenges? Haha! The most memorable were Kadavu and Saqani. In Kadavu, we hiked for three and a half hours uphill on rocky terrain to reach a farm 1,602 feet above sea level. Oh, my goodness, we walked and walked with all our gear! It was exhausting, but I was glad I had prepared by hydrating and eating well before the track.
Saqani, however, was the toughest site visit of my life. We left at 9:30 AM and didn’t return until 7:30 PM. After collecting samples, we sent them down with our guide as it was getting dark. By 5:00 PM, it was pitch black, and then the rain started pouring. We had to hold hands and make our way down a muddy horse track, slipping and falling through knee-deep mud. At one point, we lost our way and had to backtrack. All I kept thinking was: When will this end? How much further? Are we there yet? Despite the hardships, these experiences have shaped me into who I am today.”
“Another incident was in Ovalau, where we had to do three sites in a day. The farmer and the extension officer said it was just close by,but we hiked till we saw the foot of the mountain, I couldn’t take it and I fainted. I was glad that David came to my rescue. It was challenging though but at the end of the day, it was a successful trip.”
Deepti’s research has been made possible through the PHAMA Plus program, which aims to improve the quality, standards and market access of agricultural products in the Pacific.
Balancing fieldwork, extensive lab analysis, and data collection is demanding. But on top of that, Deepti is also a mother and wife. Managing personal and professional responsibilities is challenging, but she finds balance through planning, delegation and strong family support.
“Before I chose this path, I explained to my family that my work would mean being away from home frequently. Some people told me I was selfish for choosing my career over my family, that I should stay home, cook and look after my son. But that didn’t stop me. I have a very supportive husband who supports my career and I’m incredibly grateful!”