Richfield Woman to Compete in Miss Minnesota Latina Pageant

Paulina Perez of Richfield will compete Saturday evening as she for the title of 2013 Miss Minnesota Latina at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.

Perez is one of six finalists between the ages of 19 and 27 who, according to the organization's website, "desire to travel and advance in the world of pageants and the modeling industry, while proudly promoting their Latino heritage." The winner will receive cash, prizes and a chance at the "Miss Latina US" title.

Perez, 26, is "confident and motivated," according to the competition website:

Born in Chile, she has lived in Minnesota since 1999. Currently, Paulina works as an administrator at Calvo Salsa Lisa, and plans to one day own a restaurant. Until then, she is pursuing a Psychology degree at Augsburg College. In addition, she is an avid tennis player and has even earned the All State Tennis Player Award. Also, she enjoys playing soccer and going shopping. In her spare time, Paulina enjoys watching soap operas, TV and music award shows, and following her favorite teams on the sports channels. Michelle Bachelet, the first woman President of Chile is someone Paulina greatly admires for how she truly represents the Chilean women. Paulina’s inner strength and resilience demonstrate that she knows what it takes to give her all and achieve her goals.

The 2013 Miss Teen Minnesota Latina (with another Richfield entrant, Janet Ponce) will also be selected on Saturday. Tickets cost between $20 and $35 for the 7 p.m. May 25 event.