Ohio FFA State Secretary Connects Agriculture Across Continents

Abbey Garland and the rest of the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers travelers on the last day of the trip.

When Abbey Garland first arrived in Spain, one thing stood out: Spaniards deeply respect their heritage. Over 2,000 years, many religions, rulers and regional powers have shaped their country. Spaniards preserve and recognize each of these influences throughout the country.

Garland traveled to Spain through the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers (ILSSO). This trip was not just about sightseeing; it helped her gain a new perspective on agriculture policy.

For Garland, one experience in particular shifted her thinking. “Hearing firsthand how policy decisions ripple into real agricultural operations reshaped my perspective on agricultural trade,” she says.

The First Farm

One of Garland’s favorite memories happened during the group’s first farm visit near Barcelona. The group had the opportunity to tour an organic regenerative produce operation.

Before the trip, ILSSO travelers were all asked to learn and practice basic Spanish phrases. Throughout the trip, they were encouraged to use the language to interact with locals.

During the tour, Garland and those around her used their Spanish to get to know the farmer. The group asked the farmer the name of her dog, who was a loyal companion throughout the tour. The farmer responded with enthusiasm and grace when she realized the group was speaking her language.

“This was a memorable moment because our host extended grace and enthusiasm when we spoke in her language,” Garland says. “A great encouragement to try new things!”

Garland meets a farm dog during a visit to an organic regenerative produce farm near Barcelona.

Agriculture Across the World

The trip also helped Garland gain new insight into how agriculture differs around the world. She spoke about the regulatory differences between Spain and the U.S. when it comes to genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

“The U.S. system is designed to promote innovation and productivity while ensuring safety,” she says. “Spain’s framework reflects stronger consumer skepticism that prioritizes environmental protection and transparency.” Each approach is different, but both are valuable.

Garland also visited a Spanish cattle farmer who explained how a pending trade deal could drastically affect beef prices in his country. Since Garland’s Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) focuses on agricultural journalism, she often writes about trade policy. Now, she knows the headline isn’t oceans away; it’s affecting real farm families and their livelihoods.

The 70% Is Yours

Garland connected with others on her trip, including Kinzie, a past Louisiana FFA state secretary, and Lucy Beth, the Tennessee FFA state treasurer. “ILSSO is helping me grow through fruitful relationships with other young leaders,” Garland says.

As Ohio FFA state secretary, Garland learned about the 70-20-10 rule — the first 10% of growth comes from formal learning, 20% comes from relationships and 70% comes from real-world experiences. For her, Spain was a huge part of that 70%. For many FFA members, their SAE, signing up to try something new or speaking up with a new idea is part of the 70%.

“If we lack the humility to ask questions, we are helpless,” Garland says. “When we are humble enough to ask questions, we are unstoppable.”