The life of Winsome Sears is one of courage and determination. She became the first woman and first woman of color elected to a state office in the Commonwealth of Virginia, United States of America. Winsome Sears was born in Jamaica and arrived in New York when she was only six years old. She followed the exemplary path her immigrant father had laid for her, getting an education, joining the U.S. Marines, becoming active in her community and a business owner, as well as wife and mother. She overcame trials and tribulations because of her indomitable spirit to live the American dream. Her life story encourages children of African American parents and immigrants to take advantage of the opportunities for growth and development available in the United States.