An interview with Esther Joann Phillips
Hello and welcome!
Meet 17 year old, Esther Joann Phillips—The One-der Woman Band—she plays not 2 or 3, but 5 instruments together! Phew.
She likes to be called Joann, is the youngest of four, and a quiet, typical high school student.
You don’t meet too many her age who have their goals and priorities so clear. Let’s get to know her a bit more.
What is the greatest blessing in ur life?
Joann: Apart from family, the community (Joann’s family is part of the ICPE mission).
It’s great you mention that coz I’ve always wondered what it’s like to be the youngest in the family?
Joann: Pampered… Everyone treats me like a baby. That has both an advantage and a disadvantage… I love being the youngest anyways… My siblings give me words of wisdom so I learn from my older ones.
What’s the one thing most people don’t see in you, but you know you possess?
Joann: I’m really talkative and crazy.. only the ones close to me will know that.
What’s your favorite food and drink?
Joann: Junk and I love drinking so no favourites.
How would you describe yourself?
Joann: An instrument of God.
Favorite song?
Joann: Hard to decide.
Favorite artist?
Joann: I have too many.
Favorite bible verse?
Joann: “He that is in you is greater than he who is in the world” – 1 John 4:4
Any saint who inspires you?
Joann: Mother Teresa of child Jesus, St. Joseph, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Cecilia, St. Josephine Bakitha
What’s it like to be a christian at college?
Joann: It’s challenging because there are times where people make fun of Jesus. Sometimes it’s funny, but if we stand for our faith, they mock us…
That sounds tough. It sure isn’t easy. Your dream career?
Joann: Musician.
What draws you to music?
Joann: Music is another way to bring my emotions out… and also the way music speaks to people makes me wanna play it more cuz that’s one way I can talk to people and make them happy too.
What’s the first instrument you learnt to play?
Joann: Guitar … As a child I always loved that instrument… An uncle used to play it and watching him play inspired me. Mom and dad used to buy me toy guitars and encourage me.
What inspired you to do the ‘One Woman Band—Alleluia?’
Joann: I was in the 8th grade when I learnt to play the guitar, and then I was gifted a harmonica… So I learnt the harmonica and guitar together.
Then I was sitting on the bed and was kicking it like the drum kick, later I just kept adding instruments. It just came about like that…
And it’s come out so beautifully. Anything else other than music you are passionate about?
Joann: I also love science, especially space.
If you were to go to space for 3 months. What are the 3 things you would take with you?
Joann: My instruments,
I should have guessed that! What would you like adults to know about teenagers?
Joann: Some adults don’t understand what teenagers go through.
I’d say, be there for teens and not judge and compare, but patiently listen to their struggles.
What do you see yourself doing 10 years from now?
Joann: Being a musician and also a worship leader. Starting my own school for children who are interested in anything.
Aah, that does sound exciting. Wishing you all the very best Joann and looking forward to your exclusive performance on Faith Blocks for the little ones. I’m so excited!
Join our Facebook group to learn more ways of making faith fun for you and your kids.
