Gabriela Dias plays many parts both on and off screen. The Brazilian-born actress and model has made a name for herself as a businesswoman and fashion designer and also works with AltaMed, an organisation that assists underserved communities in California.

The 33-year-old has even more up her sleeve. Her feature film, Burguesinha, is due for release next year and this weekend she will marry fiancé Todd Trimmer.

Lifestyle caught up with her as she prepares to say “I do”.

Of all the beautiful places in the world, why did you choose Bermuda for your wedding?

I fell in love with Bermuda when my fiancé and I vacationed here. The people are always kind and welcoming. The natural beauty of the island gives me such peace, I knew this was the perfect place for my wedding.

It was very important for my family and friends to come celebrate and have a great time in natural beauty. Bermuda is the perfect place because it is so close to New York with direct flights as well as sophisticated resorts and great food. The entire environment makes me so happy. Love is everywhere!

Can you tell us a bit about the Gabriela Dias Collection?

I started my fashion line five years ago with swimwear because, being Brazilian, I thought I knew best. It was very well received in America. It got featured in Sports Illustrated a few years in a row, and CBS Miami.

I branched out to fine jewellery and cover-ups and we’re now adding some winter stuff.

Then I got involved with Covet Fashion — their spokeswoman is Rachel Zoe. They always have big names like Gabrielle Union, so when they asked me to be involved I was very excited.

I have a new online store. I try to bring in brands that are unique and difficult to find.

I started my brand because, when I moved to LA to focus on acting, I was scared of it not working out, so I decided to develop something on the side and both of my plans kind of worked out alongside each other. I was going on auditions or shooting and then coming home and drawing bikinis. It was very tiring, but exciting.

You wear many hats — model, presenter, actress, businesswoman and humanitarian. Regarding your philanthropic pursuits, can you tell us about the causes closest to your heart?

When I moved to the United States I didn’t know anyone or have any money. I worked as a maid for a while until I became a model and actress.

I am thankful for the opportunities I had and for the people that helped me along the way.

It makes me happy to be able to give back. I am on the board of several charities, but I enjoy the most helping immigrants and children. That is why I decided to support Hoop Tee, AltaMed, St Jude’s Hospital and Women in Action.

You wrote, produced and acted in the upcoming movie Burguesinha. How did you balance those major roles?

I am a very organised and driven person. I am the type of person who does not give up until I get what I want. I believe that is why things work out for me. I don’t let it go until it does.

I spent six months working with Timothy Craig on the script. Then, I started pre-production and I spent another two months working with Pamela Shae casting roles for the movie. Then, I chose my director and crew. I usually make a list of what I have to accomplish with a deadline and I just go for it.

This is the only way you can do so much in a short period successfully.

How did you get into modelling?

I never wanted to be a model. I moved to the US with the hope that I could have a better future for myself. My family was very simple and I was raised by a single mother. I guess they say the “American dream”, right?

When I was growing up, I wanted to be a journalist. When the chance of becoming a model happened, I decided I was going to make the most of this great opportunity.

Where has your career taken you?

I have travelled the world, met amazing people and experienced things I never imagined I could. I love my job and I am very thankful for all I have been able to do.

What are your future goals?

To be a better person, a loving and present mom and wife, a good boss and colleague and I want to continue having the drive to pursue my dreams.

www.diasentertainment.com, www.gabrieladiasshop.com, www.gabrieladias.com