Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Eugene Bernard. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Eugene thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The most meaningful projects for me are those in which I can utilize my talents to assist or advocate for others.
Whether I’m on stage performing, embodying a character as an actor, participating in a body positivity photoshoot, or actively involved in the community, aiding someone to meet their needs, I am either narrating or shaping someone’s narrative.
One of the most significant projects I’ve been involved in recently is the establishment of the first-ever Basic Needs Center at a local university. This center specializes in connecting students to essential services such as housing, food, transportation, funding, and other emergency assistance while they attend college. I inaugurated the center in March 2023, recruited and trained staff, formulated processes and programs to aid students in need. Over the past year, the center has assisted nearly 800 students, facilitated 28,000 visits to its food market, and distributed almost 200,000 pounds of food to students and families in need. All services are provided free of charge thanks to grant funding and a partnerships through organizations like the Houston Food Bank.
It’s astonishing how many people find themselves in unimaginable life circumstances while pursuing an education. Being able to cultivate a community of care to support them through their journey is an immensely gratifying blessing.
Eugene, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
The backstory is that I am fortunate to have built two careers simultaneously over the last 20 years. My career in Higher Education focuses on developing solution-based resources and support services for college students while my career in the entertainment industry involves representing individuals with larger body types as a big and tall model and actor, promoting diversity and inclusivity in mainstream media and culture.
In the Higher Education world, I collaborate with various campus and community partners to provide tailored student experiences and have established departments that were pioneering at large colleges and universities in the Houston area. In addition to the story I shared regarding the recent development of the Basic Needs Center, In 2012 I established the first-ever Centers of Excellence for Veteran Success and supervised all three centers across three campuses as the district manager. I have served thousands of veterans and their families, connecting them to valuable community resources, certifying their enrollment, and aiding them in persisting through their collegiate journey to graduation. Re-integrating into civilian life as a college student can be challenging, and the center is there to assist.
Additionally, I serve as a college preparatory faculty member for first-time-in-college students, helping them build a solid foundation for their future as they embark on their collegiate journey in higher education.
Being a big and tall model and actor involves representing individuals with larger body types in the fashion and entertainment industries. Everything about me is above average, from my height and stance to my personality. I do not conform to traditional standards, and I love that I am able to promote diversity and inclusivity in these industries. By challenging societal norms and stereotypes, I aim to promote body positivity and inclusivity in mainstream media and culture.
I have appeared in 10 film and television projects and 5 stage projects and a number of body positivity photo campaigns with So Classic Gents, National Curves Day and more.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Born into a single-parent household, I defied the odds and embraced resilience as my guiding force. Despite the challenges, I recognized the vast potential within me, driving an unyielding determination to surpass mere existence. Beyond the pursuit of material wealth, my ambition was fueled by a profound desire to enrich lives and leave an indelible mark on the world. This relentless pursuit led me to diverse paths as an educator, big and tall model, and influencer. Through each endeavor, I strive to exhaust every ounce of my being, leaving nothing undone. My journey is not solely about personal success, but about leveraging my gifts and talents to uplift others. Whether through community service, inspiring narratives, or transformative performances, I am committed to emptying myself into the world, ensuring that my presence leaves a legacy of empowerment and positive change
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
In reflecting on my journey, one realization looms large: the importance of mastering the art of monetizing my passions and talents. While my endeavors have brought fulfillment, I now recognize the missed opportunity in not harnessing them into a self-sustaining business earlier. As I pivot towards this entrepreneurial mindset, I’m struck by the power and autonomy it grants. I no longer want to be at the mercy of external industries, but rather, I be the architect of my own destiny. I wish I had known sooner how to seamlessly transform my work into a thriving enterprise, one where I am both the creator and the captain. Nevertheless, this newfound perspective fuels my determination to not only elevate my craft but also to establish it as a sustainable and prosperous business that I oversee with unwavering dedication and vision.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ugnb
- Facebook: Ugn Brnrd
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugene-bernard-m-a-aa1325b8/
- Youtube: @ugnb3745