BE Modern Man is an integrative program that honors the essence, image, and accomplishments of today’s man of color. With features of today’s leaders, executives, creatives, students, politicians, entrepreneurs, professionals, and agents of change—these men share the common thread of creating a new normal while setting the bar in tech, art, philanthropy, business, and beyond. The BE Modern Man is making a positive impact, his way, and has a story to tell.
BE MODERN MAN KEVIN M. BAILEY
Name: Kevin M. Bailey
Age: 31
Profession: Global Industry Leader at IBM (Civil Engineer by Degree)
One Word that Describes you: Resilient
Social Media handles: Instagram: @ElectKevinBailey Facebook: @electkivenbailey
What does being one of the BEMM 100 Men of Distinction mean to you?
Being one of the BEMM 100 Men of Distinction is a very surreal experience. I personally believe life gains value by living for and aiding others. Helping and being a servant to my community is a responsibility with its own reward, but it is great and I’m very appreciative of the recognition.
What are some examples of how you have turned struggle into success?
I ran for 20th Ward Alderman (2015) in the City of Chicago and lost my first race to the incumbent. Though I was defeated in the first race, I kept working in the community and ran against the incumbent once more and won the political office of 20th Ward Democratic Committeeman (2016). Next year (2019), I will run for 20th Ward Alderman again and continue to build on [that] success for a better community for the people of my ward and across the city.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Don’t put off things for tomorrow that you can do today” – OG Triple OG Ma (grandma)
What advice you have for other men who want to make a difference?
Never forget who you are and where you come from. As men, we have a responsibility to our families and communities. “Making it out of the hood” isn’t success. Rebuilding it and replicating yourself is.
What is your “Extraordinary Impact”?
Professionally, I conduct and help shape “first of a kind” technology projects that will change the landscape of our lives and industry for the better. People, processes, and assets will become more efficient, making way for a cleaner, safer, and healthier living and work environment.
Politically, I am challenging the “status quo” of the Chicago machine. I am asking tough questions, collaborating and working hard to ensure that our communities are safer. In addition, I’m focused on making sure we can attract businesses for jobs and ensuring our youth have a future.
It’s our normal to be extraordinary. Follow @BEModernMan and join the conversation using #BEModernMan.
Come celebrate the BE Modern Man 100 Men of Distinction at the 2nd Annual Black Men XCEL, Aug. 29–Sept. 2, 2018, at PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.