Is it possible to build an empire on curves and controversy? For Bernice Burgos, the answer appears to be a resounding yes, as she's transformed a life rooted in the Bronx into a multifaceted career powered by a captivating online presence and a willingness to speak her truth.
Born on April 17, 1980, in the Bronx, New York, Burgos' story is one of resilience and reinvention. From humble beginnings as a bartender and waitress, she navigated the complexities of motherhood at a young age, raising her daughter, Ashley, while chasing her dreams in the competitive world of modeling. A chance encounter at a hair salon, where she overheard a conversation about the modeling industry, sparked a pivotal moment. Asking for an agent's number, Burgos set her sights on a new path, and this single step set in motion a remarkable journey.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bernice Burgos |
| Date of Birth | April 17, 1980 (or March 17, 1980 - some discrepancy exists) |
| Place of Birth | Bronx, New York, USA |
| Age (as of 2023) | 43 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Puerto Rican descent (Latina) |
| Known for | Urban Model, Entrepreneur, Social Media Influencer |
| Children | Ashley Burgos, Amarie Burgos, Sarai (father unidentified) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Career Beginnings | Bartender/Waitress |
| Modeling Career Start | Around age 27 |
| Social Media Presence | Instagram (over 3.6 million followers) |
| Plastic Surgery | Admitted to breast and hip augmentations, butt enhancements. |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
| Mother's Name | Aleida Santiago Baggio |
| Notable Relationships (Rumored) | Drake, T.I. |
| Reference | Bernice Burgos' Instagram |
The journey hasnt been without its challenges. Burgos became a mother at the age of fifteen and made the difficult decision to drop out of high school. This early experience, however, appears to have fueled her ambition, pushing her to carve her own path to success. Her entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her various ventures and her savvy understanding of the power of social media.
Burgos' career took off at around 27 years old, marking the beginning of her modeling journey. While she acknowledges that she doesn't like the label "video vixen", she embraced the role of an "urban model". Her body became a canvas, and she used it to great effect to build her brand and image. She's known for posting workout videos on social media, showcasing her figure and fitness routines. The rise of social media, particularly Instagram, was the perfect platform for her to connect with a global audience, amassing a significant following of over 3.6 million people. Her ability to engage with her followers and share glimpses into her life has solidified her status as an influencer.
The subject of plastic surgery is one that Burgos has addressed head-on. She's been open about undergoing procedures to enhance her figure. In interviews, including one with The Breakfast Club, she discussed the decision to have multiple procedures, including breast and hip augmentations, as well as butt enhancements. She has never shied away from discussing her decision, openly admitting to procedures to support her modeling career and enhance her physical appearance. The specifics of her surgeries, including a BBL done after her second daughter, and even sharing the name of her surgeon, Dr. Hector Plazas in Colombia.
Her willingness to discuss these modifications, even in explicit detail, has perhaps cemented her authenticity. The media attention, and the commentary, have not deterred her. In fact, Burgos seems to embrace it. She is known for owning her truth, even if that includes publicly acknowledging cosmetic enhancements.
Her candidness has also extended to addressing rumors about her personal life. She's been linked to prominent figures in the music industry, including Drake and T.I.. When questioned about these relationships, she has addressed the rumors directly, neither confirming nor denying, but rather navigating the media landscape on her own terms.
Burgos' willingness to be honest about her work is part of her appeal. She doesn't shy away from flaunting her curvaceous physique, a move that undoubtedly fuels the rumors about plastic surgery. Her openness about her body modifications may be seen as empowering for her fans, many of whom follow her as a role model for body confidence.
Burgos has also become a subject of interest due to her association with rapper T.I. and the widely publicized events surrounding his home. She embraces the attention, navigating the media scrutiny with confidence and a distinct sense of style.
Burgos' life is not without familial connections. She's the grandmother of Ashley's daughter, India, a role that she often documents on her Instagram. Ashley has posted many pictures of India on her Instagram, and both mother and grandmother clearly have close family ties.
Burgos' financial success is also notable. The model, entrepreneur, and social media star has leveraged her brand to create multiple income streams. Her success on Instagram has led to accusations of plastic surgery, but she has not allowed the gossip to stop her from achieving her goals.
She has created a business model that seems to thrive on visibility and authenticity, both key ingredients for success in the world of internet celebrities. She also promotes her own fashion lines and other products, showcasing her entrepreneurial drive. She doesn't just model; she markets herself and various ventures. This adaptability is, perhaps, a sign of her resilience.
Burgos career, though largely built on her physical appearance and social media savvy, is far from shallow. She is a survivor of numerous challenges. The fact that she began her career as a bartender and waitress, then successfully transitioned to the high-profile world of modeling, is a testament to her hustle and determination.
Her influence extends beyond her personal brand. She has been seen in various social events with her daughter Ashley Marie Burgos, including the Vh1's The Impact New York Series premiere in January 2024, where they attended as a pair. In many ways, Bernice Burgos is a case study in building a successful brand by understanding and leveraging the power of the image and social media. She is a modern-day entrepreneur, who has transformed her personal life into a brand, generating multiple income streams and securing a strong position in the world of social media influencers and urban models. Despite dealing with the challenges and scrutiny that come with fame, she maintains a strong online presence and a following. She also keeps up a commitment to her body, which is a key ingredient in her image, often going to the gym to maintain it.
Her story is not just about beauty and fame; it's about the hustle, the resilience, and the ability to turn personal experiences into opportunity. In a world where perceptions often shape reality, Burgos has crafted her own narrative, a brand that is both aspirational and authentic, proving that with determination and a little bit of boldness, anything is possible. The many procedures she has underwent, and her candor in admitting them, has brought her even more fame.
