Meet the International Festival princesses: Melina Rosas, Puerto Rican princess

Melina Rosas, 18, Puerto Rican princess (Photo by Tom Mahl, The Chronicle-Telegram)

Name: Melina Rosas

Nationality: Puerto Rican

Listen to Melina introduce herself. (Audio courtesy of WEOL.)

Age: 18

Sponsor: Puerto Rican Culture Committee

Parents: Maria and Amador Rosas

High School: Lorain Southview High School

Future Plans: To attend Cleveland State University and pursue a degree in nursing with a minor in Spanish.

Costume: “My Costume is a folkloric dress. The women usually wear flowers in their hair, loose colorful blouses and skirts used especially for dancing. The Taino Indians, the Spaniards and the black slaves all contributed to the folkloric heritage of Puerto Rico. The native costume shows the influences of different cultures.”

Roots: “My mother was born in Barraquintas, Puerto Rico, and came here when my grandfather was looking for a better opportunity. My deceased father was born here in Lorain. While his parents, my grandparents, came from Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.”

Favorite ethnic food: white rice with beans and fried pork chops

Favorite musician: Camila

Favorite movie: “Enough”

A message from Melina: “It makes me really proud to be representing my nationality. As I am showing others about my culture, and I’m also learning along the way. I have visited Puerto Rico many times, from going to its beautiful beaches to the exotic rainforest. I am very proud to be Puerto Rican.”