The Actors’ Fund of Canada’s Board of Directors recently welcomed two new Board Members: Deborah Bernstein and Sugith Varughese.
Why do you personally support the work of the Actors’ Fund of Canada?
Deborah: “The Actors’ Fund of Canada has a solid reputation for being effective in addressing the urgent financial needs of members of the entertainment industry. It’s inclusive, respectful and timely in its dealings with clients. I’m so pleased to now be a member of the AFC Board.”
Sugith: “Simple. They do good work. I have two friends who’ve been helped by the Actors’ Fund that I know of, (and I’m sure others that I don’t know.) And both of them told me that the AFC’s assistance was a lifesaver in their time of tremendous stress and upheaval. Being part of the entertainment community, I know how precarious the safety net can be and knowing that the AFC exists makes that safety net a little bit stronger.”
“Being part of the entertainment community, I know how precarious the safety net can be and knowing that the Actors’ Fund of Canada exists makes that safety net a little bit stronger.” – Sugith Varughese
What led you to become an Actors’ Fund Board Member?
Deborah: “I’ve always been a fan of the AFC and its direct approach to solving problems. I first became involved with an AFC committee looking at models to predict future needs based on an analysis of the demographic composition of the industry.”
Sugith: “I’ve supported the Actors Fund myself through personal donations and company donations in both theatre and TV. So when I was asked if I would let myself be considered as a possible board member, I immediately agreed.”
“I’ve always been a fan of the Actors’ Fund and its direct approach to solving problems.” – Deborah Bernstein
What are you looking forward to accomplishing on the Actors’ Fund Board of Directors?
Deborah: “I’m looking forward to supporting the goals and activities of the AFC in any way that I can be useful.”
Sugith: “I hope to bring a unique perspective to the board from being a writer and a visible minority. I’m proud to be one of the pioneer Indo-Canadian performer-writers in the country and I’m glad that the entertainment community’s diversity in discipline and backgrounds gets reflected in me.”
When not working or volunteering my time I like to…
Deborah: “I enjoy family time and travelling, as far and as often as possible.”
Sugith: “I have two black belts in karate and was the first Canadian to grade in my style of kobudo in Japan. So I train when I can. I’m also a fanatic if mediocre golfer so I’m looking forward to the AFC’s annual golf tournament fundraiser.”
