Unifi celebrates Black History Month

If you ask Willie Ponder, the challenges he’s faced in life have only made him stronger and wiser.

Willie, 64, has worked for Unifi (and Delta Global Services) for nearly 25 years. He started as a wheelchair pusher and is currently a performance manager. He’s also a U.S. Army Veteran – stationed twice in South Korea and for five years in Germany.

Reflecting on his life, Willie says the racism he felt in his youth and military days are moments he won’t forget, but he’s also long since forgiven.

“The first memory I have of really experiencing racism was growing up in Georgia in the 8th grade. It was 1972, and it was the first year they had Black and white kids play on the same football team,” Willie recalls.

“I loved football, and even though I made the team, I never got to try out for the position I wanted. We also learned, years later, that when college scouts visited and showed interest in any of the Black players – the coaches never told us. So, there were many opportunities we were denied, but it doesn’t help to hold on to that anger,” he says. “It takes too much energy.”

When you hear Willie’s powerful outlook on life, it comes as no surprise that one of his biggest heroes is Nelson Mandela.

“He was in prison for 27 years and then became President of South Africa. It’s incredible what he achieved and how much he persevered. I wish more young people looked up to people like that.”

These days Willie says he tries to engage with younger colleagues – especially those of color.

“I try to mentor them, ask them about their goals and going to school, and what is happening in their life. It’s how I’m doing my part.”

Willie also says he feels pride when seeing black industry leaders – pilots and executives. “I wish we had more, but I respect them when I see them because I recognize their journey wasn’t easy.”

As for Willie’s own future?

“I’ll be right here, working in aviation for as long as possible.”