April 2019 ~ Issue 43
I am Gabriela Elyssa Montini, a proud Afro-Latina. Both of my parents were born in Panama and came to the United States for more opportunities. Although I was raised in California, I stay close to my Panamanian roots and culture. I stay involved through visiting Panama often, dancing Panama's folkloric and traditional dances, and being the former queen of The House of Panama. I've always loved the spotlight and being the center of attention, so reigning as the queen of The House of Panama was a great experience. This opportunity even helped me with pursuing my modeling career.