Ruth Ocumarez

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Ruth Ocumarez

Ruth Ocumarez (born Ruth Ocumárez Apataño circa 1978 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic) is a former beauty queen, actress and model.

Born and raised in the capital city, Ruth became a celebrity in her nation by becoming the first woman of predominantly African heritage to represent the Dominican Republic in the widely popular Miss Universe pageant. While her previous predecessors were mainly of European or mixed heritage, Ruth became a popular figure in her country, and later in the pageant circuit. Due to her dark complexion and exuberant charm, she was given the nickname la diosa de ébano (the Ebony Goddess) by the Dominican public and press.

At the 2002 Miss Universe pageant held in Puerto Rico, Ruth was considered by many to be chosen as one of the semifinalists in that event. Due to her personality, charm, and excellent interviewing, many pageant enthuasist felt that the Dominican Republic had an opportunity in winning its first title in this international event. However, for unknown reasons, she was not selected causing many internet users and bloggers to coin the term the Ruth Ocumarez Award. The term is used to classify a pageant contestant who seems guaranteed to be selected as a finalist, but doesn't make the list at the end. [1]

While she did not win the pageant, it would be another year before the Dominican Republic would win its first title in the pageant when Amelia Vega walked off with the honor in Panama City. After her reign was over, Ruth entered the world of modeling where she appeared in many Dominican, European, and Puerto Rican periodicals. She also branched out into acting, starring in the Dominican film Perico Ripiao. She will soon be seen in the film Juego de Hombres ( the Game of Men), which is presently in production (as of July 2006). Besides her work in film, Ocumarez also has experience as a television hostess on Puerto Rican television.