Brazilian nurse and samba dancer Vanessa Cortês combines healthcare, fitness, and Brazilian culture while building her life in Los Angeles. Passionate about dance, wellness, and personal growth, she inspires women to embrace confidence, independence, and a healthy lifestyle.
By Laís Oliveira | English Edition: Ann Fain
Vanessa Cortês transformed her childhood dream of samba into a professional career in California.
The beautiful “Mineirinha” Vanessa Cortês grew up passionate about dance and deeply inspired by Brazil’s vibrant Carnival culture.
As a child, she admired the famous Samba Schools performing in Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Sapucaí Sambadrome, dreaming of one day becoming a “passista” — the samba dancer who represents the school in the middle of the parade.
That dream eventually became reality.
Today, Vanessa works as a professional samba dancer on weekends in Southern California, combining Brazilian culture, rhythm, and performance with her professional career in healthcare.
Building a Career in Nursing and Cosmetic Recovery
Vanessa began her nursing career working in operating rooms and post-anesthesia care units.
Over time, she specialized in the growing cosmetic and aesthetic field and now works as a recovery nurse for cosmetic surgery patients.
Her long-term professional goals include learning more about:
- Cosmetic procedures
- Injectables such as Botox
- Plastic surgery recovery
- The expanding aesthetics industry
Despite her demanding schedule, Vanessa continues investing in her dancing skills and personal development.
“I want to become a better dancer every day.”
Fitness as a Lifestyle
The activity that helps Vanessa stay healthy and in shape is weight training and weight lifting.
Living in Los Angeles, the 5’6” Gemini says fitness has become much more than a routine — it is now part of her lifestyle.
“I love going to the gym and learning new training techniques.”
Rather than following strict diets, Vanessa prefers balance and practical healthy habits. She enjoys preparing lighter, protein-rich versions of traditional foods, including recipes like tuna burgers with oatmeal.
Her philosophy centers on sustainability instead of extreme restrictions.
Confidence, Independence and Personal Growth
After experiencing a few long-term relationships and becoming a mother to one daughter, Vanessa decided to take time for herself and focus on personal growth.
At the time of the interview, she was single and embracing independence with maturity and confidence.
“Girls sometimes need to have their time, have fun and enjoy life and not necessarily have a man by their side.”
For future relationships, Vanessa says she values:
- Confidence
- Positivity
- Emotional support
- Motivation and partnership
She hopes to find someone who encourages her ambitions rather than limiting her personal evolution.
Living Life Her Own Way
Vanessa believes life should be lived authentically, with courage and purpose.
Her personal motto perfectly summarizes her mindset:
“Don’t waste time. Do what you love and live life your way.”
Through nursing, dance, fitness, and self-development, Vanessa Cortês continues building a balanced life rooted in passion, discipline, and Brazilian energy.
Quick Profile: Vanessa Cortês
- Born in: Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Living in: Los Angeles, California
- Profession: Nurse and Professional Samba Dancer
- Specialty: Cosmetic Surgery Recovery
- Fitness Activities: Weight Training and Weight Lifting
- Favorite Healthy Habit: Creating simple fit recipes
- Passion: Samba and Brazilian Carnival culture
- Relationship Philosophy: Independence, confidence and mutual support
- Motto: “Do what you love and live life your way.”
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Vanessa Cortês?
Vanessa Cortês is a Brazilian nurse, fitness enthusiast, and professional samba dancer currently living in Los Angeles.
2. What does Vanessa Cortês do professionally?
She works as a recovery nurse specializing in cosmetic surgery patients and also performs as a samba dancer in Southern California.
3. How does Vanessa Cortês stay in shape?
She maintains her fitness through weight training, weight lifting, and balanced eating habits.
4. What are Vanessa Cortês’ career goals?
She wants to continue learning about cosmetic procedures, injectables like Botox, and plastic surgery recovery.
5. What is Vanessa Cortês’ life philosophy?
Vanessa believes in independence, self-growth, positivity, and living life authentically.
