Born in the San Francisco Bay Area, Marie Villatuya, now known as Ia, got her first spark of interest in performing when she began competing in gymnastics and the Korean martial art of Tae Kwon Do. Adolescent years found Ia pouring her energy into a kaleidoscope of artistic disciplines and performances from jazz, Latin and hip-hop dance groups to modeling, theatre troupes and local beauty pageants. It was Ia's poise and elegance combined with her quick wit that made her a standout when she won the titles of Mutya ng Pilipinas - Gem of the Philippines and Miss Asian of San Francisco. The victories gave her the assuranceto pack it up and move to Hollywood!Ia earned her first screen credit when director, Thomas Carter, hand-selected her to play a beautiful Tahitian-French speaking waitress with famed comedian, Eddie Murphy, in the movie Metro. Despite the new opening, Ia felt her heart was pulling in another direction. She applied to the Peace Corps, left Hollywood and returned home to expedite the application process. Fate intervened a few days later, when a surprise call from her former manager put her on a flight to Jakarta to teach modeling at the first John Casablancas Modeling && Career Center in Asia and launch Elite Models, Indonesia. Her exuberance quickly advanced her to the position of International Consultant. When cultural restrictions conflicted with the curriculum, Ia restructured it to embrace the cultural sensitivities. Her work continues today to empower and equip the young women of Indonesia with confidence, grace, beauty, and style.When severe political upheaval forced her to leave the country, Ia returned to the Bay Area, where her modeling and acting career persisted. Her dazzling smile gained recognition when she was prominently featured in campaigns for Ford Motors, Levi's, Oracle, Gap, Wal-Mart and Packard Bell, to name a few. Ia's diverse talents also extend into make-up artistry. Her credits include Banana Republic, Mervyn's, Fortune Small Business, A. Magazine and the soon to be released coffee table book and DVD, Arkiteknik.Not to be overlooked, Ia is an accomplished businesswoman who is recognized as one of the top female speakers and trainers for a successful, multi-million dollar company, Lexxus International. An inspiring public speaker, Ia has been asked to create her own motivational CD to share the wisdom and experiences that helped shape her life as a successful single mother.If you want to see what triggers the greatest sparkle in her eyes, just ask her about her two-year old son, Sol Angel. Motherhood has given Ia a new radiance and fresh perspective. After a short break, Ia has returned to aggressively pursue her career. She's currently studying with acclaimed acting coach, John Homa. Wherever the stage is, IA owns it! Show less «