Cecilia Real is chief of party for the USAID/Mexico Por la Proteccion de los Defensores y Periodistas (Defenders and Journalists Protection, PDP) Activity. A rule of law and human rights expert with nearly two decades of experience, Cecilia has spent more than seven years working on USAID-funded programming in Mexico. She brings extensive experience in freedom of expression, access to justice for vulnerable populations, private sector engagement, and civil society engagement and strengthening. Cecilia leverages established working relationships with leaders in civil society, government, and the private sector to build consensus and inspire joint action. A strategic thinker, she has a rare blend of technical expertise, communication and interpersonal skills, and program management acumen to affect meaningful, systemic change.