Hi Santi, it’s a pleasure meeting you! How are you doing?

Hi, the pleasure is all mine! I’m doing amazing. I’m back in Brazil now to visit my family and enjoy the summertime ending with the wonderful Brazilian carnival, the best time of the year here.

First off, how would you describe yourself? Tell us about yourself.

Well, I am a very chill guy, I’m very calm, and I love spirituality and nature. I tend to enjoy the present moment cheerfully with lots of energy and excitement.

You’ve been modeling for over 20 years now. What got you into this industry in the first place? How were your first years as a model and how have you grown?

I confess that it wasn't my plan to become a model, but somehow the opportunities always came around wherever I went, then I decided to grab them. My plan was to leave the countryside and see the world, meet people, learn different cultures, learn new languages, and grow as a human being. When I realized that the international modeling career could give me the chance to do all of that and even more, that I could make a living with that, I went for it. I finished university with a degree in Business and took the opportunity to travel as a model for networking and expanding my knowledge. Now I also study investments and have other side projects.

You’ve also done supporting roles for movies and TV series as well. What can you tell us about your facet of working as an actor?

Yes indeed, and I’m honored to have had these opportunities. Actually, to work as a model we also need to act and transmit the feeling through the eyes and body expression which I love. Then, I decided to take some lessons and discovered some hidden talents that I would never know about before. Amazed by that, I decided to challenge myself and go for it. It was a great experience that has added a lot to my life and professional career.

Besides modeling, and as you’ve just mentioned, you graduated in Business Administration. What made you go in this direction professionally wise? Do you work as an investor at the moment?

Yes, I actually always wanted to understand management, leadership, and how to control my finances. After that, I wanted to learn how to invest and make money multiply to help my family and others in the future.

You also mention being a Yogi. Tell us about it.

As mentioned before, I am a very spiritual and energetic person, so I believe what got me interested in knowing more about Yoga came from this side of me. What a great combination that yoga brings… it exercises your whole body, mind, and soul. I fell in love with that and I ended up having the opportunity to become a yoga teacher as well. More than that I believe yoga is about daily life and I love to share what I learned with others.

After what we’ve mentioned, you chose to travel the world as a model/influencer to expand your knowledge and networking. Where have you been traveling and how’s the experience been so far?

Yes, and I am so grateful to have had this opportunity in my life. I've been traveling around 10 countries including USA and Japan where I've been many times and got a lot of good experiences. I love Tokyo and New York City and also I couldn't forget about Indonesia which has a special place in my heart, the country that embraced me in the beginning and which is a big responsibility for making me become who I am today as a person and professionally. "Saya Cinta Kamu, Bali-Indonesia"

You shot a really lovely story for Yummyzine Issue Three with Sasha Olsen. What was this experience like for you? Did you enjoy it?

Thank you. I loved it! Sasha is an amazing photographer, has great taste, and knows exactly what he wants for the concept. Also, he knows how to get the best out of a model. He makes you feel so comfortable, making you give your best and enjoy it at the same time.

The result of this shoot is amazing. Was this your first nude shoot? Are you usually comfortable naked?

Thank you so much and yes, I loved it as well. It wasn't my first time being nude in a shoot but was my first time doing a frontal nude photoshoot that would be published. So I had a special taste and I loved it that it is for Yummy. Nowadays, I’m comfortable with nudity. I love my body and I learned to accept it fully as It is.

What does the word yummy mean to you? What’s the first thing that pops up in your mind?

Something delicious of course, and the first word that comes to my mind is "Gostooooso" I think this word really suits a Brazilian model.

What’s it like to be as handsome as you are? Can you share with us your secret? Do you get many compliments via social media or in real life?  

Thank you for the compliment. Actually, I don't consider myself more handsome than anybody. For me, the most precious feature is the beauty that comes from within. Aesthetics is a matter of personal taste. I personally can see beauty in all the different types of it. I love people and I prefer to see their hearts, feel their energy, and hope I can connect with them. My secret is to love myself and love others as we are. That way I will naturally take care of myself and others. It makes me feel good, bringing a smile to my face and looking handsome I guess.