Owner and creative director of Brazil Born.
Owner and creative director of Brazil Born.
Isabella Araujo is the powerhouse behind Brazil Born, a brand that blends Brazilian beach vibes with activewear that’s as stylish as it is sustainable. Originally from Brazil, Isabella moved to Australia in 2013, on a mission to find the perfect bikini. When she couldn’t, she created her own! With a mix of samba, sunshine, and a love for the ocean, Isabella launched Brazil Born to bring the vibrant energy of Brazilian swimwear to Australia.
A former lawyer turned entrepreneur, she’s fueled by coffee, creativity, and passion. Whether she’s practicing yoga, hiking, or enjoying the Gold Coast beaches, Isabella designs with one goal: to make women feel confident, free, and ready for adventure.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I moved to the Gold Coast from Melbourne at the end of 2021. Originally from Brazil, I’ve proudly called Australia home for over 11 years.
What do you love most about the Gold Coast?
While the weather is undeniably amazing, what I love most is what it brings out in people. People are happy, in a good and friendly mood. The lifestyle here is incredible. We’re encouraged to enjoy the day, be healthy, and stay active.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born in Brazil with an Italian and Portuguese background. So you could say I’ve got a mix of samba and pasta running through my veins. I am a former lawyer (since 2004) and came to Australia for the first time in 2013. The beach and ocean have always been my happy place—they’re where I feel most alive. Anything that connects me to them fills my soul. For me, staying active and surrounded by nature isn’t just a preference; it’s the secret to staying grounded and inspired.
Although I’m a country girl at heart, I lived my dream life in Balneário Camboriú, Brazil, where office hours ended with windsurfing and paddleboarding sessions in the ocean. These days, I’m lucky enough to call the Gold Coast home, where I’ve crafted a lifestyle that feels just as magical. Staying active is a big part of who I am, whether it’s yoga, pilates, hiking, or pretending I know what I’m doing at the gym. I believe in feeling comfortable and looking great while working out or enjoying the beach. That’s part of what inspires me to design swimwear and activewear for Brazil Born. It’s my baby and my passion—honestly, it doesn’t even feel like work (most of the time).
Tell us a bit about Brazil Born.
Back in 2013, while living in Melbourne, I found myself on a mission—I couldn’t find bikinis with that iconic Brazilian cut I loved. Fast forward to 2018, now living permanently in Australia, after countless hours of research (and a little trial and error), I returned from a trip to Brazil with extra bikinis stuffed into my suitcase. I started sharing them with friends at my gym, and before I knew it, demand was soaring.
It wasn’t long before I expanded into Brazilian activewear, and that’s how Brazil Born came to life. It’s been an incredible journey full of growth, creativity, and endless passion. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a single thing—it’s been worth every step.
How is your range different from other brands?
Brazil Born is all about bringing the vibrant energy and unparalleled style of Brazilian swimwear and activewear to Australia. Our pieces are thoughtfully crafted with a focus on quality, sustainability, and ethics—because looking amazing shouldn’t come at a cost to the planet or its people.
What sets us apart is the heart behind every design. We’ve built great relationships with talented Brazilian suppliers, ensuring that every piece reflects the authenticity and craftsmanship Brazil is known for. Over the years, we’ve also started designing exclusive collections locally, blending that unmistakable Brazilian flair with the laid-back, sun-kissed vibe of the Gold Coast.
At Brazil Born, we don’t just create swimwear and activewear; we create confidence. Our mission is to help you feel your absolute best—whether you’re chasing waves, hitting the gym, practicing yoga, or simply soaking up the sunshine.
What has been the biggest opportunity and/or challenge so far in launching Brazil Born?
The biggest opportunity was starting the business as an online store in 2018 and maintaining our online presence and customers.
In 2020, we opened a permanent physical store in Sorrento, VIC, which had to close for over seven months due to lockdowns. Having already established an online business kept us afloat during that challenging time.
The biggest challenge has been balancing the need for both online and physical presence. Deciding between online and in-person presence. I loved having a store—it’s hard to beat chatting with customers face-to-face—but online has its own magic too.
What is the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?
Building a business isn’t about rushing to the finish line—it’s about growing thoughtfully and sustainably, taking one step at a time.
Every move you make, no matter how small, plays a vital role in the bigger picture. Embrace each moment, celebrate the progress, and always remind yourself why you started. Remember, the process is just as valuable as the destination. Enjoy every step of the ride.
What can we expect from Brazil Born in the next year?
In 2025, we’re all about growth and expansion. Our goal is to collaborate with brilliant, creative minds who share our passion for artistic expression. We’re excited to bring fresh perspectives to the table and build something truly special together.
Expect to see bold new collections that draw inspiration from art, passion, and pure creativity—because we believe fashion should be an expression of who you are and the world around you.
What are your Gold Coast favourites?
Café: Commune Café, Paddock Bakery, and Pasture & Co.
Restaurant: Rabbath Lebanese Bistro, Siblings, and Tommy’s.
Bar: Rosella’s and The Exhibitionist.
Beach: Burleigh and Rainbow Bay.
How do you choose to spend your days off?
On my days off, you’ll always catch me in Brazil Born pieces (of course!). Whether I’m at the beach, doing yoga, hiking, or chasing waterfalls in the hinterland, I’m all about soaking up the natural beauty of the Gold Coast.