Jessica Da Silva: Miss Global Taught Me That Motherhood Is Not a Limitation, But Strength (Miss Global 2021, Miss Universe UAE Finalist, Brazil)

 Jessica Da Silva Interview

"My hope is to leave a legacy where beauty queens are not remembered for gowns or crowns, but for the lives they changed."

Q. From Paraíba to global stages like Miss Universe UAE and Miss Global, what moment has defined your journey the most?

The defining moment of my journey was when I walked on the Miss Global stage in 2021, representing the UAE, and heard my name announced as the winner. At that moment, I thought back to my childhood in Paraíba — growing up on unpaved streets, sometimes not knowing if there would be food at home. 

My mother always told me that education could change my life, and she was right. Becoming the first mother and Middle Eastern representative to win Miss Global was not only a personal victory but a symbol of hope for every child and woman who dreams beyond their circumstances.

Q. As the first mother and Middle Eastern representative to win Miss Global, what does this milestone mean to you?

It means breaking barriers. When I competed, many people questioned if a mother could hold the crown or if someone representing the Middle East could achieve it. Winning proved that motherhood is not a limitation — it is a source of strength. 

And representing the UAE, my chosen home, showed that this country embraces diversity and empowers women to lead. For me, the milestone is not about being the first, but about ensuring I will not be the last. It is about opening doors for more women, more mothers, more voices to be heard.

Q. Pageantry takes more than beauty. What challenges did you overcome on your way to the crown?

My biggest challenge was my background. Coming from a small town in Brazil, growing up with limited resources, I was told many times that I wasn’t enough. But I turned every ‘no’ into motivation. I worked hard to study, to learn English by myself, to travel the world, and to use pageantry not as an escape but as a platform. 

I also faced the challenge of redefining what beauty means — to me, beauty is not perfection, it is purpose. Overcoming those challenges made me stronger, and it gave my crown true meaning.

Q. You’ve modeled and lived across many countries. How has global exposure shaped your outlook on life?

Living and modeling in more than 35 countries taught me that beauty, culture, and values may look different, but deep down, people everywhere want the same things: respect, dignity, and opportunity. 

Global exposure gave me empathy. It showed me that unity comes from celebrating differences, not erasing them. It also gave me confidence to use my voice on international platforms — because I carry not only my story, but the stories of so many people who dream of a better future.

Q. As a sustainable architect, humanitarian, and beauty queen, what causes matter most to you, and what legacy do you hope to leave?

The cause closest to my heart is education. That’s why I founded the Golden Eagle Foundation, which teaches English, technology, and culture to underprivileged children, women, and families. I believe education is the strongest tool to break cycles of poverty and inequality. 

As a sustainable architect, I also dedicate my work to building communities that respect both people and the environment. My hope is to leave a legacy where beauty queens are not remembered for gowns or crowns, but for the lives they changed. Because for me, a crown is not a decoration — it is a commitment. And my commitment is to remind the world that education is power.

Bio

Jessica Da Silva is a Brazilian fashion model, architect, and advocate for sustainability who has beautifully blended her passion for design, culture, and global impact. A finalist for Miss Universe UAE and crowned Miss Global 2021, she embodies elegance with purpose, using her platform to champion sustainable practices and meaningful change.

With degrees in Architecture and Sustainability, along with postgraduate studies at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) specializing in functional and sustainable interior design, Jessica’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to creating spaces that are both innovative and environmentally conscious.

Her modeling career began in her mid-teens and has since taken her across four continents and 12 countries, where she has represented world-renowned brands including Louis Vuitton, Prada, Nike, MAC Cosmetics, and Al Mansoori, as well as emerging designers redefining global fashion. In 2022, she was honored as the Face of the UAE, marking another milestone in her international journey.

Beyond fashion and design, Jessica has pursued excellence in diverse fields—she is a 50-meter swim championship medalist, an avid chess player, and the recipient of a bronze medal in Brazil. Her drive for achievement is matched by her compassion: she has long supported and volunteered with social initiatives, and through her own Golden Eagle Foundation, she provides English education and mentorship to underprivileged communities.

Above all, Jessica embraces her most cherished role—that of being a loving mother to her young daughter—balancing motherhood with her mission to help build a more sustainable, equitable, and inspiring world.

Follow Jessica on Instagram

Interviewed By Irene Elina Eldhose