Dayana Mendoza Miss Universe 2008

Dayana Mendoza won the title of Miss Venezuela in 2007 and most recently the title of Miss Universe in 2008. She was born in Caracas, Venezuela and is a model. She speaks Spanish, English and Italian.

Dayana Mendoza was discovered at the age of 13 at a local bus stop. Since then, she has gained vast experience in catalogue modeling and has worked with prestigious companies like Max Mara and Costume Nacional. Modeling has allowed Dayana to travel the world, visiting places like New York, Italy, Germany, France, Athens and Spain.

Although Dayana had a successful modeling career, her lifelong ambition is to become either an interior designer or work in the field of advertising. About a year ago, she began taking classes on interior design to help refine her skills. Whenever she enters a room, she can not contain her sudden urge to start rearranging furniture and suggesting color palettes.

For winning the title of Miss universe, Mendoza will get to keep her tiara, worth $120,000, she'll receive cash, a year contract promoting Miss Universe, world travel, a rent-free New York City apartment, a gift bag with designer shoes, dresses and beauty products and a $100,000 stipend for a 2-year course at the New York Fil Academy.