Intars Bušinskis, a student on the professional bachelor's study programme "Commercial Activity and Enterprise Management" at the LLU Faculty of Economics and Social Development (ESAF) from Zirņi in the Saldus region, has always known he wanted to build something of his own. After visiting the largest ostrich farm in Latvia, he realised that he would breed ostriches. Last year he bought his first 11 birds, and this year a whole family, from which eggs can already be expected. Intars also wants to develop tourism, showing interested visitors not only the ostriches but also the pheasants gifted by his grandfather and an established cinema and photo exhibition. Last year, this was recognised with the Kurzeme Tourism Annual Award "Lielais Jēkabs". Meanwhile, the family farm "Ziķi", where Intars took his first steps towards realising his dream, can boast the title of Saldus Region Farmer of the Year. In addition to his studies, Intars is active in the LLU "Lielisko" league team.

How did your path lead to Jelgava and LLU?

My father's sister studied at the LLU Faculty of Agriculture. My brother also graduated as an "agronomist" and works on our parents' farm. It seemed that Jelgava was on the way to Riga and that living here was more affordable.

Why did you choose to study at ESAF specifically?

I have always wanted to create something of my own. At first, I thought about studying food technology, because my parents have a farm that produces milk, apples, and grain, and I wanted to manufacture products from them. I applied and got a state-funded place, but I was scared off by the chemistry. Then I found the "Commercial Activity and Enterprise Management" programme in the LLU prospectus and decided in its favour.