Barbara Vitorelli at 75th Cannes Film Festival

Brazilian born model and actress Barbara Vitorelli (29) attended the 75^th annual Cannes Film Festival where she heated up the red carpet in a sustainable dress designed by Venera Tabakin. A former international beauty queen, the striking and soulful Vitorelli has travelled the world as a model and appeared on the cover of Harpers’ Bazaar, among multiple other fashion magazines. Currently living in London, she continues to progress with her acting career, as well as travel to international film festivals and beauty competitions, including the upcoming 9th annual "Miss Global", which will take place in Bali on June 11, 2022.

I interviewed Barbara during the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. Here is what she had to say: 

Can you tell us about your path towards becoming a model and actress? How did it all begin?

BARBARA: I used to say that I started my acting career when I was five years old while at school. I would always throw myself in as part of a play at school. Although I was a very shy child, my instinct was leading me to acting. I started modelling when I was 18, but somehow acting is part of modelling. We become a new persona when we are on the stage and representing a brand or a design; two different words that complement each other in my life.

Did you always know it was what you wanted to do?

BARBARA: I believe that deep inside we always know what we want to do, but we take some time to admit what that is to ourselves, because it might seem impossible or too challenging. When I Was a child, I had this instinct and this eagerness for acting, although I didn’t know anything about it. But I knew something was pulling me towards the art of representation. I grew up and life took me to different paths, but my soul was still craving for acting.

You haven’t chosen an easy path. What have been your biggest challenges and your biggest rewards thus far?

BARBARA: To chase our dreams is like shooting in the dark. We never know for sure what will happen, the surprises or challenges we will encounter on the way. We must enjoy and grow with the process. The biggest challenge is to keep on going, despite all the odds. And the biggest reward is when you achieve goals that no one expected you to be able to, surprising the people around you and yourself.

You are from Brazil but you live in London now. How has that experience impacted your life and career?

BARBARA: Although I was Born in Argentina, I was lucky to be raised in Brazil. It is a country full of diversity and it helped me to be very adaptable to every environment and culture. To go from a 3^rd world country to a place as developed as the UK is a big move, and I am embracing this adventure. London is a magical city, full of opportunities and surprises.

Do you feel that you will always live internationally, or do you hope to return to live and work in Brazil someday?

BARBARA: I used to say that I am a citizen of the world, that the world is my home and humanity is my family. But I really do want to do something meaningful in my country. Having said that, I also want to explore the opportunities I have abroad. That way, I can also bring to my country experience, opportunities, and knowledge to enrich my work in Brazil.  

What has been your proudest work so far?

BARBARA: I'm lucky that through my work as an international model, I had the opportunity to do humanitarian work around the world, supporting all kinds of women in situations of vulnerability and promoting the importance of education. I have been one of the youngest people to receive an international award for humanitarian work in Asia. I couldn’t be prouder of being an instrument of change and inspiration in people's life.

Who are your biggest inspirations, both in life and in your career?

BARBARA: I have had different people who inspire me in different areas and stages of my life. They include some great models, actors, and my parents. My top number one inspiration is Mother Teresa. My Biggest goal is to be a better person, and she for me is an example of faith, hope, unconditional love, and kindness. I always say that in order for us to be successful in any area of our life, we have to first be a good person.

You attended the 75th Cannes Film Festival. How was it this year post covid?

BARBARA: The First time I attended the Cannes Film Festival was in 2019, I was looking forward to being back. The pandemic put some limitations and restrictions on it and made it more challenging for people coming from all over the world. But despite the obstacles, the festival was amazing with great and talented people who could meet and exchange experience in the film industry.

In your opinion, why is Cannes important to attend as an actress and filmmaker?

BARBARA: Film Festivals in general are the perfect location for networking and getting to know what is new in the cinema and the acting industry around the world. Cannes is a place to connect with people with similar interests and projects. It's amazing to exchange news ideas with all these creative people. Cannes Itself is a magical place. It is the perfect place for opportunities and inspiration.

How has London impacted your Acting career?

BARBARA: Since I was a child, I have been a great lover of Literature. Most of my favourite writers and books come from English literature. It is the home of great plays from Shakespeare and fantastic actors that I admire. I have always had the dream to improve my acting by training in London. The city also provides lots of opportunities for productions, castings, and actors who want to build up a career. 

Interview by Vanessa McMahon