Fernando discovered Gigwalking only a few weeks ago, but already he’s cut a swath through San Francisco completing almost 300 Gigs. All the while exploring new neighborhoods and making friends along the way.  His background in acting and connecting with people helps him quickly build rapport with business owners on Gigs and makes him an excellent Gigwalker to kick off this new weekly Gigwalker profile series.

Why did you start Gigwalking and what does it mean to you?

I needed to start working immediately and I wanted something that was flexible enough for me to manage my own time and work.  For me, Gigwalk is a metaphor for life: you get out of it as much effort as you put in.  I also am healthier (because I ride my bike to Gigs), I meet new people, get to explore new parts of the City and I find the work incredibly rewarding. 

Besides combing the streets for Gigs, what else do you do? 

I’m an actor – I studied at the Circle in the Square Theater School in New York City.  I’ve performed Shakespeare on Broadway as well as internationally.  I’m also really into mixed martial arts (Jujutsu and boxing) and I love bicycling all over San Francisco.

How have your Gigwalk earnings impacted your life?

Gigwalk has given me the opportunity to make more money than I made sitting at a desk.  I love to work and be active, so this is perfect for me.  It’s nice to be able to spend time with friends and take my girlfriend out to dinner without worrying about how I’m going to pay. Today, I’m wearing a great sweater from Brooklyn Circus that I bought with Gigwalk earnings.

What are your two best tips for new Gigwalkers?

#1: Be efficient and charming.

#2: Practice before you go out and don’t be afraid to redo your work.  I stitch my panos right away and do them again if I mess up.

What was your best Gigwalking experience so far?  

At a restaurant Gig for Bing Maps at Lavash  in the Inner Sunset, the owner’s wife, who was dining with her family, introduced herself and then took me to show off her flower shop and then invited me to hang out with her whole extended family.  They were such wonderful people.

Besides Gigwalk, what is your favorite iPhone Application (or Android application?)

  Chess with Friends! 

Which current event would you be discussing at the Gigwalk Watercooler?  

I’d ask about Occupy Wall Street.  I’m interested to see who has run into protesters around town.

What would be your theme song while Gigwalking? 

Definitely “Eye of the Tiger.”  It just says: “Go for it!” Which is my philosophy toward Gigwalking.

What question do you want to ask the next featured Gigwalker? 

Besides your phone, what accessories do you pack in your bag for the job?

This blog post is part of a new series featuring amazing Gigwalkers. Look for a new Gigwalker profile to be posted every Wednesday afternoon.