Sometimes, beautiful things emerge from tragic events.
This is especially true for Filipino nursing professor Michael Sta. Maria. He has the ultimate when life throws you lemons make lemonade kind of story.
Michael was a high-achieving student, both in high school and in college. He was recognized as an honor student and academic scholar and graduated Cum Laude from Far Eastern University with a degree in nursing. He went on to ace the Philippine Nursing Licensure Exam in 2007 and Philippine Midwifery Licensure Exam in 2008. He became part of the Nursing Academe, is a National Reviewer for the Boards and the author of the nursing review book, Nursing Alert.
Then in one instant, his life dramatically changed. Michael was in a horrible car accident that nearly took his life. The accident left him bed ridden for almost a year and a half.
But from tragedy arose something beautiful.
Michael spent his long convalescence creatively, concentrating on his passion for fashion design. It was during that painful year of recovery that he gained the insight and humility that would ultimately launch his fashion career.
His first international collection called, Prelude was featured during Los Angeles Fashion Week. With each runway model gracing the stage, the collection told his near-death story in a dramatic artistic fashion. Each piece was perfectly designed and styled to tell the story of his ability to overcome and survive.
His new passion has lead him to runways in Malaysia for The Mercedes-Benz Stylo Asia Fashion Week held in Kuala Lumpur and to the United Kingdom for the Scotland Fashion Showcase.
He’s even had the honor of designing for celebrities including Miss World Philippines 2014.
Michael’s style is diverse; encompassing bridal, luxe wear, red carpet, evening and debut. You’ll find everything from goth to gala, but the clothing is always intriguing, exquisite and meticulously crafted.
For more designs by Michael Sta. Maria, visit him online at www.michaelstamaria.com.
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Lisa N. Alexander is the author and founder of This Woman Knows and What Million-Dollar Brands Know. She is an award-winning filmmaker, director, producer, and writer and is the owner of PrettyWork Creative.
