Mario Bonds: The Face of Motivation & Music

We think we fully comprehend that courage, creativity and determination are critical to our success, but it quickly becomes clear how much we all still have to learn about the innate power of these concepts when you hear the story and experience the music of Mario Bonds. Bonds is a multitalented singer/songwriter and motivational speaker made famous by NBC Universal's run of The “Glee Project.” Successful in his quest to show the world that a person with a disability can rise to meet any challenge, Bonds has enjoyed entertaining and inspiring millions.

One of a set of triplets, Bonds comes from a large family of nine siblings. Born with Morning Glory Syndrome, a degenerative condition that gradually destroyed the optic nerve in both of his eyes, he was completely blind by the tender age of nine. After losing both his vision, and his parents, Bonds experienced a childhood the likes of which few can even imagine -- suffering abuse on a number of levels, abandonment and eventually, homelessness. Amazingly, one thing he never suffered from was hopelessness.

Represented by the American Program Bureau (APB), a prominent entertainment and speaking bureau, and revered the “Face of Motivation,” Bonds has been spreading music and motivation across the nation to varying audiences. Released on March 17, 2018, Bonds' debut single, “Steel,” is a stirring, biographical power ballad that he uses to inspire those facing challenges to believe in themselves, and to do as he did and recognize themselves as made of Steel, with the power to withstand tough circumstances, and any form of adversity/naysayer who wishes to see them fail. On target to become a crossover modern-day anthem, with soaring vocals and infectious lyrics, "Steel" definitely delivers a jolt of much needed inspiration for today’s world.

Instead of allowing setbacks to define him, Bonds utilized them to propel himself forward. He first fell in love with the piano and singing at age 5, and received his first taste of professional exposure at age 12, playing the drums for his childhood church, Refuge Temple in Washington, D.C. After mastering the piano and drums, Bonds quickly added playing the guitar and organ to his musical talents. At age 14, a musically gifted Bonds earned a spot in the prestigious Suitland’s School for the Visual and Performing Arts high school, and went on to secure a degree in Journalism from George Mason University.

Bonds became a highly sought accessibility technology expert, providing skillful computer guidance to companies and people needing support. He finds purpose in giving back through his participation and sponsorship of programs and events for troubled youths. He holds foster care licensing, and is in the process of adopting teenage boys. Bonds is also an accomplished voice actor and poet.

On The Glee Project and beyond, Bonds showed Hollywood, and the world, that a person with a disability can rise to meet any challenge. In recognition of his work with students and the performing arts, Bonds was awarded the prestigious Imagination Award by the Imagination Stage, a theatre arts organization for young people. He is the author of "Without Sight but Full of Vision," a memoir recounting how he overcame a childhood marred by blindness, abuse and abandonment.

Through his unforgettable music, keynotes and live performances, Bonds exemplifies the philosophy that triumph and success are still possible, no matter the obstacle, with sufficient courage, creativity and determination to overcome adverse odds. His experiences and lessons will motivate you, both personally and professionally, to push the envelope, overcome any difficulty and ultimately, make the choices that will set you along the path to achieving your goals.

Bonds is a must hear/must see performer and motivational speaker who delivers a passionate “special surprise” for his listeners and audiences, as he demonstrates what it truly means to overcome adversity.

Bonds is a powerful speaker with the ability to draw audiences in. His presentations are thought provoking, inspiring and the perfect blend of education and entertainment. A fluent Spanish speaker, he provides performances and keynotes in Spanish as well. As a talented vocalist, per request, many of Mario's presentations are concluded with an inspirational song performance. His topics include:

  • Putting The Odds in Your Favor: Choosing to Overcome Adversity
  • Without Sight but Full of Vision: A Message from Mario's Childhood Memoir
  • What Disability?: Redefining What it Means to be Disabled
  • Box of Life's Chocolates: Diversity, Equal Access & Inclusion
  • From Victim to Survivor (abuse/assault): Ways to Reclaim Your Power
  • World of Assistive Technology: A Blind Man's Virtual Life

Click here for more information on Mario's speaking topics.

For booking inquiries, please email Paul Kreiter.

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