Collegiate Memorial Tournament, in honor of Aksel Bjerre-Fernandes

Aksel Bjerre-Fernandes was an internationally-ranked Atlanta fencer who tragically passed away in November 2019 after a long struggle with mental health challenges. The university is hosting a fencing tournament this February, when he would have turned 19, in his honor, and all proceeds will be donated to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

Aksel was born in San Jose, Costa Rica on February 13, 2001. He was a spirited and mischievous child, who idolized his older brother Christian and often feasted on coconut. The family moved to Atlanta in 2004 where Aksel was known by all in the Virginia Highlands community. Aksel attended Morningside Elementary School, Inman Middle School, both in Virginia Highlands, and Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs. Aksel was a member of Nellya Fencers Club, competing at the national and international level and winning two North American Cup tournaments, for Cadet Men’s Sabre, in 2017.

To register for the tournament, complete registration for the event on AskFRED.com and submit a minimum $15 contribution on https://donate.nami.org/aksel. Donations of any amount from family, friends, and supporters are also enocouraged. Donating through this page is easy, fast and secure.

Both NAMI and Fencing appreciate your donation. Thank you so much for your support!