Today we’d like to introduce you to Seyde Garcia.
Hi Seyde, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m Seyde, Arts advocate and writer. I’m a Border Native from Los Dos Laredos Area. My life has unfolded between two countries, but also between two worlds: the manufacturing industry, where I’ve built a career as an HR professional, and the arts.
I started as a storyteller, promoting literature and that evolved into acting as part of a theater company.
In 2021, driven by a desire to share the wonder that the arts had sparked within me, I began to write about art. My aim was not only to express my admiration for the beauty found in my surroundings but also to highlight the richness of the place I call home. Through contributing to various publications across Texas and Northern Mexico, I have been able to document and reflect on the vibrant arts scene that thrives in this region.
I have seen the art communities from both Laredo, Texas and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, Bloom through the proffesionalization of the artist practices and the efforts coming from non-profits and cultural collectives. This has led me to take a step forward in my Journey as an Arts advocate and recently joined the board of the Laredo Center for the Arts. I also started to develop a curatorial practice, and served as juror for programs, such as AiR (Artists in Residency) Cultivarte by Daphne art Foundation.
My wish is to strengthen relationships within what some have called the “trifecta” or “the Golden Triangle” an area between San Antonio, Los Dos Laredos, and The Valley. My goal is to enhance cultural exchanges and foster professional development practices across this region.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Both Nuevo Laredo and Laredo face a lack of professionalization programs for cultural workers and artists. While it is important to acknowledge how such programs could greatly benefit the region, it is equally vital to recognize that this gap has not deterred us. Our resilience reflects the spirit of our land when formal resources are scarce, we find ways to guide ourselves and continue learning through our own initiative and determination.
Although I am an engineer by training, my understanding of writing and arts advocacy has grown thanks to mentors willing to share their knowledge. My drive to learn, coupled with humility and openness to guidance, has shaped my journey. This approach is not unique to me; for every artist I have encountered, discipline and self-nurture have been essential foundations. These qualities have not only strengthened our individual practices but have also contributed to the growth of our entire community.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work at the intersection of talent development, arts, and community engagement along the U.S.-Mexico border. Professionally, I lead Talent Development initiatives in the manufacturing industry, where I focus on employee growth, leadership development, and creating opportunities that strengthen both people and organizations.
Beyond my corporate career, I’m an arts writer and cultural advocate specializing in contemporary art and cultural initiatives across South Texas and Northern Mexico. My work highlight artists, exhibitions, and the unique cultural landscape of the borderlands.
What I’m most proud of is building bridges between worlds that don’t always intersect: industry and the arts, Mexico and the United States, corporate leadership and community impact.
Whether I’m developing future leaders at work or documenting the work of emerging artists, my goal is to create opportunities for people to grow, connect, and be seen.
I believe what sets me apart is my cross-border perspective. Having grown up in Nuevo Laredo and working closely with communities on both sides of the border allows me to approach every project with a binational lens. I’m passionate about telling stories that challenge stereotypes and showcase the creativity, resilience, and innovation that define our region.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I deeply believe in meaningful connections. Whether they are personal, such as friendships or romantic relationships, or professional. Through conversations with friends and colleagues, we have often observed that strong communities are built upon a shared goal: the desire to see our communities grow and succeed by supporting one another.
At the core of seeking mentorship is honesty. When looking for a mentor, it is helpful to connect with individuals who have mastered a skill you wish to pursue. It is important to have a clear goal in mind, but also to seek out someone whose values align with your own. This alignment ensures that the guidance you receive will resonate both with your ambitions and your principles.
Humility is essential in the mentoring process. It is important to remember that we do not know everything, and when someone takes the time to share their knowledge, it deserves to be honored. The best approach is to listen attentively and apply their insights intentionally to your daily practices. This is where you discover the intersection between what you have learned and your unique personal style.
Eventually, there will come a time to mentor others. Communities need to evolve, and it takes collective effort to create meaningful movements. As much as we benefit from guidance, we must also be prepared to step up and share our knowledge when the opportunity arises.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @seydeg
