At Just BGRAPHIC, we believe digital arts and its many forms have the power to ignite creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills in students. Today, we want to shine a spotlight on Bernard Mafei: our passionate Program Developer for Digital Arts & Media and the driving force behind our new transformative programs.
A Legacy in Gaming and Esports
With over 15 years of experience in Canada’s esports industry, Bernard Mafei is no stranger to the world of competitive gaming. He started his journey as a competitive player, rising to become the #1 player in Canada and #51 in world for the game Super Smash Bros. Melee. He transitioned seamlessly into roles as coach and event organizer as well, and through them began actively contributing to the growth of the gaming communities that raised him. His influence soon reached the media landscape, where he appeared as both guest and co-host in collaborations with Vice, Cineplex, BBC Radio, Red Bull, and Superchannel1. There was now a broader audience interested in his insights, enthusiasm, and experiences – but Bernard’s journey was just beginning.
A Vision for Education and Innovation
After graduating from Canada’s first esports diploma program, Bernard was equipped with the knowledge and skills to translate his vast gaming experience to other industries. His journey took an exciting turn when he partnered with Epic Games, a leading video game developer (and maker of Fornite), to deliver interactive 3D workshops to K-12 educators across North America.
Through this work, Bernard discovered his true passion: leveraging digital media to inspire and educate youth. He realized that immersive programs such as Unreal Engine, Twinmotion, and Fortnite Creative held the key to unlocking new forms of engagement for students and could equip them with a wide range of career-ready skills.
Bernard now serves as the Senior Administrator for Esports at Humber College – the largest college in Canada. He is also the first African-Canadian in the country to ever occupy such a role.
Bernard’s impact extends beyond the gaming world. He has actively designed and delivered professional development workshops that showcase the value of Epic Games’ products, including Unreal Engine and Fortnite Creative, as essential tools within students’ curricula. These workshops empower the next generation with career-defining skills through immersive and creative learning experiences.
Joining Just BGRAPHIC: A New Chapter
We are proud to announce Bernard’s commitment to the Just BGRAPHIC team as the Program Developer for Digital Arts & Media. His wealth of experience, passion for education, and commitment to fostering innovation make him the perfect fit for our mission.
Are you ready to join us on this exciting journey towards education, innovation, and community building? Together, we can inspire the next generation by unlocking opportunity, empowering students, and shaping a brighter future where creativity knows no bounds.
