Bobby Hermida is one of the most compassionate, resilient and kind people I know. He smiles and interacts with anyone that walks by in a way that most just don’t care to. He does it because he doesn’t want anyone else to hurt the way he has.
Bobby is the everyday type of hero that everyone needs to know about. He deeply deserves this recognition and it is my honor to tell you about someone I am so blessed to have as one of my best friends.
It is exemplified through Bobby that the daily interactions we have, with strangers or loved ones, are the most impactful. I have witnessed, over and over again, Bobby striking conversations with strangers that end with him sharing his contact information and continually checking in on them.
He has a gift of using humor and authenticity to make hard conversations feel approachable. He deeply cares about and loves those he has never met.
Bobby is passionate about many causes and has volunteered repeatedly for mental health, HIV and LGBTQ+ organizations. I am personally most inspired by how he advocates for recovery. After many years of tribulation, a trauma sent Bobby to an understandable breaking point.
I watched my friend go down a dark path, and then I watched him get out of it. Bobby has been sober two years now. That takes a lot and I respect him strongly for it. Since then, I have watched as he repeatedly supports others through their recovery.
What Bobby has overcome is inspiring, what he has accomplished despite his obstacles is impressive. He is consistently finding creative ways to support the wellbeing and happiness of others. During the pandemic, Bobby helped organize and manage a food drive.
He also worked with a group that created 3,400 masks for individuals needing them. Bobby can always be counted on for any last-minute volunteer need, he already has a lot on his plate so I really have no idea how.
When I asked him why he is doing all of this he replied with “everyone deserves access to feeling and being safe and secure.” Bobby Hermida is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable people in Central Florida.
To view the full list of Watermark’s Most Remarkable People of 2020, click here.
