Of Puerto Rican descent, Sonia Manzano was born and raised in New York City. She is proud of her heritage and is committed to the sincere portrayal of Latinos in the media, touching the lives of millions of children and adults. Growing up in the South Bronx in the 1950?s, Sonia realized at a young age that there were no good role models on television for the emerging Latina population, and became determined to change this. Joining the ethnically expanding cast of Sesame Street in the 70?s gave her a chance to achieve this goal. Her character, Maria, has educated young viewers of all cultures about diversity in America, providing a positive portrayal of Hispanics in the media. After ten years as an actress, Sonia began writing scripts for the series, and has shared fourteen Emmy awards to date as part of the Sesame Street writing staff. Currently, Sonia is looking forward to the publication of her first picture book in 2004.

Sonia has been honored by the Association of Hispanic Arts, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, the Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, the National Hispanic Media Coalition (Impact Award) and was twice nominated for an Emmy Award as ?Outstanding Performer in a Children?s Series.? As one of the country?s most visible actresses of Hispanic descent, she is very aware of her influence on children and young adults of all races, and the fact that she represents the Latina community on Sesame Street. Having grown up with Maria, children and adults today view Maria as a role model, someone they can relate to and learn from on television.