She shared about the start of her modeling career on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Raquel once inspired to be an Olympic beach volleyball star just like one of her favorite sport figures. A poorly executed dig caused a shoulder injury that ended those dreams. Her personality, face and body landed her easily into a modeling career. One which turned out to give her more fame and fortune than she might have ever seen in her initial career choice.

“You can never plan where your life will take you.” she stated quoting her grandmother who partially raised her. She was the oldest of 4 kids born to her single mother. Her mother died at the hands of her boyfriend in a jealous tirade.  Her father drank too much to take care of them. At the age of 12 she found herself as the head of household. She ended up living with her elderly grandmother who often left her responsible for the care of her younger siblings. She hustled whatever she could, including at times her body, to support her family. Fortunately, her modeling career started early allowing her to bring her family out of poverty and more importantly her off the streets. She quickly became of the most sought after models and by the time she was 24 she reached the status of supermodel.

Somehow, despite her hard upbringing she did not seem to harbor any anger. A fiery temper was hers to go along with her showy personality. She considered herself bisexual although she actually preferred women. She had no desire to be tied down to anyone. She, like Helena, was committed to furthering her career and caring for family only. “Great, no strings” thought Helena as Raquel rambled on.

As she spoke it was clear that she was passionate about whatever she did. Her wavy brunette hair with light brown highlights contrasted with light green eyes. At 5 foot, 11 inch she stood taller than Helena. She had curves that were kicking and the classical Brazilian butt. She was athletic, lean and definitely did not have the ill, waif-like look that plagued some of her contemporaries.

They arrived at Helena’s restaurant Buzz on Malibu beach. As they pulled up to the valet, Helena asked Raquel, “Are you hungry?” Raquel quickly responded, “Yes, I am starving. I think all I have only had fruit and water all day. They barely feed us when we are doing all these shoots. Papi told us about your place. She brought us to the restaurant to get something to eat and what do you know…” She paused as she looked Helena up and down, “I found something to eat.”