Bertini Heumegni, CEO & Founder Mr. Africa USA
www.bertinih.com
Bertini Heumegni was born in Douala, Republic of Cameroon. At the age of 10, his mother died and life growing up was difficult. Despite the obstacles he faced, he grasped life with all he had, becoming a professional model, an accomplished actor, and a “15 Minute of Fame” TV celebrity. Education was the ultimate way for him to achieve his goals and dreams. Heumegni finished high school despite many challenges and went on to gain a degree in Marketing from the University of Lagos, where he co-founded a campus boys band with actor Ramsey NoAHC of Nollywood (Nigerian “Hollywood”). Heumegni toured the world landing in places such as Zimbabwe and South Africa. It was in South Africa where he was discovered and began working in the world of fashion. Heumegni became one of the Century Male Top Model and named as one of the top ten African Sexy Men in 2010.
Coming to America...
Growing up in Africa, Heumegni always dreamed of coming to the United States of America. Now residing in New York City he has made a name for himself. He has appeared on the American television show “AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL,” in which he was featured in a photo shoot with the competing models on the show. Heumegni is multitalented and always wants more out of life, he put his talents to good use founding Camerlywood Productions. The production company develops actors, produces movies, and promotes Cameroonian culture. The first Camerlywood production American Dream, which Heumegni produced, directed and stared in, presents topics such as drugs, sex, love, betrayal and the road to redemption. American Dream was nominated for awards at the 2011 Nollywood African Film Critics Awards and the 2012 Cameroon Entertainment Awards. Heumegni hopes that Camerlywood Productions will instill pride in Cameroonians around the world and provide opportunities for actors and models to realize their dreams as he did. Heumegni is also an entrepreneur. He created The BH Collection, a men's underwear line.
Fabo Foundation
Heumegni is the co-founder of Fabo Foundation of the Deaf. Heumegni's brother, Fabo, is deaf and is a talented athlete. The Fabo Foundation works to assist deaf children and young adults achieve their dreams through education and sportsmanship. Heumegni founded the Mister Africa USA Pageant to support the work of the Fabo Foundation. Proceeds from the pageant will go to the foundation and the African Hope Committee. The Mister Africa USA Pageant will celebrate the talents and commitment to community service of several African men living in the US. Just as Heumegni as tackled life challenges to become an accomplished actor, model and community organizer, it is important to encourage the same tenacity in African men all over the world and honor those who make a difference.
