Patricia Velasquez

Patricia Velásquez is an award-winning actress, activist, and author. She serves as the Organization of American States (OAS) Goodwill Ambassador for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples of the Americas. In 2002, she founded the Wayúu Tayá Foundation to help improve the lives of Latin-American indigenous communities, while maintaining and respecting their traditions, culture, and beliefs. In 2003, she was appointed a UNESCO Artist for Peace, and she is a Member of the Leadership Council of The Global Alliance for a Sustainable Planet.

Born in Venezuela but raised in France and Mexico, Velásquez embarked on a career in modeling that swiftly gained international acclaim. Her exotic beauty and charisma led her to walk the runways for top designers and grace the covers of prestigious fashion magazines, such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar and Marie Claire, establishing her as a prominent figure in the fashion world during the 1990s. In her autobiography, “Straight Walk: A Supermodel’s Journey to Finding her Truth,” Velásquez recalls her triumphant journey from poverty to international acclaim.

Transitioning from modeling to acting, Velásquez achieved widespread recognition for her portrayal of Anck-Su-Namun in the hit films "The Mummy" and its sequel, "The Mummy Returns." Her acting repertoire extends beyond these iconic films, including diverse roles in both television and cinema that highlight her range and depth as an actress. Her latest, "Maya," a film about human trafficking premiered in 2023; she will appear next in "No Address," a film about homelessness.

Velásquez regularly engages in public speaking at events like the Clinton Global Initiative, TED Conference, Human Rights Campaign, Stanford University, and many others.