Patricia Velásquez

Creativity goes beyond films, canvas and photos. It also serves as an inspiration to philanthropy, charity, or activism. Award-winning actress, history-making supermodel, a fervent philanthropist, a conscientious activist writer, author, and loved mom Patricia Velasquez applies an eternal creativity to everything she does-whether it be starring in blockbuster films like The Curse of La Llorona or launching the Wayuu Taya Foundation and participating in the UNESCO Board. Whatever the case, she takes huge leaps by drawing from her intuition and carefully paving her personal path. She states, "I see my career as a ladder." "I did every step to the top. It was quite amazing to accomplish this, as there is a sense of determination. Simply put my head down and took one step at a time. Then, it was over. This analogy is reminiscent of an early experience. She was born in Venezuela however, she was raised in France or Mexico. After a few years she decided to relocate to Venezuela. In South America, her parents worked in education before moving the family into an crowded apartment without water and inoperable elevators. Patricia often carried buckets of water for 15 steps to provide water. Between her studies in engineering as well as dance training, she tried to help the family in any way she could. Her promise to her family members, which was the main reason she made it to the top in the fashion industry, led to her being scouted for modeling in Milan. She recalled, "When they asked me whether I wanted to travel to Italy, my answer was"If you could send thirty dollars a month back home to Venezuela, it will be worth it since that will cover the entire building's water costs'." Patricia's success was a turning point for fashion when she first brought the attention of the fashion industry to South America. The "first model Karl Lagerfeld photographed" was an incredible breakthrough. The model went on to be featured in shows and front editorial spreads and even in advertisements for Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Fendi. Her appearances on Oprah's Supermodel of the World contest as well as Ford Models’ "Supermodel of the World” contest resonated around the world. She also graced the covers of Vogue, Bazaar, Marie Claire and a host of other magazines.