EPCC nursing student runs for Mr. Universe with inspiring message

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- He's got the looks, and the brains. El Paso Community College nursing student Daniel "Danny" Dominguez is in Panama, competing for Mr. Universe.

"I thought I'd stick to sports. Football, I've been playing since I was a kid.  Modeling - I heard of it, but never expected it.  It's opened a lot of doors in my life," says Dominguez. Looking through his portfolio, his life looks like a dream. But he says it's been hard work to get where he is.

"Sometimes we trip and fall and I just keep going in life. Having this opportunity in a male pageant is a door opening for me, " he says.

Dominguez lost more than 60 pounds, which inspired him to use his platform to promote healthier lifestyles, and support those who are medically vulnerable. He's also a personal trainer. He wants young children to know they can reach for their dreams, just as he is.

One of 46 candidates representing countries across five continents, he says he'll shine a light on El Paso.

"Being able to represent for EP tx and be Mr Universe.  It runs chills down my spine and having support from family...good friends...sponsors pushing me to make it this far.  I'm very grateful I started here in El Paso to carry on in my life and show the younger folks anything is possible," Dominguez says.

After all, his success started her in the borderland, with titles like El Paso Top Model and Audi of El Paso Male Model of the Year. When he's not in front of the camera, he works as a home healthcare provider. He says he won't forget where he came from.

"I'm representing for the United States but trying to carry El Paso on my shoulders.  This is who I am and where I stand for my country," Dominguez says. He does have some experience in this arena, as he represented the U.S. as Mr. Teen Universe international two years ago, and won! The Mr. Universe contest is November 9th. We at ABC 7 wish Danny the best of luck!