Our Team
Paula Bezerra de Mello
Founder and CEO
Paula Bezerra de Mello grew up immersed in the international social circuit — an upbringing that shaped her cosmopolitan worldview and an instinctive ability to forge high-level strategic connections. Over the years, she has built a rare global network that transcends borders, linking influential figures across entertainment, culture, and the luxury market. As founder and CEO of Ello Agency, she channels these relationships into opportunities that are as meaningful as they are enduring.
Since the opening of Fasano Hotel Rio de Janeiro in 2007, where she is a shareholder and partner, Paula has overseen its public relations, helping cement its status as a global icon of luxury and lifestyle. She is also a columnist at Forbes Brasil, writing on culture, branding, luxury, and social impact.
A member of BrazilFoundation’s advisory board for a decade, she will serve as Chair of the organization’s milestone 25th Anniversary Gala at The Plaza in New York this September. In 2016, during the Olympic Games, Paula conceived #TeamRio — a movement that brought together global personalities, Olympic athletes, and Hollywood actors to champion social causes in Rio, all supported by BrazilFoundation.
Under her leadership, Ello has gained international recognition for bold, culture-shaping campaigns such as “Kiss the Kremlin” — a powerful statement against homophobia in Russia that reached over 57 million people and earned five Lions at the Cannes Lions Festival (three Silver, two Bronze).
Previously, Paula was a founding partner of Costa Brazil, the sustainable skincare brand created by Francisco Costa. For its U.S. launch, she secured one-third of the initial investment, built the operational structure, and led strategic partnerships — including with Conservation International and the Fasano Hotels. When the brand was acquired by Amyris in 2021, she was appointed Chief Brand Activist for the holding company.
With a truly global repertoire, cultural fluency, and an unparalleled network, Paula Bezerra de Mello transforms connection into influence — and influence into impact.
Mariana Bokel
Partner and COO
Previously, she led marketing and operations at Grupo Salta Educação and Escola Eleva, helping cement the school’s reputation as one of Brazil’s most prestigious institutions. She uses strategy to build brands through storytelling with purpose — connecting business goals to cultural meaning and human insight.