A New Latin American Icon

A new role model for Latino youth has emerged. America Ferrera is not new to the film industry but with the emergence of the t.v. show Ugly Betty last year, she is quickly becoming a new icon for the Latino youth.

Ferrera grew up in LA but described her youth as a departure from the typical Latino childhood. While many children attend quincineras, Ferrera was more familiar with the Bar Mitzvah.

Still considered a child, Ferrera started her career in television and film. First with the Disney movie Gotta Kick it Up and later with the critically acclaimed film Real Women Have Curves. It wasn't until 2006 that Ferrera got the role that would change her life- the lead on Ugly Betty.

To the left is an image of America Ferrera as herself. To the right is an image of America Ferrera as her famed character in Ugly Betty.

Ugly Betty is show that takes place in many nations around the world but originated in Colombia with their hit, "Betty La Fea." Ferrera recently won a Golden Globe for her portrayal of the nerdy, bushy eyebrowed, unattractive, braces wearing teen, Betty Suarez. After winning the award, the House of Representatives awarded Ferrera for being a role model for young Latina women. Additionally, in the past week America Ferrera has been awarded as the Hispanic Woman of the Year by Billboard and The Hollywood Report.

America Ferrera is a positive role model for young girls of Latina descent and other cultures because she is a girl with a variety of talents and a positive outlook on life. She has not gotten into trouble has many other Hollywood actresses and she has almost completed her college education at USC. For a woman as young as America who has accomplished so much, it will be interesting to see what she can do in the future for the Latino community.