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TAMPA — Miss Latina Tampa, a nonprofit, is working to help Latina women, including immigrants, build confidence, leadership skills and community through mentorship, personal development and cultural connection.
For the past 11 years, the organization has focused on more than crowns and sashes. Its leaders say the program helps young women develop public speaking, communication, and leadership skills while creating a sense of belonging.
For Mariana Pino, Miss Latina Tampa’s 2024 ambassador, the mission is personal. “It’s not just about how you look physically. It’s about how you carry yourself,” Pino said.
Pino was born and raised in Cuba and left the country four years ago in search of more opportunities and freedom.
The move meant leaving behind her family and a medical degree she was close to completing. “This picture represents distance, hurt, dreams broken and lives that we can’t share together anymore,” Pino said.
Pino said the distance from her family made it difficult to settle into her new life in the U.S. She said Miss Latina Tampa helped provide support as she adjusted.
“It’s been a support system for me in all aspects, in how I’ve grown as a person, how to find help with immigration, how to be confident in myself,” Pino said.
Founder Rosario Torres said nearly half of the program’s participants are immigrants. She said the program is designed to help women find opportunities for personal growth. “I think that if you give them the opportunities, it’s easier for them to find their purpose and growth without many obstacles,” Torres said.
Torres said the program also creates a community where women with similar experiences can connect and support one another.
Participant Aneleth Montero said she joined the program to build confidence and gain experience. “I want to gain experience, gain confidence, project more, because it’s one of the most important things,” Montero said.
For Pino, helping other women find the same sense of belonging she found through Miss Latina Tampa is a key part of the program. “Because as an immigrant, we dream of being part of the community. We don’t want to be out to the side, and this place has helped me be part of this community,” Pino said.
This year’s Miss Latina Tampa competition is scheduled for July 4. Organizers say the upcoming event will celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions represented by participants from across the Hispanic community.