Divina's Story: The Confidence to Keep Moving Forward
"My daughter was able to witness me transform into the new year with preparation that when I got the call to officially start my job, I was going to be ready.
That gave comfort to my daughter to see me, her Mom, continue to stay strong for myself and her." - Divina
When Divina was introduced to Dress for Success in December 2023, she did not have a full-time job. She had been searching for stable employment after leaving a toxic relationship with her daughter, navigating a divorce, and fighting for sole custody.
As a single mother raising her six-year-old daughter in San Francisco, she was facing significant personal, legal, and financial challenges.
"I was really in a place in my life where I needed to surround myself with positive women to help me feel that I can make it on my own while raising a child," she said.
Her first experience with Dress for Success was through the Career Wardrobe program. At the time, she had been hired for a full-time position and was preparing to begin work, although she did not yet know her official start date. She wanted to be ready when the call came.
Through Career Wardrobe, Divina was able to select career clothing and accessories. She described feeling grateful for the opportunity, particularly because she did not have extra money to spend on herself before Christmas while preparing for a new job.
Beyond the clothing itself, the experience helped restore her confidence.
"One of the things that really helped me at the time was building my confidence and having hope that I can get past all the personal and legal problems I was going through and needed to survive with my daughter."
With a new job, workplace attire, and access to resources she felt other organizations could not provide, Divina saw a path forward. She was determined to continue supporting her daughter by paying for school tuition, supplies, food, clothing, and other necessities. She described feeling one step closer to achieving her goals.
"My daughter was able to witness me transform into the new year with preparation that when I got the call to officially start my job, I was going to be ready. That gave comfort to my daughter to see me, her Mom, continue to stay strong for myself and her."
Today, Divina works for the U.S. Department of the Treasury. She credits multiple Dress for Success programs with contributing to her growth and success.
"The value of my experience so far with Dress for Success is priceless and I am forever grateful to how the interactions with the Dress for Success staff has made me feel."
Since joining Dress for Success, Divina has seen significant personal growth.
"I am amazed on the development of how I have become as a person, where connection and community is a lot stronger in my life."
For Divina, Dress for Success provided more than career clothing. It offered community, confidence, coaching, financial education, and support during one of the most difficult periods of her life.
"Thank you, Dress for Success, for being there for my family unit of two."
Dress for Success San Francisco and San Jose is a leading resource for advancing women in the workplace. Our purpose is to empower women to achieve economic mobility by providing a network of support, workplace attire, and development tools for success.