Maria Fontes

Cool Girl of the Month is Bird&Bear's award program highlighting young women making a real impact in their communities and beyond. We're thrilled to introduce Maria Fontes, a Brazilian entrepreneur, creative operator, and wellness advocate who is building a life centered around intention, creativity, and connection.

Maria has lived in seven major cities around the world, from Sao Paulo to New York City. Each place brought its own challenges and lessons, helping her grow into the grounded and passionate person she is today.

Moving has taught Maria how to adapt, stay open, and find home within herself. Whether in a tight-knit town or a sprawling metropolis, she has learned the importance of community. "Change is going to come no matter what, even if you're in the same place every day. You will have moments of being alone and moments of connection, but keep going. You will find yourself and your people."

In her early days living in LA, Maria joined a Muay Thai gym and began a rigid wellness routine. While the structure brought discipline, she soon realized that a hyper-controlled lifestyle was not sustainable. It took time, healing, and reflection, but eventually, she found a more balanced approach. She discovered that wellness was deeply individual and that feeling good—mentally and physically—was more important than how she looked. Through Muay Thai, she also found community and support, which helped her build healthy habits and a more compassionate relationship with herself.

Maria’s wellness philosophy is grounded in consistency, discipline, and self-awareness. “Whether you’re interested in wellness or not, being healthy is everything,” she says. She believes in the power of sleep, movement, and allowing space for change. "Everything I do is so that I can feel good."

As Maria’s wellness journey deepened, so did her personal confidence. Influenced by her upbringing in Sao Paulo, her artistic family, and icons like Tupac, she began to define her own style. Even while working with celebrities and creatives who shape what’s considered "cool," she remains authentic. Her confidence comes from within and is shaped by her experiences, roots, and self-discovery.

Maria credits much of her foundation to her mom. "I wouldn’t be half the person I am if it weren’t for her," she says. Her mom’s balance of nourishing meals, open conversations, and unshakable support has been a guiding force in her life. Though not all relationships with parents are easy, Maria emphasizes the importance of appreciating their influence and wisdom.

Professionally, Maria has built an impressive career in entertainment. She started at EDGLRD, a company founded by Harmony Korine, as the only marketing intern fresh out of school. Without a manager at first, she navigated the fast-paced, experimental world on her own. Over time, she grew into a project manager and now works in commercial operations. She creates decks and pitches, helps manage projects, delivers content, and participates in strategic calls.

Her passion for the entertainment industry lies in its cultural impact. "Working in the entertainment industry means being a part of what moves culture and changes society," Maria explains. Her work allows her to blend creativity, communication, and structure in a way that feels meaningful.

Despite the challenges of fast-paced environments and career growth, Maria’s perspective is shaped by gratitude. She’s thankful for EDGLRD’s trust and the wide range of experiences she’s had there. It’s helped her explore new paths and refine what she wants for her future.

Maria is a cultural connector and creative operator, balancing personal values with professional ambition. She continues to prioritize her wellness, express her creativity, and support others on similar paths.

Follow Maria on Instagram: @ma.fontez