WE Magazine: WE GIRL

An accidental model, natural, exotic beauty Maria Vaz sort of fell into that line of work after working as a make-up artist for a modeling agency only to be asked to sign on with them as a model. This Jamaican beauty whose features will have anyone wondering what her ethnicity is credits not only her looks but her character for her success in the modeling business. She says she's very down to earth and knows exactly when to turn on her magnetic personality to land her the job.

A little over a year ago, Morena Entertainment's CEO, Yami Johnson told Maria that she was too beautiful to be a makeup artist and not be noticed behind the scenes so she offered her a modeling contract with her company. Maria was interested and excited to know that her dream of working in the entertainment business was about to become a reality but in a different way. Since her first modeling job in Latin group AVENTURA's music video, Maria has been busy doing videos for artists such as Canadian rapper Belly, Nas, Bone Thugz, Gym Class Heroes, Keysha Cole and Nelly. She showed off her catwalk as a model on BET's Rip The Runway, she featured in Fabolous’ album insert and also in fashion spreads and editorials for various urban and fashion magazines. She recently shot her very first commercial for Escada perfume and received a special request from AVENTURA to perform on stage with them at their sold out concert in Madison Square Garden. "I was surprised when my management called me about this request and also to know that they were paying me to do it when it was such a privilege," says Maria. "I can't believe I can actually say that I performed in Madison Square Garden, it can be very intimidating and exciting because not too many models can say that they experienced being on stage at the Garden and having all eyes on them."

Maria feels blessed for everything she has accomplished thus far. She closes 2007 with a cover in I.B. CONCEPT magazine, articles in new issues of The Source and KING magazines and recently shot a commercial for Honey Bunches of Oats cereal. She is also the sexy nurse on the cover of Ghostface Killa's newly released album as well as the lead girl in the music video for his first single. "I have a lot to be thankful for and I know that what I've accomplished so far is a good start to my modeling and acting career," says Maria. We know there is much more to see of Maria because 2007 was just the beginning of her successful career.