In this episode, Tessa speaks with Paula Rodrigues, whose journey began in Brazil’s favelas and went on to span TVCs in Thailand, the runways of Milan and Paris, and ultimately a flourishing career in Dubai. Starting out as a teenager who never imagined herself as a model, Paula has built an international career defined by resilience, adaptability, and self-belief.
She reflects on the highs and lows of the industry, from navigating rejection and toxic competition in Europe to finding opportunity and diversity in Dubai’s fast-growing fashion market. Paula also shares how Covid taught her the importance of financial education, why she values agency support and community, and how she continues to stay grounded while living far from her family.
This conversation offers a candid look at the realities of modelling across cultures and continents, the challenges of starting over, and the power of staying true to yourself. Whether you’re a model, a creative, or simply drawn to stories of strength and transformation.
Interview by Tessa Dewing for The Business of Modelling Podcast
Paula Rodrigues’ story begins in Brazil, where a friend’s photography project first put her in front of a camera. What started as an unexpected step into modelling soon became a career that took her from São Paulo to Thailand, Milan, Paris, and ultimately to Dubai, where she has found both opportunity and belonging.
“I Never Wanted to Be a Model”
As a teenager, Paula had no intention of entering the industry. “I was a tomboy, skateboarding with my friends,” she recalls. “One day, my friend asked me to model for her photography work. I didn’t want to at first, but I agreed to help.”
Her friend sent the images to an agency without telling her and to Paula’s surprise, she was signed. “They told me, ‘You don’t belong to Brazil, you belong to international modelling.’ I couldn’t believe it was happening to me.”
From Bangkok to Milan
Paula’s first major trip was to Thailand, where she worked on TV commercials and fashion shows, learning English along the way. “I could be myself in front of the camera dance, sing, act, and that gave me so much confidence.”
Her career then took her to Milan, where she walked Fashion Week and experienced the competitive side of modelling. “Some girls tried to sabotage me, they even put pepper in my food. It was tough, but I stayed focused. I’ve always believed if you relax and trust yourself, the work comes.”
Rejection and Resilience
Agencies told Paula her body didn’t fit the measurements required for certain fashion weeks. Instead of letting that define her, she chose to see it as part of the industry. “It’s not that you’re ugly or fat, you just don’t fit that category. But there are other opportunities where you do. That doesn’t take away your value.”
Her ability to separate personal worth from professional rejection has become one of her strongest traits. “I never saw competition as a threat,” she says. “There’s room for everyone.”
Finding Home in Dubai
After Covid put modelling on hold and highlighted the importance of financial education, Paula accepted an offer to work in Dubai, a decision that transformed her career. “I was working every day here. The agencies supported me like family, and I found a market that truly values diversity.”
Unlike Europe’s casting-heavy system, Dubai’s market gave her stability and respect. “Here, they love you for who you are, your hair, your skin, your body. I never feel I have to change myself to belong.”
Life Lessons Beyond Modelling
Paula’s journey has also been shaped by the values she learned from her mother. “My mum is my biggest inspiration. Even when life was hard, she always smiled and told me everything would be okay. She taught me strength.”
She now shares that strength with her sister, who began modelling in Dubai after being scouted. “This place gives so many opportunities, and I love that my sister has been able to experience it too.”
Her advice to aspiring models is practical but empowering: come with agency support, build genuine relationships, and use social media wisely. “Your Instagram is your portfolio. It’s not just for clients, it’s for people who see you as an inspiration.”
A Story of Strength and Self-Belief
Paula Rodrigues has built a career on resilience, adaptability, and staying true to herself. “Be yourself. Believe in your dreams. Anything is possible,” she says. “Confidence and authenticity are what will carry you through.”