Hannah Ellis’s life changed after she won the Kentucky State FFA Talent contest. Through that experience, the former member of the Taylor County FFA in Campbellsville, Ky., was empowered to pursue music seriously, and now she’s kicking off a tour with CMT. Learn more about her journey, then use that inspiration to apply for a spot in the National FFA Band, Chorus or Talent programs.
Q: When did you get active in FFA, and what are some of the things you enjoyed in the organization?
A: I joined FFA my freshman year of high school. One of my favorite things was always the National FFA Convention & Expo. Meeting people from all over the country was so special.
Q: When did you compete in the Kentucky State FFA Talent contest, and what was the outcome? What was the experience like?
A: I competed my junior year and I won! I met some people who I would go on to create music with in the future. Everyone was so supportive, and it really made me fall more in love with FFA.
Q: Where did your FFA journey take you after winning the Kentucky State FFA Talent contest?
A: I got to perform in the National FFA Talent program! Performing on that stage in Indianapolis in front of 50,000 people was one of the defining moments in my life that made me want to pursue music as a career. I will never forget the feeling I got from that moment.
Q: What are you doing today, and how did your time in FFA help you find success?
A: I am starting on my first full-blown tour with CMT Next Women of Country! Being part of FFA gave me the opportunity to perform in front of a crowd I never would have had otherwise. This organization also taught me that hard work is the only way to accomplish anything. My advisors and mentors were always so supportive of me and pushed me to be even better. Even this very interview happened through someone I met when I was a performer at the National FFA Convention & Expo.
Q: What’s your advice for FFA members today?
A: Take every chance you get to experience something new. I was apprehensive about joining FFA when I first got to high school, but it turned out to be one of the most special experiences of my life. Doing something out of your comfort zone is going to challenge and push you to heights you didn’t know were possible.
Are you interested in participating in the National FFA Band, Chorus or Talent programs during the National FFA Convention & Expo? Learn more and apply today! Applications close on July 15, 2019.
