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Zuleyka RiveraPuerto Rican model and actress, beauty pageant winner
Date of Birth: 03.10.1987
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Beauty Pageant Success
- Miss Universe Triumph
- Post-Miss Universe Reign
- International Travels and Experiences
- Return Home and World Tours
- Post-Pageant Career
Early Life and Beauty Pageant Success
Sulayka Rivera, a renowned model and actress from Puerto Rico, was born in Cayey and raised in Salinas to Jerry Rivera and Carmen Mendoza. She has two brothers. Prior to competing in Miss Puerto Rico, Sulayka triumphed in her hometown beauty pageant and placed second in Miss Teen Puerto Rico.
Miss Universe Triumph
In 2006, at the tender age of nineteen, Rivera emerged victorious at the Miss Universe pageant held in Los Angeles. Her crowning moment made her one of the youngest winners in the competition's history. After showcasing her poise in swimwear, evening gowns, and interviews, she was crowned as the successor to Natalie Glebova of Canada.
Post-Miss Universe Reign
Immediately following the competition, Rivera experienced a brief fainting spell due to the heat and weight of her heavily adorned gown. As the fifth winner from Puerto Rico, her victory solidified the country as the third most successful in the pageant's history, behind the USA and Venezuela. Rivera passed on her crown to Riyo Mori of Japan at the 2007 Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City.
International Travels and Experiences
Sulayka embarked on numerous international travels during her reign. She visited New York City, Japan, Indonesia, and numerous other countries. Notable events included joint photoshoots with Kurara Chibana in San Juan and Tokyo, meetings with Miss Indonesia contestants, and a visit to a spa resort in Indonesia.
Return Home and World Tours
Upon her return to Puerto Rico on September 4, 2006, Rivera was celebrated with a parade and festivities. She subsequently visited her parents in Salinas. As Miss Universe, Sulayka traveled extensively to countries such as the Czech Republic, Italy, Russia, Spain, Turkey, India, and Brazil.
Post-Pageant Career
In 2007, Rivera participated in WrestleMania with Miss USA 2007 Rachel Smith and Miss Teen USA 2007 Katie Blair in support of Donald Trump. She made her acting debut in the telenovela "Dame Chocolate."
