Five minutes with… Hannah Rees, sales specialist and YFC champion

Hannah Rees is a 28-year-old member of Llys-y-fran YFC in Pembrokeshire. With an agricultural background and a passion for sustainability, Hannah is making significant contributions to the farming community, while inspiring others along the way.

Currently, she works as a technical sales specialist at TIMAC Agro UK, where she combines her agricultural expertise with a commitment to supporting farmers.

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Besides her main role, she volunteers with the DPJ Foundation, a Welsh mental health charity focused on the agricultural sector, serving as a regional champion for Pembrokeshire and promoting mental health awareness in the farming community.

Hannah’s journey into farming is deeply rooted in her family history. Her late father was a dairy farmer in Pembrokeshire, and she grew up surrounded by the rhythms of rural life.

After studying Agriculture at Gelli Aur College, she pursued a degree in Agriculture at Harper Adams University.

“Growing up around farming in a very rural county really shaped my path,” she says. “My father drew me into farming, taking me on silage outings as a child, showing me the calves, and later introducing me to lambing.”

Despite her strong connection to farming, Hannah had moments of doubt about her future in the industry, particularly because she didn’t have a farm of her own.

“I questioned my judgment at times, wondering if someone like me would have a future in farming. But exploring all the options at university showed me that there are many ways to be involved in agriculture without having a farm at home.”

Future planning

Looking ahead, Hannah has clear aspirations. She aims to continue her work in sustainability while remaining closely connected to livestock and dairy farming.

“In five years, it’s hard to tell exactly where I see myself, but I definitely want to stay within agriculture,” she says.

“I’d love to be linked with Young Farmers, giving back to the next generation in the way that I’ve been supported.”

In her spare time, Hannah enjoys riding her two ponies, Sophie and Connie. She has recently taken up in-hand showing and has had notable success, including a win at the Pembrokeshire County Show.

She also actively participates in Young Farmers competitions, with carcass stock judging being her favourite. “They don’t move, which makes it a lot easier!” she says.

When it comes to inspiration, Hannah looks up to Anna Bowen, who was recently named Dairy Industry Woman of the Year.

“She’s achieved so much and inspires me every day. If I can achieve half of what she has, I’ll be very, very happy.”

As a piece of advice to aspiring farmers, Hannah emphasises the importance of seizing opportunities within the Young Farmers community.

“I’d always advise everyone to take every opportunity given to them. Even if you’re unsuccessful, the saying goes, ‘the more you put in, the more you get out’.”