As you explore the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo, there’s a good chance you may cross paths with some familiar faces.
In addition to posting captivating content, social media influencers Tyler Froberg (@farmer.froberg), Noah Young (@theshilohfarm), Tucker Brown (@tuckerbrownrab), Emma Seamons (@agwithemma) and Emma Coffman (@double_e_ranch_) are inspiring convention attendees — and FFA members tuning in from home — to continue sharing their stories with others.
“Don’t be afraid to try everything,” says Froberg, who’s created short-form reels throughout convention. “There’s so much to do here, so go out and try it. Even if you didn’t make it in your competition this year, keep trying because you can make it next year.”
Coffman, on the other hand, has been working at the Ag Gear clothing booth in the shopping mall. She says agriculture is the best industry to get involved in.
“Whether you’re from an agriculture background, you’re [the] first generation or you’re just trying to figure out where your place is in the world, I think this is the best industry to get your feet wet and start,” she adds.
Brown not only uses social media, but hosts a podcast and uses public speaking as a tool to advocate. He says it’s the people in agriculture that make the industry special.
“This is a place that can really set you up,” Brown says about the opportunities available in the Expo Hall. “I think one thing people don’t take advantage of the most is getting to know people within the industry that they want to be in. [This] gives you a foot into the industry that you love and a job that you want to be in.”
Seamons got involved in agriculture through FFA, so she’s enjoyed interacting with everyone at convention and being part of something bigger than herself. “It’s just insane how many people you can come across and the experiences you can have because of other people’s experiences,” she adds.
Although Young wasn’t part of the National FFA Organization as a student, he’s been impressed by the number of competitions and skills that students can take part in and gain as a member.
“Seeing all the different industries that are here right now, there’s so much energy,” Young says. “It makes me want to be a better advocate for the industry and share stories to get more [young people] involved in this organization.”
