Sunburst cadets suit up for life after graduation
Just a few months ago, cadets at Sunburst Youth Academy had only black T-shirts, gray sweats and basketball shorts in their closets. As graduation approaches, it was time to add something a bit more professional.
Class 36 recently visited Working Wardrobes in Santa Ana, where stylists helped each cadet bring to life their vision of an interview-ready outfit.
The experience gave each cadet a chance to show off their unique sense of style while offering a glimpse of how they might dress after Sunburst, where these formerly at-risk high school students lived on campus for six months at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos.
According to Working Wardrobes Director of Client Services Bianca Herrera, the visual, forward-looking aspect of the process plays a key role in their development from cadets to confident young professionals.
“When they go through the process of seeing themselves in a way they hadn't before, you start to see that sort of light and confidence come in,” Herrera said. “The visual is the part that people remember when they look in the mirror. Now they know what's possible.”
Cadet Noah Martinez — who plans to use his gray suit, lavender shirt and floral tie for job interviews and formal occasions — echoed that same sentiment.
“I felt really good and confident about myself, and I knew when I was in the mirror that this was the suit that I wanted to wear," Martinez said.
Having professional stylists on hand was a big help throughout the process. Each volunteer brought an experienced eye for fashion, ensuring clothing and accessories complemented one another. Male cadets selected belts, socks and dress shoes to accompany their suits, while female cadets paired jewelry and purses with their dresses and pantsuits.
“I found a three piece suit, and it felt pretty good,” said Cadet Reginaldo Rodarte. “When you put it on… yeah, I look professional.”
Working Wardrobes provides a wide range of career readiness services across Orange County. With more than 500,000 garments donated each year, the organization works to equip community members with the skills and tools needed to secure employment.
For cadets at Sunburst, that support now leads to graduation.
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