Mendoza became Miss Chocó in 2001, a year in which Miss Colombia was facing a racial scandal. She became the first Black Miss Colombia, winning the title over first runner up, Consuelo Guzmán Parra.
The passage describes Mendoza's achievement as Miss Chocó in 2001, which occurred during a year marked by racial issues within the Miss Colombia pageant. Her victory was significant because she became the first Black Miss Colombia and defeated Consuelo Guzmán Parra for the top spot.