Burnsville Woman to Compete in Miss Minnesota Latina Pageant at Performing Arts Center

Burnsville model/dentist Vanessa Berrueta will be the hometown favorite Saturday evening as she competes for the title of 2013 Miss Minnesota Latina at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.

Berrueta 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.

Berrueta, 27, was born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, and went to college for dentistry.

The last year of her career she worked to help less privileged communities and also collaborated on research projects for support of Venezuelan ethnic groups. However, this did not turn her away from her passion for the runway. As a professional model, she has had the opportunity to work in different bridal shows and fashion shows for brands such as L'Oreal. Vanessa participated in the Miss Zulia / Miss Venezuela competition where she got the titles for Miss Punctuality and Miss Personality. Her hobbies include traveling, riding and reading.

The 2013 Miss Teen Minnesota Latina will also be selected on Saturday. Tickets cost between $20 and $35 for the 7 p.m. May 25 show.