Hispanic Heritage Month: Four Afro-Latinas Redefining Success in Entertainment, Beauty, and Sports

As Hispanic Heritage Month has officially begun, it gives us an opportunity to highlight and celebrate the contributions of Afro-Latinas. While we have spotlighted a few celebrities of African and Latin American descent, we want to also take a moment to give flowers to those individuals who are silently making waves in their respective careers.

Letisia Ravelo: Crafting Renaissance Magic Behind-The-Scenes

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Letisia Ravelo solidified her credentials as a master hairstylist after earning a spot as on Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour. Ravelo worked behind the scenes, styling the tresses and enhancing the beauty of Queen Bey’s backup dancer. In addition to creating stunning looks that complemented the show, Ravelo also got a chance to style Beyonce’s daughter, Blue Ivy, hair.

Alma Cooper: Breaking Barriers as Miss USA

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Last month, Alma Cooper was crowned Miss USA 2024! Outside of the challenges that come along with securing the title, what made this extra special is that Cooper is the first Afro-Latina to take home the trophy. She won the 73rd pageant in Los Angeles, California. Even though Cooper sparkles on stage, she also has a tougher side, considering the 22-year-old serves as a second lieutenant and Military Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Army.

Angie Palacios: Dancing into the Spotlight

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While the 2024 Super Bowl might not have been a life-changing moment for some, for Angie Palacios, that nationally televised event was a dream come true. In a 15-second clip, Palacios could see salsa dancing with other girls during the Cricket Wireless commercial. This meant over a million people saw Palacios strut her stuff and showcase her skills that she had perfected for many years. Nevertheless, the commercial was one of few that had Afro-Latino representation in the game’s history.

MJ Acosta-Ruiz: Reporting with Excellence

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Last but not least, MJ Acosta-Ruiz has made a name for herself as a leading sports journalist for ESPN. Acosta-Ruiz entered into the world of sports as a cheerleader for the Miami Dolphins NFL team. With over 15 years of experience, Acosta-Ruiz earned a spot as the first Afro-Latina to host at NFL Network. Throughout her career, the journalist has covered a numerous of games, from the Los Angeles Chargers to the Oakland Raiders. This year, Acosta-Ruiz joined ESPN as an anchor for Sportscenter and a sideline reporter for ESPN Deportes’ Monday Night Football.