Meet Eugene Bernard

We recently connected with Eugene Bernard and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Eugene, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

Developing confidence and self-esteem as a big and tall model and Cultural Curator has been a transformative journey. My diverse expertise spans various fields, shaping culture and style through education, media, and fashion.

Embracing my unique qualities and learning to trust myself were essential steps in this journey, especially since I didn’t know anyone growing up who was pursuing the same path. Over time, I realized that the traits that set me apart were actually my greatest assets.

Mentors and collaborative partnerships have been crucial, providing encouragement and constructive feedback that helped me navigate challenges and build self-worth. Investing in professional growth, from refining my modeling skills to enhancing my social media presence, has also boosted my confidence. Each goal I achieved, no matter how small, reinforced my belief in my abilities and strengthened my self-esteem.

Personal branding has played a key role, allowing me to create an image that reflects my values and style. Aligning my public persona with my authentic self has bolstered my confidence and self-worth. Engaging with my audience and building genuine connections has further validated and increased my self-esteem.

Ultimately, trusting my instincts and making decisions that align with my true self has been crucial. I focus on the present and make choices without regret. Since nobody lives my life but me, I rely on prayer and consult God before pursuing my goals.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

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.

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 11 film and television projects and 6 stage projects and a number of body positivity photo campaigns with So Classic Gents, National Curves Day and more.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

1. Resilience and Adaptability and unshakable faith: My ability to overcome personal and professional challenges, has been crucial. I worked three jobs and completed three degrees, debt free. While attending college, I purchased my first home at the age of 21. Resilience allowed me to defy the odds and excel in two diverse careers—Higher Education and entertainment. This adaptability has enabled me to navigate both fields successfully, balancing the demands of each while making significant contributions as a dedicated husband and father. All of these accomplishments have been a testament to what I call “crazy faith”. Again, I prayerfully consult God about my plans and move forward in faith until the goal is accomplished.

2. Innovative Problem-Solving: In Higher Education, my role in developing pioneering resources and support services, such as the Centers of Excellence for Veteran Success, showcases my talent for creating innovative solutions. My ability to establish and manage impactful programs that address complex needs reflects a deep understanding of both strategic planning and execution. This skill has also translated into my work in the entertainment industry, where I challenge traditional norms and promote diversity and inclusivity.

3. Entrepreneurial Mindset: Realizing the importance of monetizing my passions and transforming them into a self-sustaining business highlights a critical skill for long-term success. I believe as we pivot towards this mindset, it reinforces our ability to innovate, lead, and create opportunities on our own terms.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my mother did for me was to teach me the profound importance of kindness and how to deeply connect with my faith. Her unwavering kindness has been a guiding light throughout my life. From an early age, I observed how she treated everyone with compassion and respect, regardless of their circumstances. This consistent example of empathy and generosity shaped my own approach to relationships and interactions, encouraging me to extend the same kindness to others because we never know where life will take us.

Moreover, my mother played a pivotal role in introducing me to the significance of faith in navigating life’s challenges. She didn’t just teach me about faith; she modeled it through her actions and daily life. Her steadfast belief and the way she leaned on her faith during difficult times demonstrated its power to provide strength and clarity. This spiritual foundation has been a source of comfort and guidance for me, helping me to trust in a higher purpose and to find resilience in moments of uncertainty.

In essence, my mother’s kindness has influenced how I approach others, fostering a sense of compassion and understanding in my interactions. Her example of faith has given me a framework for navigating life’s trials with a sense of hope and purpose. These lessons have profoundly shaped who I am, both personally and professionally, and have been instrumental in guiding my journey.

It costs us nothing to be kind to others.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ugnb
• Facebook: Ugn Brnrd
• Linkedin: eugene-bernard
• Youtube: @ugnb3745

Image Credits

Jamaal Lathan Photography
The Lennz
National Curves Day
So Classic Gents XL
Ugn B.