Today we’d like to introduce you to Karina Miller.
Hi Karina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m a thrill seeker who is always up for a challenge. I stay busy being a mom, entrepreneur, brand ambassador, and planning meet-ups, hikes, camping trips, and other fun events for others to participate in and have a sense of belonging. My mission as an ambassador is to amplify the voices of small businesses and nonprofits through the development of marketing, strategies, relationship building, community engagement, media and social media representation. In the past, I’ve partnered with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Fathead. Currently, I’m partnering with Grunt Style as an event coordinator. I am the San Antonio Hike Coordinator for Irreverent Warriors, an ambassador for Girls Who Hike Texas, and I’m working with the National Parks Conservation Association to encourage others to get active outdoors and protect our natural resources.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being a Panamanian immigrant and a Navy veteran, I understand the challenges of transitioning from one culture to another. I did not speak English when first moving to the U.S. and struggled communicating with teachers and classmates. By being immersed in Southern Alabama culture, I adapted and I’m proud of how that has influenced who I’ve become.
After realizing college was not the right fit, I enlisted in the Navy and was the only woman in my engineering class. I went on to serve at Assault Unit Four as a Deck Engineer and later as an Oil King on the USS Porter (DDG78). I was diagnosed with PTSD and MST (military sexual trauma) after a suicide attempt while on active duty.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My past fuels me and I strive to help other veterans on their journey to heal. Through planning, goal-setting, staying active and engaged with my community, I’ve been able to re-structure my life. In 2020, I completed a 65 mile bike ride and in 2021 I solo camped, hiked Franklin Mountain, and completed The 52 Hike Challenge. I also went whitewater rafting in Alaska and spent two nights at Camp Muir on Mt. Rainer. On New Year’s Eve, while in Santa Fe Mountains in New Mexico, I found herself caught in a snowstorm and was stranded in my car for 14 hours overnight. I recently hiked with a group of friends to the top of Guadalupe Peak – the highest point of Texas.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I’d have to credit regular therapy, physical activity, self-care, good friends, goal-setting and volunteerism for keeping me positive and focused on the future. Follow Karina’s journey @veteanvoyager on Instagram.
Contact Info:
- Email: Karina@veteranvoyager.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veteranvoyager/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=b8OmlRfnueCcrWaKqw4m9A&utm_source=ishare
Image Credits
Fernando Ortega
