Story Salon / Raw n Uncut / Barry

When the Mind Undresses

As a PhD student and educator, Barry thrives in a world of data, theories, and lectures—but his first modeling shoot challenged him to redefine confidence beyond academia. For someone accustomed to dissecting ideas, standing in front of the camera became a lesson in embracing vulnerability, intellect, and the quiet power of simply being.

“Confidence isn’t about proving
yourself—it’s knowing your worth,
even when others don’t yet.”

If you could send your younger self a message about confidence, what would it be?

We never know what’s underneath—what’s one thing about you that people never expect?

That I’m a PhD student. There’s this myth that confidence and intellect can’t coexist, but they do—my brain’s my secret weapon.

What is something about yourself that you used to hide but now own completely?

I used to worry my analytical side made me seem cold. Now? I lean into it. Breaking down problems, anticipating challenges—it’s not detachment, it’s precision. That focus shapes how I teach, research, and even how I step into a room.

What does representation mean to you?

It’s not just being seen—it’s doing something with that visibility. I chose education because representation means passing the torch: creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, lifting others up. Existing in a space is one thing; leaving it better? That’s the goal.

What’s the most underrated thing that makes someone attractive?


Humility with quiet competence. Someone who doesn’t need applause but steps up when it matters—that understated power is magnetic.

If TRIIIPLE were a person, what kind of energy would they have?

Effortless. Athletic but unpretentious, pure in its simplicity—the kind of presence that doesn’t scream for attention but earns it.

Interviewed by Isaiah Thomas
Photoshoot by Superhomme
Styling by Soo Jet
Make up & Hair Styling by Zoel Tee & Christvian Wu