With a career that spans from the glamour of modeling and films to the positive efforts of active charity work, Patricia Velasquez is far from just a pretty face. Embodying all that is beauty and strength of mind, Patricia has a heart of gold, having never forgotten where she came from and always eager to spread messages of encouragement to young Latinas around the world.

Born in Venezuela, Patricia climbed to the top of the fashion world becoming the first Latina Supermodel working on the runway for Chanel, Gucci, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and Carolina Herrera to name a few.

Patricia’s exotic features have graced the covers of countless magazines such as Vogue, Bazaar and Marie Claire, and she has starred in several commercials campaigns including Allure, Pantene and New York & Co.

As an actor, Patricia has worked in countless films and TV shows, including: “Le Jaguar”, “Zapata”, “Mindhunters”, “Fidel”, “Committed”, “CSI: Miami”, “Arrested Development”, “Rescue Me”, “Ed” and “American Family”, but she is most recognized for her role as Ank Su Namun in the films “The Mummy” and “The Mummy Returns”. Patricia just finished shooting “Cenizas Eternas”, where she plays the lead role. Her debut stage in the leading role of School of The Americas, produced by Philip Seymour Hoffman and written by Jose Rivera, for the Public Theater in New York City was critically acclaimed.

Patricia Velasquez is a UNESCO Artist for Peace and an active charity worker. She received the Women Together award at the UN in 2009, and in November 2010 was honored with the Solidarity Award. This last award is part of the Prix de Marie Claire de la Beaute annual awards, one of the most prestigious awards in Spain and Europe. Her Wayuu Tayu Foundation is dedicated to improving the living conditions of Latin American indigenous groups while respecting their culture.

On February 9, 2011 Velasquez launched her hair care collection at HSN, called Taya Beauty.

Because of her talent, beauty and social conscience Patricia has been a guest on Oprah, a frequent judge at the Supermodel of the World contest sponsored by Ford Models and has been featured countless times in the main stream media as a Latina celebrity.

Patricia has spoken to over 30 schools across the country about the importance of her heritage, inner beauty and giving back.