In a groundbreaking moment for the fashion industry, Valentina Sampaio, the first openly transgender model to walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway, made her historic debut at the revamped event in Brooklyn, New York. Sharing the spotlight with fellow transgender model and TikTok sensation Alex Consani, Sampaio shattered long-standing barriers in one of the world’s most prestigious lingerie showcases. This monumental occasion marks the first time transgender women have been featured on the Victoria’s Secret runway, signaling a significant shift toward inclusivity in an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity.
A Dream Realized Against All Odds
For Sampaio, the moment was nothing short of a lifelong aspiration come to fruition. “It was a dream come true, one that so many people told me would be impossible for me to ever realize—and I just did,” she expressed with palpable emotion. Speaking to media outlets, including TMZ and People Magazine, she highlighted the personal and collective significance of her participation. “It makes me feel seen, accepted, and valued for who I am as a person, as a professional,” she stated, emphasizing the deep validation that comes from being recognized in her true identity.
Sampaio’s perseverance and ground-breaking accomplishments have marked her journey to this historic runway. Born in the village of Aquiraz in Northeastern Brazil, she began identifying as female at the tender age of 12. Despite facing societal challenges and skepticism, she forged ahead, determined to carve out a space for herself and others in the fashion world. Her resilience paid off when she became the first transgender person to appear on the cover of Vogue Paris, a milestone that catapulted her into international acclaim.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
The inclusion of Sampaio and Consani in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is more than a personal victory; it represents a pivotal moment for transgender visibility in mainstream media. “It’s collectively a step forward in celebrating the rights of my community to live and work with dignity,” Sampaio affirmed. “We are here. We always have been here, and we always will be here.” Her words resonate deeply with many in the transgender community, who have long sought recognition and representation in industries that have historically excluded them.
Alex Consani, who has rapidly become one of the most sought-after faces in fashion, echoed similar sentiments. Known for her dynamic presence on TikTok and her work with IMG Models, Consani took to social media to express her excitement. “Little me is screaming,” she wrote on Instagram, accompanying photos of her radiant appearance on the runway. “I can’t even say anything other than thank you.” Her gratitude underscores the importance of such platforms in inspiring younger generations to pursue their dreams unabated by societal limitations.
Navigating Backlash and Embracing Support
While the inclusion of transgender models in the show has been hailed as a progressive step by many, it has not been without controversy. Some detractors have taken to social media to express their disapproval, with transphobic comments and criticisms surfacing in various forums. Notably, anti-trans pundit Riley Gaines labeled the show a “drag show” for featuring Sampaio and Consani, and her followers echoed derogatory sentiments.
However, both models have chosen to focus on the positive impact of their participation rather than the negativity. Sampaio addressed the backlash with grace and resilience. “I applaud Victoria’s Secret for ignoring wider judgment and allowing both me and Alex to walk the runway,” she stated. Her response highlights the importance of standing firm in one’s truth despite external criticisms, a lesson that resonates with many transgender individuals facing similar challenges.
A Revamped Show Reflecting Modern Values
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show’s return after a six-year hiatus was met with great anticipation, especially given the brand’s promise of more diversity and inclusion. In previous years, the company faced significant criticism for its lack of representation and for fostering a toxic work culture. Former Chief Marketing Officer Ed Razek’s comments in 2018, where he dismissed the inclusion of transgender and plus-sized models by saying “the show is a fantasy,” sparked widespread backlash and calls for change.
This year’s show appeared to take those criticisms to heart. Alongside Sampaio and Consani, the runway featured legendary supermodels such as Tyra Banks, Gigi Hadid, and Alessandra Ambrosio. Additionally, the inclusion of curvier models like Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser showcased a broader range of body types, challenging traditional beauty standards perpetuated by the industry. The brand’s commitment to showcasing diversity in size, shape, and representation signals a shift toward a more inclusive and realistic portrayal of beauty.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Sampaio hopes that her historic walk will pave the way for greater acceptance and opportunities for transgender individuals in fashion and beyond. “Inclusivity is crucial to the world we’re building, and I’m honored to walk with pride, love, and the hope of inspiring the next generation,” she shared. Her message is a beacon of hope for young transgender people who aspire to see themselves represented in all facets of society.
Her agency, Lions Management, emphasized the significance of her achievements. They noted that her appearance on the cover of Vogue Paris was the first time a transgender model was featured on a worldwide cover, setting a precedent for others to follow. Since then, Sampaio has collaborated with major brands like Marc Jacobs Beauty, Dior Beauty, and H&M, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer.
The Road Ahead for Transgender Representation
The fashion industry’s gradual embrace of transgender models reflects a broader societal shift toward recognizing and valuing diverse identities. However, there is still much work to be done. Transgender individuals continue to face disproportionate levels of discrimination, violence, and marginalization. Visibility in high-profile events like the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show can challenge misconceptions and promote acceptance, but systemic changes are necessary to address the root causes of inequality.
Sampaio’s and Consani’s successes serve as powerful reminders of what can be achieved when barriers are broken down. Their presence on such a prominent stage challenges the status quo and opens doors for others. “I’d like to see more brands embrace diversity and representation,” Sampaio urged. Her call to action invites the fashion industry and society at large to continue progressing toward inclusivity.
For transgender individuals, as well as their families and allies, moments like these are both affirming and inspiring. They demonstrate that despite the obstacles, it is possible to achieve one’s dreams and effect meaningful change. Allies play a crucial role in this journey, providing support and advocacy that can amplify the voices of transgender people.
Families, too, are integral in fostering environments where transgender individuals feel accepted and loved. Sampaio’s story underscores the importance of early recognition and support. Identified as transgender by a psychologist at eight years old, she began living authentically at 12, setting the foundation for her future accomplishments.
The Bottom Line
Valentina Sampaio’s historic walk at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is more than a personal achievement; it’s a milestone that resonates with many who have felt unseen and unheard. Her courage and determination shine a light on the possibilities that emerge when inclusivity becomes a priority. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, the hope is that such moments will become the norm rather than the exception.
For the transgender community, their families, and allies, Sampaio’s success is a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of representation. It serves as a reminder that dreams are attainable and that with perseverance and support, barriers can be broken.
“We are here. We always have been here, and we always will be here,” Sampaio confidently stated. Her words encapsulate the enduring presence and resilience of the transgender community—a presence that enriches the tapestry of our shared human experience.
