Heading to the World Stage: The International Rise of Débora Saraiva

FRANCE COVER EDITION - MAY 2025 ISSUE

Makeup and Photo: Renan Saran - @renan.saran / Dress: @idealdresses_brasil / Model: @deborasaraiva_

Débora Saraiva is one of those women whose story inspires from the very first moment. Born in a small town in Bahia, Brazil, she carved her path step by step — first in São Paulo, then across European runways and campaign sets. Today, she graces the cover of the France Edition of Hooks Magazine, embodying the beauty, strength, and authenticity of a new generation of Brazilian models.

It all began with a dream and a great deal of courage. When she arrived in São Paulo with her first major campaign secured, Débora knew something special was happening — and it truly was. In a short time, she was working with major brands like Intimissimi, Fabulous Agilità, Shop2gether, and Charth. But behind the beautiful images and the glamorous life lies hard work, discipline, and many sleepless nights. As she puts it, getting to where she is meant loving every part of the process — even the toughest behind-the-scenes moments.

One of the most defining moments of her career was a campaign for The Closet, where Débora realized just how powerful imagery can be. More than just appearance, she came to understand that fashion is a form of communication — of emotions, values, and lifestyle. That’s when she saw how her authenticity could connect with others and serve as a source of inspiration.

On the international stage, Débora has already made her mark in cities like Milan, Rome, Paris — and even the Maldives. In each place, she rediscovered herself. Far from her comfort zone, she uncovered an inner strength she didn’t even know she had. She learned to adapt, to slow down, and to find value in life’s simplest moments. This new chapter has become a powerful learning experience — not just for her career, but for her life.

Despite all the change, Débora has never lost touch with her roots. Her mother remains her greatest inspiration, and the lessons she passed on live in every decision Débora makes. Respect, humility, generosity, and courage are values she carries with her wherever she goes.

For other girls who dream big, Débora has a clear message: don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start with what you have and go forward with courage. Dreaming big is a way of showing the world who you are — and yes, it’s absolutely possible to go far without losing your essence.

Read the full interview with Débora Saraiva:

1. Débora, leaving a small town in Bahia to carve out space in São Paulo and now abroad is a powerful journey. When did you realize your dream was truly becoming reality?

Wow… there were so many unforgettable moments, but I think one of the key ones was when I stepped into São Paulo with my first major campaign already secured. That’s when it hit me: “Oh my God, this is really happening.” And later, being in places like Milan or Paris, representing brands I’ve always admired — that’s when it really sank in. But you know… even with everything I’ve experienced, I still find myself surprised. Coming from a small town in Bahia and seeing how far I’ve come reminds me every day that dreaming big is worth it — and that there’s still so much more ahead.

2. You mentioned that your campaign with The Closet was a turning point in your career. What did that experience teach you about the power of image and influence?

The campaign with The Closet was truly a game changer for me. It showed me, in practice, that image goes far beyond aesthetics — it communicates values, personality, and even a lifestyle. I also learned about the power of influence: how a well-crafted message can inspire, connect, and even shift perceptions. That experience made me realize that every visual choice carries impact, and that authenticity is what truly creates connection.

3. Today, you represent major brands like Intimissimi, Fabulous Agilità, Shop2gether, and Charth. How do you balance the glamour of campaigns with the hard work and discipline behind the scenes?

Oh… it's a daily balance, really. A lot of people only see the glamour — the campaigns, the events, the stunning looks… but behind it all there’s a lot of hustle, organization, and real discipline. Representing brands like Intimissimi, Fabulous Agilità, Shop2gether, and Charth is an honor, but also a huge responsibility. There are days when I’m completely exhausted, but I keep going because I know every detail matters. In the end, I think the key is loving the process — even the behind-the-scenes moments filled with spreadsheets, meetings, and sleepless nights.

4. As you embrace this new international phase, living in places like Milan, Rome, Paris, and even the Maldives, what has most surprised you about yourself?

Wow, this new phase has been one discovery after another. Being in these places pulled me out of my comfort zone in ways I never imagined. What has surprised me the most about myself is my ability to adapt and reinvent, even when I'm far from what feels familiar. I discovered a strength that maybe was always there, but I only truly saw it now. I also learned to slow down, observe more, enjoy the silence… the simple things.

5. You speak with great admiration about your mother. How do the values she taught you influence your personal and professional choices today?

My mother is my foundation. She always has been. The values she passed on to me — like respect, humility, strength, and generosity — are present in everything I do, both personally and professionally. She always taught me that staying true to yourself is what keeps you grounded, even when the world tries to push you in another direction. In every choice I make, I think a lot about what she would do, what she would say… and that guides me. It’s like she’s always with me.

6. Believing in yourself, not settling, and moving forward are powerful themes in your story. What advice would you give to other girls who dream of rising beyond their origins?

I’d say: believe in yourself, even when no one else does. Don’t wait for the perfect moment — start with what you have, right where you are. “Growth doesn’t require perfection, it requires movement.” Rising beyond your origins isn’t about denying where you come from; it’s about honoring that journey with courage. There will be fear, there will be doubt, but don’t settle. Take it one step at a time, with honesty and dedication. And above all, surround yourself with people who lift you up — no one grows alone. Dreaming big is an act of resistance — and yes, you can go far beyond.