By Andrea Holata

BRIGHTON — Students of Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School got a lesson on bullying on Nov. 14 when entertainer Chris Hollyfield stopped by to speak with students.

Students, teachers and staff watched a slideshow presentation showing how bullying can harm people, how to “speak up to bullying” and how to “be somebody or be nobody.” They learned the importance of not letting a person stop them from living successful lives.

Hollyfield, who has been on World Wrestling Entertainment and has acted in the movies Bad Boys and Little Giants, spoke with students on his experience with bullying and encouraged youth to always do their best. Hollyfield may not be the tallest man, but he has a big heart and is stronger than most people; he can lift 330 pounds, weighing in at only 110 pounds.

“Never allow a bully to stop you from living your dreams,” Hollyfield said. “Speak up and let your voice be your tools and not your hands. Today, you have a choice. You can be somebody or be nobody.”

Students asked questions following Hollyfield’s speech. They wanted to know if he had people to confide in when he was bullied.

“I had friends that I would talk to them about being bullied,” Hollyfield said. “When I got bullied, it would be when my friends weren’t around. We didn’t always have the same classes.”

Despite the challenges he faced, he has a new outlook now.

“I get comments made because people don’t know who I am,” he said. “At my age, I don’t pay no mind to it because if I put my positive energy into their negative energy, then I am going to be the one who is losing, so I keep it going and move forward.”

He also pressed the importance of not retaliating by use of force because it can change your life.

Hollyfield wrapped up his speech with an important note.

“Always have determination and desire to be a friend and not a bully,” he said. “Believe in yourself and the goals that you set for yourselves. Always listen to your culture, teachers, principal and your parents.”