Woman of the Month: Maria escamilla

This month, we proudly celebrate Maria Victoria Escamilla, known to many as Tori, for her remarkable dedication and leadership both in and out of uniform. With 16 years of service in the United States Navy, Tori has committed her life to serving others, now focusing her talents on recruiting the next generation of sailors who will follow in her footsteps.

Beyond her military career, Tori wears many hats that showcase her passion for community and storytelling. She serves as the Community Manager for Female Executives of Texas and is a senior member and staff writer for Combat 22, a veterans’ mental health organization. Through her writing for their magazine, Veteran SA, she amplifies the voices and experiences of those who have served.

Tori also channels her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into Sew Mestiza, a small business specializing in embroidery and apparel printing that honors her cultural roots. Her academic achievements, including bachelor’s degrees in Multidisciplinary Studies from UT El Paso and Psychology from Our Lady of the Lake University, reflect her commitment to continuous growth.

Her journey has not been without challenges. Tori openly shares how she has sometimes gotten in her own way by struggling with patience, hyper-independence, and the difficulty of allowing others to support her. These reflections add depth to her story and highlight the importance of self-awareness and personal growth.

Tori’s favorite quote, “You can have everything, just not all at once,” speaks to her balanced approach to life and leadership. Her advice to women aspiring to succeed is rooted in self-love and boundaries: knowing your worth, setting clear limits, and discerning the people around you are key elements to thriving both personally and professionally.

Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, Tori’s journey began when she joined the Navy at age 22. Her time in service broadened her horizons, exposed her to diverse cultures, and deepened her appreciation for global perspectives. In 2020, she embarked on a new chapter as a podcast host focused on the Chicano community, creating a platform for inspiring stories and meaningful conversations.

Tori’s commitment extends into active volunteerism with veterans’ organizations, youth mentorship programs, and initiatives promoting equality and inclusivity. Her dedication to service, leadership, and storytelling inspires those around her to engage, uplift, and create positive change.

We honor Maria Victoria Escamilla for her resilience, passion, and the powerful example she sets for women everywhere. Her story reminds us all that leadership is not just a title but a lifelong commitment to serve and uplift others.

To learn more about Maria Escamilla's work, connect with her and the Sew Mestiza brand:

Instagram: @sew_mestiza

Instagram: @recruitingsatx_navy