Selena

She broke through the barriers of the music industry by performing, singing and designer. Her dual character as the Mexican American star was both traditional and contemporary. She introduced Tejano to the mainstream in an innovative way. She was a rising star whose untimely passing splintered it. And as is common for a gifted, charming young performer dies too soon, many mourned the potential she was yet to achieve. The result is that fans are enthused over the years to dig in their heels even harder working to ensure her successes will not be forgotten. The tragic shooting death of Selena triggered a response in the Latino Community, similar as the reaction to deaths of Elvis Presley or John Lennon. Selena was a wildly popular singer among Latinos in North America. But her music touched both the young and old. Selena may have been hailed by many as the Latina Madonna, but she is still a great role model. Selena's off-stage family values and involvement in AIDS awareness campaigns provide a great example.