Rewriting The Rules
with Playboy Finland August 2024 cover star Mayra Dias Gomes / @maryadiasgomes
Mayra, welcome back to Playboy! You graced the cover of Playboy Denmark in February 2023, and now you’re on the cover of Playboy Finland. How has your life changed since then? I’m so happy to be back! Being on the cover of Playboy Denmark was a dream come true and a pivotal moment in my career. It opened doors I had only dreamed of in modeling, writing, hosting, and public speaking. Most importantly, Playboy provided a platform for me to share my personal growth journey, allowing me to inspire and support others on their paths.
We’ve heard you’ve visited Finland several times. Can you tell us about your experiences there? Absolutely! I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Finland multiple times. My first trip was when I was 19, working as a journalist for Brazil’s largest newspaper. I was invited by the Finnish consulate to Helsinki to interview metal bands and promote them back in Brazil. Since then, I’ve made many friends in Finland and have fallen in love with numerous Finnish rock and roll bands. Hanoi Rocks, HIM, and the 69 Eyes are some of my favorite bands and very close friends. I love Finnish music, and how rocknroll the culture is.
You’ve been on quite a journey, from a celebrated cover girl to an advocate for mental health. How did this path begin? What sparked my advocacy for mental health was my own personal journey. I’ve experienced my share of struggles and learned so much about resilience, self-worth, and the importance of mental health. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to use my platform to make a positive impact.
What does it mean to heal? Healing isn’t just about addressing past traumas, it’s about preparing ourselves to embrace happiness when it comes our way.
Can you share a personal experience where you felt you sabotaged your own happiness? It’s something I’ve experienced firsthand. Imagine being on a date with someone who is genuinely kind, attentive, respectful, and available. Instead of enjoying the moment, I found myself questioning his intentions—wondering if he was manipulating me, love-bombing, or playing me. The inability to trust and feel comfortable in that scenario made me realize I had a lot if work to do.
What do you look for in a man? I’m drawn to men who are creative, adventurous, charming, confident, and charismatic. I adore deep connections. I want someone exciting and inspiring who can keep up with my adventurous spirit, but also provide me stability and safety.
Have you ever had a secret relationship? Yes, I’ve had relationships that were kept out of the public eye. Managing a relationship is hard enough privately, and the added stress of public scrutiny can complicate things even more, especially with public figures. Most of my relationships over the past few years have been kept off social media. It has helped preserve them.
Have you ever had a relationship go wrong because of social media? I have. Unless I trust and have total clarity in the nature of the relationship, posting someone online can be like advertising them to a really large network. The added scrutiny and opinions can complicate things.
What message do you hope to share with your readers through Playboy Finland? I want to inspire others to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery. By sharing my story and my work, I hope to inspire others to celebrate their individuality. As a multi-faceted woman who is a writer, journalist, wrestling broadcaster, and model, I strive to send the message that you can explore different sides of your personality and express yourself authentically, despite the labels people might try to put on you.
How do you handle the stigma associated with being a Playboy model It’s an opportunity to challenge stereotypes. I use my platform to showcase that women can be sexy, smart, and successful, breaking down outdated notions about what it means to pose for Playboy.
Given your extensive travels and experiences, what cultural differences have you noticed in the perception of Playboy and its models? Each country has its own unique perspective on Playboy models. In some places, it’s seen as a celebration of beauty and confidence, while in others, there are still taboos. I’ve found that regardless of the cultural differences, there’s an appreciation for the empowerment and aesthetics that an iconic brand like Playboy represents.
You’ve mentioned the butterfly as a profound symbol in your journey. Can you tell us more about its significance? The butterfly has always symbolized transformation for me. My first tattoo as a teenager was a butterfly, representing my desire for change and my love for my friend Shifty, who just recently passed away. Recently, butterflies have reappeared in my life, reminding me of the beauty in transformation and rebirth.
What advice would you give your teenage self? I would tell my teenage self not to feel so anxious, lost, or inadequate. I know how stuck and unloved you feel right now, but you’re on a journey of self-discovery. Have faith in your determination, because you’re going to move to Hollywood, make your dreams come true, have the relationships you’ve always wished for, and work in the jobs you’ve fantasized about. The amazing life that seems impossible now will become your reality. Hold on to hope and believe in your potential, because the journey ahead, though challenging, will lead you to an incredibly fulfilling life.