A Love Letter to All Underdogs
(Demi Moore and Fernanda Torres at the Golden Globes. Photo via Selton Mello)
Hi there,
This week, the Golden Globes reminded me of something profound — no matter how accomplished someone is, at some point, we all feel like underdogs.
Fernanda Torres’s win wasn’t just a personal victory; it felt like a collective triumph for Brazilians who often feel overshadowed on the global stage. Her success was a moment to celebrate, to believe in what’s possible. Then there was Demi Moore, reflecting on a 45-year career, admitting in her acceptance speech that she was once dismissed as a “popcorn actress.” She never thought she’d be allowed to hold an award, let alone be recognized in that way. That moment hit home for me.
As the granddaughter of Japanese Brazilian immigrants, I’ve been an outsider and an underdog since birth - even with the privileges I’ve had. Never quite Brazilian enough in Brazil. Never Japanese enough for Japan. And now, living in the U.S., never fully American. Along the way, I’ve been labeled plenty of things by people who assumed I couldn’t be or do certain things.
Women, especially, carry these stories. Without external markers like promotions, awards, or recognition, it can be easy to listen to those voices and doubt ourselves—to wonder if we’re capable or if we truly belong when the world so often suggests otherwise (especially if you are a person of color). But here’s the truth: The only thing separating us from anyone else is how we see ourselves. Labels only have the power we give them.
So, let’s hold on to this — everyone feels like an outsider sometimes, but we belong anywhere we wish to be. And while the world may still have powerful gatekeepers, some doors only look closed. If we’re bold enough to try the handle, we just might find they’re unlocked and ready to be opened.
Sending lot of love,
Patricia
PS1: Cheers to all the women making history this awards season: Nikki Glaser as the first solo woman presenter in the Golden Globes' history, Fernanda Torres for being the first Brazilian to win Best Actress in a Motion Picture-Drama, Zoe Saldanha for becoming the first Dominican-American to be nominated and win Best Supporting Acctress in Motion Picture award, Anna Sawai for being the first Asian woman to win Best Actress in a TV Series - Drama, Ali Wong for becoming the first woman to win Best Stand-up Comedy performance for her Netflix special Single Lady, and Karla Sofía Gascón as the first openly Transgender Actress nominated for a Golden Globe for her role in Emilia Pérez, and Demi Moore for her first acting award, the Golden Globe for Actress in a Comedy or Musical. 👏
PS1: As I wrote last week, our store is closed for the winter, and we will permanently close our doors on January 15th. WE ARE OPENING THE SHOP THIS SATURDAY JANUARY 11TH AND SUNDAY JANUARY 12TH FOR A BIG SALE, SO IF YOU ARE IN THE HAMPTONS, DON'T MISS THIS! COME BY TO SAY HI EITHER WAY, I WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU ONE LAST TIME AT THE SHOP.
In the meantime, I am working on some very interesting interviews, and will share those in time, so stay tuned for that 😉
Products with a * means that they are not women and LGBTQI+ owned, or that we have not been able to verify if they are LGBTQI+ owned before sending out this newsletter. A sponsored or paid partnership section is marked with a §
All of the linked products are independently selected and curated by Matriark and our team. We may earn a commission If you buy something from our links.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this newsletter is for general informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider for all questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something mentioned in this newsletter. Matriark’s Founder and employees are not medical professionals, and any opinions or views expressed should not be construed as medical advice. Reliance on any information provided in this newsletter is solely at your own risk. Matriark and any of its affiliated parties shall not be liable for any errors or omissions in the information provided or for any actions taken based on the information shared. It is strongly advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for individualized advice and guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Matriark ® All rights reserved 2025