Carmen Martinez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Carmen, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My first 90 minutes of my day, I dedicate it to praying and being grateful, and basically ask jesus to guide me throughout the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Carmen Martinez and I am a mental health advocate, fashion and commercial model and the founder of Fashion Fitness Swim Events. Fashion Fitness Swim (FFS) is more than a runway show. It is a year-round cultural and wellness campaign built around the visibility, health, and healing of men especially within our Black, Brown communities. I launched it as a tribute to the life of my best friend that lost her battle to suicide. The event has now become a living platform that tells real stories through style, conversation, and movement. Each summer, we close our season with a powerful fashion experience highlighting local designers, diverse models, and community leaders
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
The earliest memory I have of feeling powerful was probably in my teens. I was always a quite person but spoke up to things and subjects that matter to me. Strength in your voice and believing in it has lead me to speak up on things throughout my life and stand up not only for myself but be an aid to others.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I think once I lost someone to suicide, that moment made a transition in my life. I started speaking and sharing my story to simply let others know that you do not have to struggle in silence. I realized years after my friend’s passing that education is the key to simply aid someone in need. To feel supported and not feel judged.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
The cultural value thatI protect at al cost is respect for elders, the importance of family unity, and the importance of community. There is so much that we can learn from our elders, and I feel that the generations that do not value that are missing out on so much knowledge that can help you make wise choices. I think we live in such a fast world that we dont stop and take time. Time for yourself, time for family and time to just rest. I thrive on the power of community and as jumans we have to understand the importance of being supported and loved in all aspects even the small wins.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
I think one thing I would regret not doing is just “trying” a project, hobby or an idea. Sometimes we are in the fear of “not trying: for the fear of failing. I like to leap into things and hope for the best. A bit of risk taker sometimes, but it pays off.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fashionfitnessswim.com/
- Instagram: Fashionfitnessswim
Image Credits
Tommy Chung Photography
Torry Sledge Photography
