2020 has brought unprecedented challenges across every aspect of life and work worldwide. Incredible people have risen to the challenge—pivoting, reinventing, reimagining and working harder than ever before. Birmingham’s non-profit leaders transformed annual galas into virtual gatherings, transitioned runs into races for runners to complete on their own time, and innovated new ways to raise funds and provide services to those in need throughout the Magic City. We asked our nonprofit partners to nominate the volunteers who helped them get through this year. We are proud to spotlight some of the individuals who played integral roles as Birmingham’s 2020 Trailblazers.

Name: Taleisha Ming White

Work: Regions Bank

Charity: The Junior League of Birmingham

Motivation: I joined the Junior League of Birmingham because it’s an empowering volunteer organization built on servant leadership.  I’ve always been surrounded by strong women, many of them League members.  The things they were able to accomplish when they joined together was nothing short of amazing.  The Junior League of Birmingham is a group of dynamic women working hand in hand with our communities while supporting and uplifting each other.

What I Gained from 2020: It’s very easy to look at 2020 as the year you just want to be over.  Living in the mist of COVID-19, social unrest and racial injustice hasn’t been easy. However, even in the middle of chaos, uncertainty and pain, there are these flickers of light. Specifically for me, it’s time with my family, helping others and watching revolutionary movements unfold.  Some of us may have to dig a little deeper to find this light.  But once you find it and feel it’s warmth, hold on to that.

Check out all of our 2020 Trailblazers here!

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