One to Watch: Spotlight on Aida Bernal, President of Spellbound Entertainment

Aida Bernal, Spellbound Entertainment

Aida Bernal, Spellbound Entertainment

Meet Aida Bernal –  of Mexican descent, born and raised in Los Angeles and grew up working at her parents Mexican imports store, “Casa Bernal” located on historic Olvera Street. Working at the store gave Aida a sense of pride about her Mexican culture.

“Being at the store connected me to my culture in a very deep way. I spoke Spanish consistently and my parents had a rule: No English at home – only at school, outside and with friends. We had to speak Spanish at home so we wouldn’t forget it.”

Inspired by her parents’ ambition Aida worked hard securing various jobs in the entertainment industry which further motivated her to start her own business.

In the 90’s, Aida worked as a junior manager for Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit management but it wasn’t until she began a seven-year tenure at Jennifer Lopez’ Nuyorican Productions that her career path would really take shape.

“Working for Jennifer was incredible in so many ways but the key thing was that it pushed my work ethic to a whole new level,” said Aida.

As the VP of Film & Television development for Nuyorican, Aida supervised a heavy slate of projects including the mini-series “Como Ama Una Mujer” which she produced. This Univision/Nuyorican co-production was shot entirely in Spanish and boasted some of the best acting talent in Mexico.

Aida Bernal with Mexican Actress Gabriela de la Garza

Aida Bernal with Mexican Actress Gabriela de la Garza

Aida immediately recognized that the U.S still had a lot of catching up to do when it came to International Mexican actors.

“It’s important that we have the industry’s attention and it’s wonderful when there is momentum. I’m so excited that Demian Bichir may be nominated for an academy award [for “A Better Life“] – it would be so well deserved. I do think that a lot of amazing Mexican talent still falls under the radar and I want to do something about that.”

Passionate for both producing and managing, Aida launched her company Spellbound Entertainment in 2011. “I want to rep the best talent no matter where they’re from, but having filmed in Mexico it felt right that I should there look first.”

For more information on Spellbound Entertainment or Aida Bernal, visit: www.spellboundentertainment.net.

Susie Albin-Najera on FacebookSusie Albin-Najera on InstagramSusie Albin-Najera on LinkedinSusie Albin-Najera on TwitterSusie Albin-Najera on Youtube
Susie Albin-Najera
Susie Albin-Najera is the creator and editor of The Mexico Report, an award winning travel blog showcasing news, deals and resources for the modern traveler. Najera is a writer, author, travel blogger, marketing and public relations specialist and producer. Najera serves on the host committee for Maestro Cares, founded by singer Marc Anthony and producer Henry Cardenas; and on the advisory board for Corazon de Vida, providing aid to children in Mexico. She is also the creator of 'The Real Heroes of Mexico' showcasing community heroes in Mexico and producer of Latino Thought Makers. Najera has been recognized by the Mexican Consulate and Mexico Tourism Board for fostering positive relations between countries and her dedication to showcasing Mexico as a premiere destination. She can be reached at info@themexicoreport.com

1 comment for “One to Watch: Spotlight on Aida Bernal, President of Spellbound Entertainment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.