Bernadette Fernandez shines as a luminary in holistic student development as the CEO and Program Director of Imagine Etiquette, Inc. Since 2014, she has charted a unique course, seeking to elevate students beyond traditional academic horizons toward all-encompassing personal growth.

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At Imagine Etiquette, Bernadette designs transformative programs that blend social grace, confidence, financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, effective communication, and professional interview skills. While her initial focus was on the diverse educational landscape of Los Angeles County, she has since expanded her reach globally, offering programs both in-person and online.

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Recognizing early on that mainstream education often overlooked the development of well-rounded individuals, Bernadette emphasized the cultivation of emotional intelligence, integrity, and leadership. Through this vision, she empowers students to become confident leaders anchored in strong values and self-awareness.

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Her signature programs — SEVA™, BELLS™, VASE™, Saturday Empowerment, Dining Etiquette, and Parent Workshops — have been lauded across educational communities, inspiring students to tap into their potential. The BELLS™ initiative, backed by U-C Doorways, has gained recognition through its partnership with Holston Academy, a WASC-accredited institution. Additionally, her innovative workshops on internet safety, digital literacy, and financial literacy strengthen both students and parents, fostering stronger family and community connections.

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In response to the challenges of 2020, Bernadette demonstrated resilience and innovation by launching the Virtual After School Enrichment (VASE) program, which supported students’ emotional needs during a critical time. She also founded Imagine Etiquette’s Youth Foundation (IEYF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing behavioral finance and lifestyle programs for adolescents.

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Bernadette’s impact extends beyond education. Her work has been featured by KABC News, NBC News, ESPN LA, BeondTV, LA Parent Magazine, Wave Magazine, and LA Focus Annual First Ladies High Tea. In 2020, her dedication was honored with the 1st Annual Sister Circle Award by former California Assemblymember Sydney Kamlager. She is also the creator of the SEVA™ Guidebook for Parents and the Imagine Etiquette Daily Affirmations App, resources designed to extend her mission of empowerment beyond the classroom and into homes.

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Bernadette’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology from Mount Saint Mary’s University, a Career Technical Education Teaching Credential (CTE), and certifications from UCLA in Management Development for Entrepreneurs and USC’s Bridges to Business program, where she also serves as an alumna ambassador. She is a certified Women Minority Business Owner (WMBE) and a member of NAWBO-LA. Her leadership has earned her nominations for the 2023 Los Angeles Times Business2Business Inspirational Women Forum & Leadership Awards and the 2025 Los Angeles Business Journal Women’s Leadership Awards.

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Rooted in Los Angeles, Bernadette finds her greatest joy in family. She actively supports her daughter’s collegiate journey while balancing her roles as an entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate. Together, they exemplify resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of education.

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