Tori Taylor on the Next Generation of Memphis Leaders, Her New Role at BRIDGES & More
Latoria "Tori" Taylor didn’t set out to build a nonprofit career, but she found herself drawn repeatedly to missions that mattered. Now, returning to BRIDGES — the Memphis organization that helped shape her path — she’s bringing a deep sense of purpose to the role. Image: Impact Lyfe Media
Memphis-raised and deeply rooted in faith and family, Latoria “Tori” Taylor holds a role at BRIDGES that is both strategic and deeply personal. A former Bridge Builders participant, she now leads the organization’s philanthropic efforts as the Vice President of Development and Communications — amplifying the voices of Memphis youth who are not just dreaming of change but making it. Get to know this dedicated FACE of Memphis!
You’re stepping into this role as someone who once stood in the shoes of the young people BRIDGES serves. What would your teenage self think of the woman you’ve become?
Teenage Tori would be so proud of the woman I’ve become. I was still discovering my voice back then, but I always had a heart for people and a desire to serve. I didn’t know what it would look like, but I knew I wanted to make a difference — whether that meant offering a helping hand, bringing joy to someone’s day, or simply being present.
What she wouldn’t be surprised by is how much my faith has guided me. My journey into nonprofit work and fundraising wasn’t something I planned, but it was part of God’s plan. I walked into this work mindlessly at times, but boldly, because I trusted that I was being led to something greater. My faith is the foundation of how I lead, serve, and love people.
If you could bottle one lesson from your Bridge Builders experience and give it to every Memphis teenager, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially when you don’t understand. As a teenager, I was often timid and hesitant to speak up. I’d hold back from asking “why?” or sharing my perspective, even when I had something valuable to say.
What I’ve learned over time is that asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength, curiosity, and growth. So I would encourage every young person to be bold, speak up respectfully, and not be afraid to say, “I don’t understand,” or “Can you help me?” Whether you’re in a classroom, at a job, or standing up for what you believe in, your voice matters, and asking questions is how you learn, connect, and lead.
You’ve said that you stumbled into nonprofit work by accident. Tell us about that.
Every time I share this story, I can’t help but smile. It’s a reminder of how beautifully God can lead you into your calling, even when you don’t see it coming.
I started my career at Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association (MIFA), working in the Operations Department. One day, the Development team asked for volunteers to help with a fundraiser. I signed up for a two-hour shift, not knowing it would change the entire trajectory of my life.
I had so much fun welcoming people and sharing MIFA’s mission. Unknowingly, I was leaving an impression. A few weeks later, I was asked to join the Development team as the Development Coordinator. Before I knew it, I was promoted to Development Officer for Corporate Giving.
From there, God opened the next door, which would shape me in ways I couldn’t imagine: a position at the National Civil Rights Museum. It was fundraising on a new level, and I was challenged and empowered. I found myself using my voice to raise money for an institution that honored an era pivotal to my very freedom — an era that made it possible for me to be in rooms where my voice should be heard.
Was there an “aha” moment when you realized this was more than just a job?
One unforgettable moment happened during my time at the National Civil Rights Museum. I had the privilege of leading a private tour for some incredible guests, including Angela Bassett, Hill Harper, and a few others. Watching their faces as they moved through the exhibits — feeling the weight of the history, asking thoughtful questions, and hugging me afterward — was surreal.
In that moment, I realized the power of storytelling and connection, and that fundraising is not just about raising money but also about preserving legacy and inspiring change.
We often hear about “the next generation of leaders.” What do you think this generation is teaching us about leadership?
This generation is teaching us that leadership doesn’t have to look like it always has. And honestly, I love that. I like to say I’m Gen Z at heart! I still need my paper and pen sometimes, but I’ve learned to embrace how technology and creativity shape how we lead, learn, and connect.
Today’s young leaders value tradition, but they’re not bound by it. They’re showing us that less can be more, that trends — when used with intention — can be powerful tools for storytelling, movement-building, and connection. They’re challenging us to diversify how we show up, communicate, and build community.
What’s something about Memphis that gives you hope?
What gives me hope about Memphis is the good: the beauty, brilliance, and resilience that make the city such a gem. From the music and food to the deep-rooted history and rich diversity, there’s nowhere else like it. It saddens me when we allow the bad to overshadow all the powerful, positive things happening here every single day.
What inspires me most is the historical faith woven into the fabric of Memphis. From its churches and civil rights legacy to how communities show up for each other, faith has always anchored this city. That kind of spiritual and cultural strength gives me hope.
Switching gears a little, what’s one thing about you that would surprise your colleagues?
Four of my closest friends and I have a podcast called SistaStory. You can check us out on YouTube Live every Monday at 6:30 p.m. CST. We are taking a summer break, but we will be back in the fall. Oh! I don’t like sweet tea, and I just learned the mixture of lemonade and tea is called an Arnold Palmer. I thought it was “armour-palmer”… don’t laugh!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten?
You are entitled to make mistakes. That’s the only way you will learn!
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
My Saturday mornings watching Good Times, butter pecan ice cream, and a good manicure and pedicure.
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For more inspirational FACES of Memphis, visit our archives.
Gaye Swan
As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about life in Memphis, she grew up in Meridian and is still a Mississippi girl at heart.