Houston – Breaking may be one of the newer Olympic sports, but the culture behind it has been thriving for decades. In Houston, BGirl City Worldwide is helping ensure that women and young girls have a place to learn, grow, and lead through hip-hop culture.
Executive Director Ericka “BabyGirl” De Leon and Chief Operating Officer Cindy “LaCindy” Lopez joined Houston Life to discuss the organization’s impact and its upcoming BGirl City XVI Legacy Camp.
BabyGirl began dancing in 1994 and says the culture became a source of belonging and support during her childhood.
“What started as an escape became a lifestyle,” she explained. “When I found this community, I knew it was something I needed to be around.”
Founded in Texas in 2005, BGirl City Worldwide has evolved into a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and youth through breaking, mentorship, education, and community programming. De Leon took over leadership in 2015 and has helped grow the organization while staying true to its original mission.
Lopez first connected with BGirl City as a judge and later joined the team in 2018. Today, she oversees operations and logistics while helping bring the organization’s vision to life.
“It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself,” Lopez said. “Every year is different, but seeing the impact on young people keeps us coming back.”
Both women emphasized that breaking remains a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence-building, especially for girls entering a culture that has historically been male-dominated.
“Women have fought hard for their place in this culture,” De Leon said. “Now we’re able to create opportunities for the next generation and show young girls what’s possible.”
That mission is at the heart of the first-ever BGirl City Legacy Camp, happening June 10 through June 14 in Houston. The five-day experience will feature workshops, mentorship opportunities, cultural education, wellness programming, and community events for participants of all skill levels.
The week wraps up with BGirl City XVI on June 13, an all-women breaking event featuring competitors, DJs, judges, and organizers from across the country.
The organization hopes the camp will not only teach dance skills but also inspire leadership, connection, and personal growth.
To close their time on Houston Life, several young members of BGirl City Worldwide showcased their athleticism, creativity, and confidence that the organization works to cultivate every day. Watch their performance above.
For more information about BGirl City XVI Legacy Camp and BGirl City Worldwide, watch the full interview below or visit their website.