Isgandar Shiralizada’s deep-rooted passion for bees and honey traces back to his childhood in Bilasuvar, Azerbaijan. His fascination with his mother’s honey-based desserts sparked his curiosity about the creatures behind the sweetness. Isgandar’s dream of keeping bees began at a young age, and with his mother’s support, he invested in his first bee colony in his early twenties. Through mentorship from experienced beekeepers and training courses, he honed his skills in beekeeping. His career took off after participating in an FAO-supported project aimed at empowering youth in agriculture.
With FAO’s assistance, Isgandar pioneered “Smart Bee Houses” that revolutionized beekeeping practices. These innovative devices use sensors to monitor bee health and optimize honey production, setting new standards in the industry. Equipped with essential agricultural tools, Isgandar saw a significant increase in his honey production and doubled his earnings. Now, he shares his expertise with aspiring beekeepers through training programs and sees the potential for youth in the beekeeping sector.
Isgandar’s commitment to guiding the next generation of beekeepers is fueled by his children’s enthusiasm for apiculture, demonstrating the appeal of a career in beekeeping for young individuals. He believes that beekeeping not only connects youth with nature but also offers sustainable and profitable career opportunities. As he continues to mentor and innovate in the field, Isgandar strives to inspire young people to pursue a rewarding career in beekeeping.
