We had the good fortune of connecting with LadyPerez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LadyPerez, please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Nothing in my life is ever easy – though I wish it were. 2023 alone had so many challenges that had me questioning the value of my own life at multiple points, but I can finally say that I am still here.

I got started in theatre in the 7th grade in “Ragtime” through the Chaney High School VPA after school program while I was attending Rayen Early College and I never stopped performing. Of course, I previously had a background in the church as well, but I feel like that moment was my kick starter.

In the arts, I’ve learned how to develop thick skin, how to defend myself, take criticism and how to separate my personal life from my professional persona. That does not mean that I am stoic, boring or perfect, because I have many moments where the two mix, but it’s all about keeping in mind, “Will this (re)action be a good and necessary reflection of my brand in 10 years?” It helps me to stay on track.

For example, when I experienced the greatest heartbreak in the world earlier this year, the main thing keeping me going was remembering what my dad wanted for me – which reminded me of what I wanted for myself – to keep going and to achieve my dreams. I was already determined to succeed while he was still alive, but I think that I was really catapulted into womanhood and becoming who I am now once God brought him home.

Losing him in this physical aspect shook my world up but it revealed who my true village is in the process – which I am grateful for. It’s a painful process, but a necessary journey to go through.

As far as my art goes, my journey is only about a decade old and I still have many more years to go with my story. So if you’d like to follow along, then keep your eyes peeled – “You ain’t seen nothing yet”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When I meet people, I like to see who they are before just going on a wild tangent. I like to see what they are willing to accept and predict what they might decline and then stay within those guidelines. So, if I have a friend that loves the outdoors and trying new foods, I would take them to every secret spot I know of and hopefully discover some others along the way.

However, if I have a friend that loves a particular genre of music I don’t like or am unfamiliar with and loves animals but hates the outdoors, I would show them the different animal shelters and be very inquisitive about their preferences.

True friendship is all about respect and willingness to grow.

But generally, if you would like me to recommend some things about my city, my best recommendation is just to come here and get lost – meaning, explore every street you can and you’ll find a hidden gem on every road.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been working for Dreams4U Productions for years now and I just couldn’t do this interview without at least giving them a shout out! Dreams4U Productions is a production company that originated in Youngstown, OH – founded by Ms. Martha Robinson-Brodgon and through her, we put on many shows that inspire others, touch hearts and show us the world. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, Ms. Martha.

Instagram: Lady_Perez22

Facebook: Facebook.com/LadyPerez22

Youtube: MrsLadyPerez

Other: Tiktok: LadyPerez_22 Instagram: Lady_Perez22 Facebook: LadyPerez22 (LadyPerez) YouTube: MrsLadyPerez Wattpad: LadyPerez

Image Credits
Mia Turquoise Image, Kenny Reyes

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.