Cecilia Prest

Education & Professional Background

I hold a degree in Engineering and began my career in Peru at one of the largest mines in the world. In the 1990s, few women were seen on the operational side of mining so few that you could count us on one hand. At the time, there was a deeply ingrained belief that women brought bad luck to the mines. I take pride in having broken through those barriers.

I later transitioned to Chile to work in the company’s main office in Santiago and eventually moved to the United States. My role involved integrating complex systems into daily operations work that required both technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills. I became a trailblazer, helping Peruvian professionals expand their careers internationally.

These experiences now serve me well in real estate. Helping clients relocate to Arizona reminds me of my own journey, adapting to new places and turning them into home. I’ve since earned several designations through the National Association of Realtors (NAR), strengthening my knowledge and ability to protect my clients through education and risk management.

Associations

I’m a proud member of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) and a founding board member of the East Valley Chapter. I served as parliamentarian during our inaugural year, helping our team earn recognition as a "Rookie Chapter" an achievement that was both challenging and deeply fulfilling.

Awards & Recognition

I’m honored to be a member of the President’s Club at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. This recognition reflects the dedication and personalized service I bring to every client relationship.

Notable Achievements

One of my proudest personal accomplishments is delivering healthy triplet daughters, each weighing 4 pounds. Professionally, I became the first female project manager to lead my company’s largest IT project. In real estate, I started strong: my first listing was $1.4 million, and my first buyer purchase was $800,000.

Hobbies & Interests

I love to travel and discover new cultures through food and experiences. I’m passionate about reading inspirational books and committed to lifelong learning. I thrive in connection organizing events, hosting gatherings, and spending time with the people I care about most: my friends, family, and community.

Volunteer Work & Charities

Giving back is a core value of mine. I actively support my daughters’ charter school, where our family proudly holds Silver Membership status. I also volunteer with the Phoenix Children’s Chorus, contributing to the success of its annual gala their largest fundraising event and support Foster Alliance, a nonprofit that uplifts foster children and families across Arizona.

What Drives Me

Perseverance, education, and hard work are the cornerstones of my life. My husband, my number one fan, has always supported my ambitions, ideas, and goals. I don’t wait for opportunities to come to me; I create them. Guiding clients on their journey to achieve their dreams fuels my passion every single day.