Alejandra Silva

Name: Alejandra Silva

Nationality: Mexican

Age: 18

Parents: Stacey Trottier and Joaquin Silva

Sponsor: Mexican Mutual Club

High school: Firelands High

School

I plan on attending Lorain County Community College, then transferring to Kent State University to study nursing. Helping people has always been a passion for me, and I am so excited to begin my journey.

Costume: I am wearing a traditional fiesta dress. The shirt is a white peasant top with traditional Mexican colors and adorned with lace at the top and bottom of the ruffle. The traditional skirt has lace and the Mexican colors throughout the skirt. I am also wearing a red rose in my hair. The rose plays a significant part of Mexican culture because of the role it plays in the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Roots: My family originates from Jalisco and Aguas Caliente, Mexico. Jalisco is known for its Mariachis and Aguas Caliente is known for its rich architecture and abundance of hot springs. I am proud of my Mexican heritage, and one day, hope to visit the places where my ancestors originated and learn more about where I came from.

Favorite native dishes: My Abuela’s tamales, rice and beans and Mexican sweet breads.

I am so proud to be a part of such a positive community of girls. It has been so exciting celebrating our different cultures together and learning about each other’s heritages. I have attended the International Festival every year since I was a little girl, and I am so excited to be a part of it this year and represent my nationality.