Life & Work with Yasin Cuevas of Cleveland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yasin Cuevas

Hi Yasin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2005, Yasin Cuevas moved to Ohio and quickly noticed the limited opportunities available for Latinas in the modeling industry. Driven by a desire to create change, she launched the “Modelo de Nuestros Sueños” program, with support from Letitia Lopez, who welcomed her as a volunteer at the Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center. What began as a small initiative soon gained momentum, and after the first year, it became part of the Miss Puerto Rico Image Pageant, which sought to crown the queen of the Puerto Rican Parade.

As the program evolved, Yasin recognized the need for changes to better serve the growing Latino community. This led to a significant transformation: the program shifted away from the traditional pageant format and became the “Miss Latina Image,” now known as the Latina Image Leadership Program. The program is dedicated to building leaders by inspiring and educating young Latina women, ages 13 to 17, to reach their full potential through the power of sisterhood. Over the course of six months, the girls engage in various workshops and activities designed to have a lasting impact on their lives. Their final night is a celebration of their dedication, organization, and responsibility, highlighting the growth and skills they have developed throughout the program.

Yasin’s journey has been one of hard work and dedication, made possible by the ongoing partnership with the Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center. Over the years, the Latina Image Leadership Program has impacted over 200 young Latinas in the community, all on a volunteer basis.

In addition to leading this program, Yasin is the CEO of Project Model Institute, where she empowers women in the modeling industry. She also collaborates with Rian Valentine through Empowerment Pageant Coaching, a business dedicated to preparing women for various aspects of the pageant world, helping them achieve their best in both competitions and personal goals.

Recently, Yasin was appointed as the President of Teen Universe, a national competition for young women across the United States. The winners of this competition will advance to an international level, providing even more opportunities for young girls nationwide.

Through these initiatives, Yasin Cuevas is committed to creating opportunities for young and women across the United States. Her journey has been fueled by passion, resilience, and the desire to uplift others. By continuing to empower the next generation of leaders, she hopes to inspire young women to break barriers, pursue their dreams, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the challenges Yasin and her team have faced is the misconception that the program is solely a pageant, with some people not fully understanding the depth and value of what it offers to the community. In reality, the Latina Image Leadership Program goes beyond the traditional scope of pageants. Participants undergo an intense six-month course designed to empower them with a wide range of skills and knowledge. They learn to amplify their Student Voice, explore Art Expression, and master Interview Skills. The program also covers Social Etiquette, Civic Engagement, Positive Self-Image, and Personal Development. In addition, participants are guided in Academic Responsibility, Social Media Responsibility, and Social-Emotional Development. The course also includes elements of Diction, Dance, Modeling, and Photo-pose, ensuring that each young woman leaves with a well-rounded set of skills that will serve her for a lifetime. By the end of the program, these young leaders are not just prepared to succeed—they are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As the Director of the Latina Image Leadership Program, Yasin Cuevas has been pivotal in creating and nurturing a program that empowers young Latina women through leadership and personal development. In her role, she oversees the curriculum and execution of the program, ensuring it effectively inspires and educates participants to reach their full potential.

In addition to her work with the program, Yasin serves as a runway coach, providing comprehensive support to women involved in pageants and competitions. She focuses on addressing all their needs, from runway training to personal development, helping them build self-confidence and excel in their endeavors. Yasin’s guidance ensures that each participant is well-prepared to navigate the world of pageantry with grace and assurance.

Her dedication goes beyond simply preparing participants; Yasin is committed to fostering a strong sense of self and empowering women to embrace their cultural identity while pursuing their goals with determination.

How do you define success?
For Yasin Cuevas, supporting and teaching women is about fostering their growth and transformation. Success goes beyond merely acquiring new skills; it involves developing a strong sense of self, building confidence, and empowering these young women to become leaders in their communities. Success is seen in their ability to use their voices effectively, embrace their cultural identity, and navigate the world with grace and determination. It’s about observing them apply lessons learned—whether in Personal Development, Civic Engagement, or Social Etiquette—to create positive change. Ultimately, success is measured by the lasting impact these young leaders make on their own lives and those around them, demonstrating that they are not just prepared to succeed, but to inspire and lead.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasincuevas/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yasincuevas