Giving Compass' Take:

• The Mission Continues tells the story of Carolina, an immigrant, military veteran, and fashion designer who decided that after completing a five year ESL program, she would join the Navy and then create her own clothing line.  

• How does Carolina's story relate to a larger story about immigration in America? 

• Read about the ways immigration can enhance a country's culture. 

Inspired by her childhood in Mexico, Carolina was destined to become a fashion designer with a purpose. Carolina said, “I used to observe my mother making clothes for my siblings and myself. Seeing her transform fabrics into garments intrigued me to the point that it motivated me to come to the United States.”

Thrust into a different culture and language was challenging — but she pushed herself to adapt to her new environment. For five years she worked during the day and completed English as Second Language classes (ESL) at night.

In 2005, Carolina walked into her local military recruiting office and made a decision that would change her life.

She decided to give back to the country that had given her a chance at a career — by enlisting in the US Navy. “After absorbing the language and culture of this country, I decided to join the military, which changed my life in such a profound way.”

In 2014 Carolina earned a bachelor’s degree in fashion design from the Art Institute of California-SD, and established her own brand, Veteran Couture, the next year. As the name implies, her military service impacted her life experience and perspective and in turn, influenced her artistically.

Her goal is to grow her business and teach others how to do the same. To this end, she volunteered with The Bob Margett Foundation through The Mission Continues, which gave her coaching and support.

Throughout her life and career, it is apparent that she’s conquered many difficult things. But the key to her success is, as she said, “Instead of seeing challenges, I see opportunities.”

Read the full article about veteran and immigrant fashion designer by Abigail Pope-Brooks at Mission Continues