Emilio Dutra

August 29 marks a milestone for Sutherland Models newest face Emilio Dutra. Four years ago at the age of 18 Emilio’s life changed when after a tragic boating accident he lost both his leg and his hand, and came very close to also losing his life.

Being at his lowest allowed Emilio the opportunity to decide that he was not going to let the outcome of the accident get him down and that, in his own words he would have to “bounce back”. Bouncing back meant enduring multiple surgeries, adjusting to wearing a prosthesis, and experiencing more pain than was imaginable.

Taking inspiration from his family and their unwavering support he has turned around his future with an incredibly positive attitude and an enormous amount of hard work. Now 22 and completing his post-secondary studies, Emilio hopes that modeling will give him the opportunity to become a role model for others who are differently abled.