Gina Rodriguez, 30, really made an impression this awards season when she took home the first Golden Globe ever awarded to a CW show for her work on “Jane The Virgin”. She was so well spoken and gracious. She talked about how her parents supported her dreams and said that her award “represents a culture that wants to see themselves as heroes.” We also saw Gina at various events and awards, including the Oscars, Grammys and People’s Choice Awards, which left me wondering where she’s been all along. She’s an up and coming actress, but it all seemed like old hat to her.

In a new interview with People Magazine, Gina talked about the fact that Latinas are underrepresented on television. She said she’s made it her mission to change that.

On not seeing Latina women on television
“Growing up, I had these fierce women in my life who were kicking ass, but I never saw them represented onscreen, the [role models I saw on TV] weren’t ever the color of myself or my siblings. I realized: Changing that is my mission.”

On being told she doesn’t fit the mold
“I always knew I’d have a different journey because I didn’t look like the stereotypical leading lady or the supersexy Latina. But my parents encouraged my sisters and me to have confidence in who we are. So, working in an industry where I am constantly told, ‘You’re not skinny, tall or ethnic enough,’ I’d be like, ‘Maybe I’m not skinny enough for this role, but I do just fine in real life.’ “[My boyfriend is] my partner in crime and super-supportive. I’m writing a book, and I started a production company, and hopefully a family will come – but there’s no rush!”

[From People Premium online]

There’s more in the print edition of People and in their Premium section online, including how Gina got her start in show business and how she ended up at NYU’s School of The Arts. Everything I’ve heard from Gina has been so positive and focused on her goals. I know we’ll see more from her, especially now that she has her own production company. Hopefully she can effect some of the changes she’s talking about. She’s a great example of a young actress who isn’t taking no for an answer.

Venice Family Clinic's 33rd Annual Silver Circle Gala

Photo credit: WENN.com