Valentina Sampaio Makes Waves in SI Swim 2021

Valentina is a woman of firsts, and her commitment to advocacy has us in awe.

Valentina Sampaio is a woman of firsts. The Brazilian was the first transgender model to appear on the cover of Vogue Paris in 2017 followed by appearances on the covers of Vogue Brasil and Vogue Germany that same year. She later became the first transgender model for both Victoria’s Secret and SI Swimsuit. Success for the 24-year-old, who works with major brands like L'Oreal, Moschino, Balmain and Dior Beauty, hasn’t come easy. Doors were closed, but she has broken through and now uses her platform to advocate for trans rights across the globe.

Valentina Sampaio was photographed by Ben Watts in Hollywood, FL.

MJ Day: Why Valentina?

Valentina is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful women I have ever met. External attributes aside, her sweet, gentle nature coupled with her fearless work for acceptance and respect in the trans community and her commitment to advocacy should serve as a reminder to all that who we are is never defined by one singular categorization. Being a part of Valentina's story and working together to bring awareness and equality is an honor and a privilege for the entire SI Swimsuit team.