Meet Cynthia Perez

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cynthia Perez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cynthia below.

Cynthia , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?

I believe my resilience comes from my roots. Growing up on the border, I had to learn to move between two cultures and two worlds, and that taught me strength. Being an escaramuza and a Charro Queen also showed me resilience—because as a woman in a male-dominated tradition, I had to work twice as hard to be heard and respected. But my biggest resilience comes from the women in my family, from my mother and grandmother, who carried tradition with dignity and showed me that courage can be graceful. Every time I ride, I carry their strength with me.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

My story is rooted in Charrería, in the life of an escaramuza and former Charro Queen growing up on the U.S.–Mexico border. That experience shaped me into someone who not only participates in tradition, but who also works to preserve, share, and expand it. What excites me most is being able to show people that Charrería is not just a sport—it’s history, culture, and identity in motion.

Today, my focus is on using my platform to educate others about the correct history of Charrería and to highlight the role of women in it. I want young girls to see themselves not just as participants, but as leaders. I also work to bridge communities—helping people in the U.S. better understand and celebrate this heritage, while also inspiring pride within our Mexican communities.

What I’d like people to know about my work is that it’s not only about tradition—it’s about transformation. Charrería has crossed borders, and I believe our voices, stories, and leadership can too. Right now, I’m working on Voices of the RGV 2026, which is very special to me because it’s a way to amplify these stories and ensure they are not forgotten. My goal is to create something that feels like both a cultural preservation and an invitation for others to learn and be inspired.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were:

Resilience. Growing up between two cultures and stepping into a male-dominated tradition meant I had to face doubts and challenges constantly. Resilience allowed me to keep going even when it was difficult. My advice: resilience is built day by day. Allow yourself to fall, but commit to standing up stronger every time.

Knowledge. I realized that if I wanted to be taken seriously, I needed to know the history of Charrería inside and out. That knowledge became my foundation, and it gave me both credibility and confidence. My advice: be a student of your passion. Learn the history, the details, the ‘why’ behind what you do—it will make your voice powerful.

Leadership with authenticity. As a Charro Queen and later as an escaramuza, I learned that leadership isn’t about titles or appearances—it’s about staying true to yourself and lifting others up with you. My advice: lead with humility and courage, and don’t be afraid to use your platform to create space for others.

For anyone early in their journey, I would say: don’t rush the process. Focus on resilience, seek real knowledge, and practice authentic leadership—even in small ways. Those three qualities will carry you through obstacles and help you create lasting impact.

What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?

My biggest area of growth this past year has been learning to rebuild from zero—completely on my own. After going through a really difficult breakup, I had to start fresh, and that forced me to discover strengths I didn’t even know I had. I’ve been learning to love myself again, to trust my own voice, and to focus on healing. Part of that growth has also been giving myself permission to try new things, to fail, and to see those experiences as part of my journey. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been transformative. I think the most beautiful part is realizing that healing and growth are not separate from our goals—they are what make us strong enough to reach them.
Just like in the arena, I’ve learned that even when life knocks you down, you get back on the horse, lift your head high, and ride forward with strength and grace.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: cyndidrug
• Linkedin: cyndidrug

Image Credits

Victor Mata Photographer