Simone Sampaio, who served as the drum queen for the Dragões da Real samba school from 2012 to 2021, has taken on the prestigious role of godmother of the Velha Guarda de São Paulo, a revered group composed of veteran members of the samba community. She expressed her deep connection to the position, stating that "being a godmother of the Velha Guarda of São Paulo is accepting a call from time, memory, and ancestry." This appointment is significant as it ties her to a legacy of samba practitioners who have shaped the rich cultural heritage of São Paulo's carnival.

The Velha Guarda, which translates to 'Old Guard', consists of long-standing members from various samba schools in São Paulo, including composers, musicians, and community figures who have contributed to the samba culture over the years. By stepping into this role, Sampaio not only honors this diverse group but also highlights the importance of continuity in the samba tradition—acknowledging that samba is not an end product but rather a living, evolving art form that is built upon generations of contributions.

Sampaio will make her debut with the Velha Guarda during the Special Group parades on Friday, opening the festivities with a strong statement of her commitment. Her mentorship by the older generation of samba practitioners underscores her belief that to truly understand and appreciate samba, it is imperative to recognize the efforts of those who have nurtured it. This role could potentially enrich her influence within the carnival scene and reinforce the community bonds that are essential to the success and vibrancy of samba culture in São Paulo.