September 15 marked the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the heritage and culture of Hispanics and Latinos who have made a difference in the United States. In honor of the month, we're celebrating the influential and inspiring Latina women who have made their mark over the years by breaking records, beating the odds and standing out.

Sofia Vergara: Colombian

Before she was known to us simply as Gloria on the hit series "Modern Family," Vergara escaped the unrest in Colombia, battled thyroid cancer and built herself a successful career in the entertainment industry as a single working mother. In 2014, Forbes ranked the CoverGirl the 32nd most powerful women in the world.

Rita Moreno: Puerto Rican

Actress Rita Moreno first won over audiences on Broadway in Bernstein and Sondheim's "West Side Story," where she took the leading female role of Maria. Since her stage debut, she has gone on to become one of the very few people to EGOT (win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and a Tony), and became the first Hispanic performer to do so.

Bianca Jagger: Nicaraguan

The '70s fashionista is known for many feats: perfecting the art of the plunging neckline, being BFFs with Andy Warhol, wearing a blazer to her wedding and marrying Mick Jagger while doing so. But the former actress is also known for her notable work as a social and human rights activist, using her influence as a Good Will Ambassador and member of the Leadership Council of Amnesty International USA.

Eva Longoria: Mexican

While we fell in love with her materialistic Gabby on "Desperate Housewives," actress Eva Longoria is constantly reminding us she's more than a pretty face in the real world. Named Philanthropist of the Year by the Hollywood Reporter for her work with Padres Contra El Cancer (Parents Against Cancer), a nonprofit that seeks to improve the lives of Latino children with cancer, Longoria is a very politically active celebrity who spoke at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, and more recently, initiated the Latina Victory Project to raise funds for Latina candidates.