Valentina Sampaio receives model of the year title from Glamor Germany

Valentina Sampaio, born in Aquiraz, Ceará, was elected “Model of the Year” at the Glamor Germany 2024 Awards, which took place yesterday (12), in Berlin. The 27-year-old model is celebrated both for her professional achievements and the impact she has on the visibility and inclusion of the trans community. Sampaio was the first trans model to appear on the cover of French Vogue, in 2017, and the first to participate in a Victoria's Secret campaign, returning this year to the brand's fashion show and reaffirming its representation and pioneering spirit.

In an interview with Glamor Germany, the model spoke about the challenges she faced throughout her career, especially those arising from prejudice and barriers imposed by society. “What makes me stronger is knowing who I am and not being afraid to be who I am”said Valentina, highlighting the importance of asserting yourself in a world that is still prejudiced against trans people.

A model for inclusion and diversity in fashion

For Valentina, being named model of the year has an important symbolic weight. The model revealed that she grew up without having trans representations with whom she could identify. “I became the reference that I didn’t have”he stated. In fact, Sampaio has opened space for other trans models and fought for fashion to be a more inclusive environment. In his view, it is essential that the industry continues to move forward so that trans people are seen and respected, without discrimination.

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Phenix Kühnert presents the “Model of the Year” award to Valentina Sampaio on stage at the “GLAMOUR Women Of The Year Award” in Berlin, Germany (Photo: reproduction/Andreas Rentz/Getty Images Embed)

Currently, Valentina feels in a place of greater security and acceptance in fashion, but remembers that her path was marked by numerous difficulties. “Being trans still means having doors closed due to prejudice”he explained. Despite the advances, the model points out that fashion and society as a whole still need to make an effort to truly embrace diversity.

Inspiration for future talents

“Look at me. Be the first person to love and accept yourself exactly as you are.”, said Valentina Sampaio using her position to encourage young trans people to believe in themselves. On her social networks and in interviews, she often shares messages of empowerment and highlights the importance of valuing yourself.

Featured photo: Valentina Sampaio attends the 2021 Met Gala, with the theme “In America: A Fashion Lexicon” (Reproduction/Taylor Hill/Getty Images Embed)