Some people live their lives in carefully curated snapshots, sharing only the most polished moments online. Cecilia is not one of those people. Known on Reddit as buttercupcece and on Instagram as cc.skates, she lets her followers in on the raw, unfiltered, and sometimes delightfully chaotic reality of her life. At just 20 years old, she’s already managed to turn her corner of the internet into a mix of skateboarding adventures, candid transition updates, and unapologetic punk energy. Whether she’s carving up the Marquette Plaza, braving icy rock faces, running forest trails, or experimenting in the kitchen, Cecilia’s world is one of movement, rebellion, and self-expression. Currently in the midst of transferring from Northern Michigan University in Marquette to Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Cecilia is pursuing a degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, a field she admits she’s still figuring out the finer details of. What she does know is that skateboarding is her greatest passion, tattoos are a growing collection, and her personal style leans toward the fearless and unconventional. But beneath the vibrant aesthetic is a story of resilience.
Cecilia’s decision to share her transition journey came from a place of gratitude, she once found hope in the online stories of others, and now she’s determined to pay that forward. Her posts have inspired, entertained, and occasionally bewildered her audience, leading to everything from genuine support to quirky messages (including at least one unforgettable “Barbie Doll” request). She speaks openly about the highs and lows of transition, from celebrating the changes brought on by hormone therapy to navigating heartbreak, transphobia, and the ongoing need for trans representation in media. Cecilia doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, whether it’s criticizing political setbacks for trans rights, addressing misconceptions about trans femininity, or questioning beauty standards altogether. At the same time, her humor and self-awareness make even heavy conversations feel approachable. In this interview, we talk about skate culture, love, community, activism, and what it means to stay true to yourself in a world that still struggles to understand difference. Cecilia may not be interested in writing a memoir just yet, but her voice, equal parts witty, grounded, and bold, makes her story unforgettable.
