Teaching What School Didn’t: A West Virginian’s Passion Project Sparks Real Change

April 02, 2026

London Donahoe (he/him) is a high school student and Appalachian activist with a creative spark and bold vision for change. As the founding hub coordinator of West Virginia’s first Sunrise Movement Hub—a nationwide environmental advocacy group championing a more sustainable future. He advocates for policy, builds community, and pushes for positive change through organizing. An active member of FBLA and DECA, he co-leads initiatives to improve financial literacy and equips young people with the tools they need to be successful. London also founded Galant Magazine, an innovative startup where art meets activism, sparking fresh conversation and reimagining how we view magazines. Whether he’s knocking on doors, listening to Beyoncé on repeat, or geeking out over public transportation, he finds ways to balance his passions with everyday life. Drawing on his journey with mental health, London turns his challenges into fuel to make positive change. London’s constant goal is to make the world a more peaceful, loving, and kind place, and there could not be a better organization than Born This Way to accomplish that.

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In a state where economic challenges shape everyday life, one West Virginia high school student is working to change the narrative. Through a youth-led financial literacy initiative, Huntington High School student Jenna Lindsey and her peers are leading workshops, breaking down complex money concepts, and empowering their peers with the tools to make informed financial decisions.

 

 

Founded in 2024 through her school’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter, the project started in classrooms within her own community and quickly expanded. Born This Way Youth Advisory Board Member, London Donahoe, spoke with her on the importance of this project and its broader impact in Appalachia and beyond.

 

 

London sits down with Jena, the West Virginia high school student and founder of “Future Finance Leaders Initiative.”

 

 

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