Robert Valin

Robert Valin (Mr. Eagle NYC 2005) is the powerhouse behind The Urban Bear—NYC’s bold, body-positive celebration of the global LGBTQ+ bear community. A proud third-generation New Yorker, Robert launched Urban Bear Weekend in 2008 and built it into one of the city’s must-attend queer festivals, drawing thousands from across the world to events like the legendary Urban Bear Street Fair and his annual Pride celebrations each June.

In 2025, he took the party to the beach with the debut of Fire Island Bear Weekend, expanding his mission to create spaces where connection, visibility, and pride thrive. Beyond producing unforgettable events, Robert is a Certified Professional Coach (CPC: ELI-MP) and champion for LGBTQ+ voices, using business development, media, and storytelling to inspire and empower.

With roots in voice acting, media production, and nightlife promotion, Robert blends creativity, advocacy, and entrepreneurial drive to keep the bear community—and its allies—connected, celebrated, and roaring.