Photos Bruno Oliveira
In the month of Trans Visibility, celebrated on January 29, we highlight the story of Vicki Demito, also known as Vitória Guarizo, a digital influencer and trans activist whose journey has been marked by challenges, achievements, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion and diversity.
Vicki began her public journey in 2017, when she participated in the "Criança Esperança" project by Rede Globo. She recalls, "It was a gateway to many other projects, like Instagram at the time, where the ideas of digital influencers began." Her participation in this project not only placed her in the spotlight but also positioned her as one of the pioneers in the digital influencer era in Brazil.
Throughout her career, Vicki has faced significant challenges, including the filming of a reality show titled "No Filter," which documented intense personal moments, such as her marriage and divorce. She shares, "It was four years of filming, and I still don’t feel comfortable releasing it." This experience reflects the complexity of exposing intimate aspects of one's personal life while navigating the public sphere as a trans woman.
Always communicative and outgoing, Vicki began sharing her daily life while studying in Spain. She reflects, "Over time, I realized that my existence was a form of resistance and that it contributed to others." Her online presence became a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the importance of trans representation on social media.
Regarding the importance of trans visibility, especially in a country with high rates of transphobia, Vicki states, "I see it as a form of resistance, to show that we are here and we won't give up." Her resilient stance serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for recognition and equal rights for the trans community in Brazil.
Among the most significant moments of her career, Vicki highlights her participation in "Criança Esperança" (is an annual Brazilian television charity event organized by the Globo TV network. Its goal is to raise funds for social projects that benefit underprivileged children and adolescents across Brazil) and a beauty campaign for Capricho Magazine in 2017. She recalls, "These were moments I hold dear." These experiences not only solidified her position in the media but also expanded trans visibility in traditionally cisnormative spaces.
For trans youth seeking self-acceptance, Vicki advises patience: "We live in the digital age, where everything moves so fast, causing anxiety and comparisons. Everyone has their own process; trust your own timing." She emphasizes the importance of respecting one’s own pace and valuing the uniqueness of each individual journey.
She also highlights the positive role of social media in amplifying trans voices: "We have information at our fingertips, which can be used to our advantage. I see a positive impact in this exchange of information and emotional support." Digital platforms have been crucial in creating support networks and spreading relevant information to the trans community.
Currently, Vicki is an ambassador for the Selo Vitória, an initiative that promotes the inclusion of trans people in the corporate environment. She shares, "It's a project that has a lot of love involved, a lot of welcome; it’s my current dream." The Vitória Seal is a certification created to recognize and encourage companies that are committed to adopting effective inclusion policies for trans people, transforming organizational cultures, and promoting diversity in the workforce.
During a recent trip to Madrid, a city she describes as a welcoming and inclusive refuge for the trans community, Vicki took the opportunity to share her mission as an ambassador for the Selo Vitória. During her stay, she held meetings with Spanish media and brands interested in the project, expanding the international reach of the initiative. 
To the public, Vicki leaves a powerful message: "We exist, we want acceptance, love, and recognition. In the end, we are all human beings. Less prejudice and more love." Her journey exemplifies the strength and resilience of the trans community, inspiring everyone to fight for a more inclusive and respectful society.
In the month of Trans Visibility, Vicki Demito’s story serves as a beacon of hope and determination, reminding us of the importance of recognizing, respecting, and celebrating diversity in all its forms.
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