CELEBRITY COVER EDITION - GLOBAL ISSUE
The undisputed Queen of Barroca Zona Sul for two years, Juju Salimeni is the embodiment of discipline, athletic beauty, and an unyielding passion for Carnival. For her, parading down the avenue goes far beyond the sparkle of costumes or the captivating rhythm of the drums — it’s a ritual, a fusion of spirituality and the physical strength she has built over the years.
This Carnival, Juju promises to deliver her best version yet. After losing 10 kilos, she embraced a new aesthetic path: a leaner, more athletic physique with well-defined muscles — a transformation she says has been embraced by her audience, reinforcing her constant evolution. "My goal was to step onto the avenue this year with the best body of my life," she says, making it clear that every rehearsal and every tweak to her diet is part of a meticulous strategy.
But Carnival 2025 holds an even deeper meaning: Juju will embody Iansã herself — the powerful orixá of winds and storms, a figure of strength, courage, and energy — qualities that resonate not only in her presence on the avenue but also in her personal journey. The costume, enhanced with special effects, promises to be one of the most impactful of her career — a true reflection of the feminine power she so boldly represents.
Alongside her fiancé, a bodybuilder and her greatest ally in her physical preparation, Juju emphasizes that focus and dedication are not hers alone — they are part of a shared routine, where discipline and love walk hand in hand.
In an exclusive interview with Hooks Magazine, Juju reveals details about her latest rehearsals, her preparation routine, and the excitement of bringing Iansã to life on the avenue. Get ready to uncover the strength, determination, and inspiration behind the sparkle.
Check out the interview:
How are the preparations for this year’s Carnival going?
They’re in full swing! My goal this year was to achieve the best shape of my life. Last year, I lost 10 kilos, so now my focus has been on sculpting my muscles, making them more defined. I decided to lose weight because I wanted to move away from that more swollen look — my preference has changed. Nowadays, I prefer a more athletic, leaner body with well-defined muscles. I’m really happy because this change was very well received by my fans and followers, and I’ve been getting a lot of compliments.
How have the latest rehearsals been? What are your expectations for the big day?
The rehearsals have been very special. Barroca’s samba is, without a doubt, the best in São Paulo — it captivates everyone and brings an amazing energy. The feeling of being there, surrounded by that vibe, is incredible. The expectations for the parade are sky-high! We’re very excited and prepared to put on a true show on the avenue. The school's theme is Iansã, and we’re sure she’ll be blessing us.
Does anything change in your routine or diet as the parade day approaches?
Absolutely! In fact, we made an important adjustment just a few days ago, now that we're in the final stretch. My husband, who handles my preparation, reduced the carbohydrates in my diet so that my body becomes even leaner. This will make my muscles stand out even more on parade day. It’s a strategic move to achieve the perfect result on the avenue.
Can we get a sneak peek of this year's costume?
Of course! I’m incredibly honored to represent Iansã herself, who is the theme of the school. The costume will be a powerful tribute to her — bold, striking, and full of personality. It will have special effects, something truly magical, and I believe it will be one of the most beautiful costumes I’ve ever worn in these 15 years of Carnival.
Does your fiancé, being a bodybuilder, help you stay focused during this preparation?
Absolutely, 100%! He is extremely experienced and knows exactly what I need to achieve the results I want. Having someone by my side who also leads a healthy and disciplined lifestyle makes all the difference. It’s a constant exchange, and that helps me stay focused. We are aiming for the best shape of my life for this Carnival.
