From the Açores to a New Beginning
Gina Ellene Da Silva’s story begins with a bold leap. At just 15 years old, she left the serene island of the Açores behind and arrived in Canada—young, hopeful, and determined to build a brighter future. What she carried with her was more than luggage; she carried an intuitive aesthetic eye, a natural desire to uplift others, and, as she warmly admits, her mother’s beauty.
These gifts opened the doors of the luxury fashion world. Gina immersed herself in the industry, working with global giants such as Gucci, Burberry, and YSL. The fashion houses became her training ground, and the high-profile individuals she worked with became part of her journey. These early experiences shaped her path, sharpened her instincts, and allowed her to build extraordinary relationships that would later influence the woman—and the leader—she became.
Where Fashion Revealed a Deeper Purpose
While modeling and styling gave Gina a front-row seat to beauty, glamour, and transformation, they also revealed truths she couldn’t ignore. Behind the beauty, she saw the shadows: the pressure, the unrealistic expectations, and the silent comparisons that both women and men endured.
Fashion, much like social media today, often projected an unattainable ideal. And Gina, who had always loved helping people feel confident, knew she wanted to contribute something more meaningful—something real.
That desire led her into the aesthetic pharmaceutical world, eventually guiding her toward a career in cosmetic surgery at Elements Surgery Center. Working alongside one of Canada’s top plastic surgeons, she co-built the first female-led establishment of its kind. For over 25 years, without a single marketing campaign, Gina earned the loyalty of clients through trust, results, and sincere care.
Helping people become the best version of themselves—mentally and physically—became not just her purpose, but her life’s work.
A Woman Defined by Humility
In an industry often associated with perfection and prestige, what sets Gina apart is her humility. Her journey wasn’t effortless. She faced struggles of her own, yet never let hardship steal her kindness.
She never treated anyone as a transaction. Every interaction, every gesture, every moment of care was genuine.
To Gina, success is not about rising above others—it’s about helping raise the standard of life around you. She believes compassion and respect matter more than titles or appearances. She helps people because of who she is, not because of who they are.
And that, she says with quiet pride, is what makes her unique.
Choosing Work That Mirrors Her Values
Gina is selective with her projects—not out of ego, but out of integrity. She chooses opportunities based on the values of the people behind them. Whether it’s a magazine, photographer, or organization, she looks for honesty, intention, and respect.
If it does not align with her principles, she walks away without hesitation.
What Truly Drives Her
Her motivation is beautifully simple:
Great results. The joy of accomplishment. A sincere “thank you.”
Appreciation fuels her. Giving back fulfills her. And knowing that her work helps someone feel seen, valued, or more confident—that is what keeps her going.
Redefining Success With Heart
For Gina, success isn’t measured in accolades or wealth. It lives in the moments of gratitude—in the spark of confidence in a client’s eyes, in the quiet acknowledgment that she has changed someone’s life for the better.
Success is compassion. It is authenticity. It is contribution.
Above all, success is using your gifts to lift others.
A Milestone She Holds Close
When asked what she is most proud of, Gina doesn’t mention brands, titles, or high-profile connections. She speaks of character. She is proud of living a disciplined, honest life—one rooted in respect for others and for herself.
She surrounded herself with people she admired, stayed true to her path, and held onto her values even when life tested her. To her, remaining grounded has been her greatest, quietest achievement.
A Future Built on Vision and Heart
Today, Gina continues her work with an extraordinary team at Elements Surgery Center. From her surgeon partner, Dr. Adibfar, to the surgical and cleaning staff, every person is valued—and every detail matters.
She continues to deliver aesthetic results that exceed expectations, but always with integrity, compassion, and genuine care at the core.
As for what lies ahead, Gina plans to continue her journey as a cosmetic expert, enjoy modeling on the side, and someday build her next major project in Monaco, France. But for now, she is deeply fulfilled in Toronto—grateful, grounded, and committed to the work she loves.
Credits:
Featured Model: Gina Ellene Da Silva
Photographer: Mari Nomad
Makeup Artist: Sara Elle LeBlanc
Hairstylist: Justin German