In the heart of New Mexico, where the desert meets the mountains, a young girl dared to dream big. That dream? Strutting down the iconic catwalks of New York Fashion Week. For Brooke Freilino, this wasn’t just a fantasy—it became her reality at the age of 17. Hailing from the small town of Las Cruces, Brooke’s remarkable journey from a high school senior to a runway sensation in one of the world’s most prestigious fashion events is a story of ambition, perseverance, and taking bold leaps of faith.
From Kitchen Catwalks to the Big Stage
Whether it was parading in her kitchen or gracing the runways of New York City, Brooke Freilino always knew how to put on a show. Her poise and natural flair for fashion didn’t go unnoticed. At NYFW, she had the honor of showcasing designs from some of the top designers, including one who crafts costumes for Miss USA contestants.
Despite her undeniable success, it’s astonishing to learn that Brooke had only been in the modeling industry for about a year. Her journey began spontaneously when, at 16, she entered her first beauty pageant, Miss New Mexico Teen USA, and placed in the top five. This achievement caught the eye of several high-profile designers, and before she knew it, Brooke was on her way to New York, living a dream that many aspiring models only hope for.
Before long, Brooke found herself stepping onto one of the most sought-after stages in the fashion world: New York Fashion Week. “It was surreal,” she recalls. “One minute I’m walking the stage at a pageant, and the next, I’m in New York being fitted for designer pieces.” For someone who had only been in the industry for a year, this rapid ascent into the high-fashion spotlight was nothing short of extraordinary.
A Proud Moment for the Freilino Family
For Brooke’s family, witnessing her success was a deeply emotional experience. Her mother, Laurie Freilino, vividly remembers the excitement and disbelief that came with seeing her daughter on one of the world’s most prestigious runways. “It’s like, am I really sitting here, and is she actually walking on a runway? Photographers are everywhere, and it’s just unbelievable. I’m so proud of her,” Laurie said, her voice full of pride.
One of the most defining moments for Brooke came not just on the runway, but high above it—literally. “I woke up one morning to a text from a designer who told me that I was on a billboard in Times Square. I couldn’t believe it,” Brooke shares. “I ran to my parents, and seeing myself on that screen was just mind-blowing. It was a dream come true.”
Brooke’s Star Continues to Rise
Brooke’s success in New York didn’t stop at one runway appearance. Her performance turned heads and led to invitations to walk in other global fashion capitals. Brooke is now set to walk in Milan, London, and New York Fashion Week again this fall, expanding her modeling portfolio and cementing her status as a rising star in the fashion industry.
Despite the rapid success, Brooke remains grounded. She’s quick to remind people that her journey is still in its early stages, and she’s determined to make the most of every opportunity. “It all happened so fast, but I’m grateful for every moment. There’s so much more I want to do,” she said.
Balancing Dreams: Modeling and Public Health
Though Brooke is living out her modeling dreams, she has always kept her feet firmly on the ground. Modeling may be a huge part of her life, but it’s not her only passion. With a deep interest in healthcare, Brooke is currently a sophomore at New Mexico State University (NMSU), pursuing a degree in public health. “I love modeling, and I plan to keep doing it, but public health is something I’ve always wanted to pursue,” she shares.
This dedication to both her creative and academic goals showcases Brooke’s well-rounded approach to life. She’s not only walking in the world’s fashion capitals, but she’s also set on building a future in public health—a balance that few can achieve at such a young age.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Dreamers
At 19, Brooke Freilino is not only living her dream but also inspiring others to chase theirs. “You really just have to go for it, no matter what people tell you,” she advises aspiring models and dreamers. Her own journey—from a small-town high school senior to gracing the runways of New York—proves that with determination, anything is possible.
Brooke’s story is one of fearlessness and ambition. She didn’t wait for opportunities to find her; she seized them, transforming her life in ways she never imagined. And as she continues to walk in the world’s most prestigious fashion shows, Brooke’s message remains clear: dream big, work hard, and always believe in yourself.
The Future Looks Bright
Now a seasoned runway model with shows lined up across the globe, Brooke Freilino’s future in fashion is nothing short of exciting. Her success has already taken her from Las Cruces to Times Square and beyond, and she’s just getting started. Whether she’s wearing designer gowns on the runway or pursuing her public health degree, Brooke is determined to leave her mark.
As she continues to strut down catwalks and inspire a new generation of dreamers, Brooke remains a shining example of what can happen when you blend ambition, passion, and perseverance. The world may be watching her walk the runway now, but Brooke Freilino is just beginning to take her first steps into a future that’s as dazzling as the spotlight that follows her.
