If your image of a typical Latina -- no thanks to telenovelas -- is that of a light-skinned, blonde-haired beauty with a surgically enhanced chest, then María Pérez-Brown would like you to take a look at 'Model Latina,' a reality television show featuring 20 Latinas.

The Sí TV program debuts Sunday (July 27) at 9 p.m.

"We wanted a twist on the modeling idea in that we didn't want to be the typical thing where we judge the girls on their beauty," said Pérez-Brown, programming director for the cable network that targets the U.S. Latino market. "We wanted a Latina concept where the girls have to be more than just beautiful, where they can express themselves, and representing of their culture outside the show."

The contestants -- who represent Mexican, Cuban, Puerto Rican, Colombian, and Honduran heritages -- are vying for a $10,000 prize, a modeling contract, a chance to grace the pages of Latina Magazine, and clothing from the Anna Fong Collection.

"As Latinas, we understand that we come in all sizes and shades," said Pérez-Brown. "That Latinas have a wide range of colors, have a variety of looks and hair textures, and body sizes. Beauty comes in so many different packages."

The contestants include:

Yuria Espinoza, who drove five hours from Antioch to make the Los Ángeles auditions. She hopes to break into acting.

Victoria Ortiz, a native of México City and aspiring singer who lost 60 pounds about five years ago to improve her chances as an actress.

Mishell Livio, a self-described tomboy who performed alongside her father's mariachi, Mariachi América, as a young singer and violinist.

During a telephone interview last week, the three contestants demonstrated they share certain Mexican characteristics but are proud of their own individuality.

Espinoza wants to do everything, from acting to modeling.

"I consider acting and modeling almost the same thing," said Espinoza, who left college because working and studying at the same time did not leave her time to attend casting calls. "You're trying to sell a product. I want to try everything. I want to do it all."

Espinoza considered her time in 'Model Latina' (the programming has been taped, but producers are tight-lipped about the outcome) a valuable one, even the judges' criticism.

"I'm a sensitive person, but when it comes to this, I can take criticism," said Espinoza. "I want to hear the truth so that I can work on improving my walk or whatever."

Espinoza also made a lot of new friends. She talks weekly with a fellow competitor, and lists about four more with whom she remains in contact.

She also loves the fact that Latinas are so different.

"Latina women are beautiful," said Espinoza. "I always embrace my culture. One thing about being Latina is that you can also pull off very different looks. For example, a Cuban can look like a Dominican, or a Puerto Rican can look like a Salvadoran."

Ortiz moved to New York City three years ago to pursue a modeling career. So far, she is happy.

"I'm interested in the entertainment industry as a whole," said Ortiz, who was the opening act at a México City concert featuring Nina Sky and Daddy Yankee.

In New York, she has appeared as a featured model in a music video. She has also developed an understanding of the modeling business.

"You need to listen to the advice other people give you, and believe in yourself," said Ortiz, who developed a reputation as "the bitch" in 'Model Latina.'

Ortiz laughs about that label.

"I think I'm just outspoken, and some people will take it the wrong way," she said. "I'll say what I'm thinking and not be afraid. As long as you are respectful to everybody, you can agree to disagree."

Livio, who practiced karate alongside her father, a 9th-degree black belt, recently moved from Tucson to California to try to break into the acting business. She heard about the 'Model Latina' audition but didn't think much about it until the second time she saw an ad.

"I didn't really expect to get through the audition," said Livio, who said the judges were blunt with their assessments. "I accepted it. Some of the girls were like really hurt by what the judges said to them. You just have to have a thick skin and be prepared."

Livio's definition of a model has also changed. Previouly, she thought they were "tall, thin girls."

"It's harder than it looks," said Livio. "You have to be really smart and savvy because modeling is so brutal and so hard. I have a lot more respect for models now than I probably did before."

Pérez-Brown, the Sí TV executive, said plans are in the works for 'Model Latina II,' and possibly a similar reality show for Latino models.