Shaylma Salinas
Miss Minnesota Latina 2015
Shaylma Salinas, the newly-crowned Miss Minnesota Latina 2015, is a graduate of Hamline University where she double majored in Biology and Political Science (Public Service). She is now a resident of Owatonna, where she is a Toddler Teacher for Tri-Valley Migrant Head Start.
As a child, Shaylma suffered from asthma attacks which had her frequently in and out of hospitals. As an adult, she realized the impact of the ongoing bills and the cultural and language barriers her parents faced with being recent immigrants. This has driven her to want to obtain a JD in health law which will enable her to create change surrounding medical policy and legal issues, and also conduct pro bono work in under-served communities.
She wants to continue her cause as Miss Minnesota Latina by using her title to address health care concerns in a practical manner and educate communities, while providing them with resources that will aid them as they explore a path to being healthy. Shaylma is now training to prepare for the Miss U.S. Latina competition that will be held in Riviera Maya, Mexico from August 30th to September 6th. Finals & Coronation will be on Saturday, September 5th at the Barcelo Maya Beach Resort.
Grecia Sanchez
Miss Teen Minnesota Latina 2015
Grecia Sanchez, a young woman of Mexican descent and a resident of Apple Valley, captured the 2015 Miss Teen Minnesota Latina crown. She is currently a freshman who aspires to attend Bethel University and obtain a Doctorate in Business as she plans to own a business someday. Her passions include, writing, photography, and sports. She is fluent in English and Spanish, and is also learning French.
During her year, Grecia wants to share her story throughout Minnesota to help other teens realize they are worth standing up for their beliefs and values so they don’t give into peer pressure and bullies. Already an accomplished young lady, Grecia will be the first-ever Miss Teen Minnesota Latina to compete at the National Miss Teen US Latina pageant in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and will be among the youngest contestants vying for the national title.