Yalitza Aparicio: The Mexican Actress Who Broke Barriers

Yalitza Aparicio, the Mexican actress who never attended acting school or dreamed of Hollywood, changed the history of Mexican cinema with a single film.

With her calm gaze, soft voice, and deep roots, she taught the world that you can achieve greatness simply by being yourself.

🎬 From a Preschool Teacher in Tlaxiaco to the Red Carpet

Yalitza Aparicio was born on December 11, 1993, in Tlaxiaco, Oaxaca — a town surrounded by mountains, tradition, and a strong sense of community.

Before becoming famous, she worked as a preschool teacher. Acting wasn’t part of her plans — she only went to accompany her sister to a casting… and unexpectedly ended up starring in one of the most important films in Mexican cinema history.

How Did Yalitza Aparicio Get to ROMA?

She was handpicked by director Alfonso Cuarón to play Cleo, a domestic worker inspired by the woman who cared for him during his childhood.

Yalitza had never acted before. She didn’t know how to swim — she learned for one of the film’s scenes.

She didn’t speak Mixtec either — and she learned that too.

What she did have was what no school could teach: truth, sensitivity, and an undeniable presence.

🌎 Making History Without Trying To

Thanks to her unforgettable role in ROMA (2018), Yalitza Aparicio was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress — becoming the first Indigenous woman and only the second Mexican actress in history to receive this nomination.

She was also:

• Nominated for the BAFTA, Critics’ Choice, and Ariel Awards.
• Featured on the covers of Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The New York Times.
• Named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.

And all of it happened without a marketing campaign or controversy — just through her authenticity.

What Does Her Work Represent?

Beyond cinema, Yalitza Aparicio has become a powerful voice for women who are often invisible in Mexican society.

Her advocacy centers on:

• Fighting racism and discrimination in media.
• Defending the rights of Indigenous women.
• Supporting fair labor conditions for domestic workers.
• Promoting pride in Indigenous languages.
• Encouraging self-acceptance and cultural diversity.

She uses her platform with purpose — and that’s what makes her truly exceptional.

More Than an Actress — A Voice for Change

After ROMA, Yalitza Aparicio chose not to pursue fame for its own sake. She’s said she only wants to participate in projects that reflect her values and contribute to meaningful causes.

She has since become:

• A UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
• An advocate for UN Women.
• A speaker at institutions such as Harvard and Stanford.

Rather than chasing the spotlight, she shines it on others.

Fun Facts About Yalitza Aparicio

• Before ROMA, she had never been inside a movie theater.
• Her performance was so authentic that many people thought she was Cleo in real life.
• She’s a fan of coffee with sweet bread, a comfort from her hometown.
• She learned Mixtec specifically for the role — and now promotes the preservation of Indigenous languages.
• She doesn’t have a Hollywood agent; she decides her own path.

🎬 What Has She Done After ROMA?

Yalitza Aparicio continues to support films and projects that highlight women, Indigenous communities, and social issues.

She has:

• Participated in independent short films and documentaries.
• Collaborated with Dior, Cartier, and other international brands.
• Supported foundations that promote education for young girls.

She’s not interested in appearing everywhere — she’s interested in making every appearance count.

✨ You May Also Like:

• Guillermo González :The Mexican Inventor Who Created Color TV
• Salma Hayek: Career, Movies, and Legacy of the Mexican Actress in Hollywood.
• Carlos Santana: The Mexican Musician Who Changed Rock Forever

Mexican Pride — Just Like You

Just as Yalitza Aparicio, the Mexican actress who carries her roots to the world with pride, represents our identity through art and authenticity —

At Mall Gran México Export, we celebrate every creation made with soul, history, and love.

From handcrafted pieces to fashion and design, every product tells the story of who we are and what we’re made of.

Discover more inspiring stories here: https://mallgranmexicoexport.com/blog?lang=en