25 year-old Valerie Dominguez Tarud of Atlantico is crowned by her cousin Adriana Tarud after winning the Señorita Colombia pageant in Cartagena November 14, 2005. Her court includes Karina Guerra of Chocó (Virreina), Liliana Morales of Bolívar (First Princess), Diana María González of Antioquia (Second Princess) and Ana María Castañeda of Sucre (Third Princess). It was a dynasty for Tarud and a back-to-back victory for Atlantico. Valerie also went on to win the Figura Bodytech, a title awarded to the contestant with the most toned, well-proportioned and healthy body. The last three Señorita Colombianas Diana Lucia Mantilla, Catherine Daza & Adriana Tarud have also won this award.    

Valerie believes that her job is as relevant as to that of a president in her country. "Through my image as a queen, I can help the neediest people and bring about many positive changes for the benefit of my country. I may not be the president but I can also involve myself to social works. My title also gives me the opportunity to know every corner of my country and to be much nearer to my countrymen. As Señorita Colombia, I am going to fill the hearts of Colombians with happiness, as I believe that I have a lot to offer them." The winners of Miss Colombia pageant are being considered more than just mere national heroes. They also serve as role models for young women all over the nation, from the poorest to the richest. Starting at the local barrio level, a 'reina' enjoys a lot of respect, fame, and a great deal of publicity.