Self-advocacy in the Workplace: Insights from Presenting at SXSW 2025

If you had asked me a year ago whether I'd speak at SXSW, I would have never even imagined it. But life has a way of surprising us when we step into our purpose.

As the Community Outreach Director for ICF Greater Austin, I’ve been inspired by a clear mission: to raise awareness of professional coaching and make it accessible beyond the boardroom. We wanted to bring the power of coaching into the wider community. That calling led us to set our sights on SXSW and began our journey.

Sharanya Rao engaging the audience during her presentation at SXSW 2025.

Last month,  I had the honor of stepping onto that stage to speak about self-advocacy in the workplace. A conversation I care deeply about—not just because I coach people on it, but because I’ve lived the journey of finding my voice, too. In the session, I shared a framework and practical tools for self-advocacy at work through developing your network and leveraging opportunities. But even more importantly, I spoke to the inner shift that must happen first.

Because it’s one thing to know that you should advocate for yourself. It’s another to embody that self-advocacy with confidence.

That’s where coaching comes in. It’s not just about learning a script—it’s about shifting mindsets, quieting the inner critic, and stepping fully into your own authority. It’s about uncovering what’s getting in your way, and building the habits and support that allow you to show up differently.

And wow—what an experience to speak on that stage! You know that magical moment when everything just "clicks"? That’s exactly how it felt. My inner critic went silent, my heart came alive, and I was fully present with an audience eager to step into their power. The session went by in what felt like a blink.

After the talk, several people came up to share how the session landed for them:

💬 “What stood out most was how you emphasized the power of authenticity in finding and elevating our voice... Your talk made me relive a defining experience in my life and reinforced the importance of owning our personal narratives.”

💬 “I recognized so many themes in myself—it was incredibly relevant.”

💬 “I have an upcoming interview, and I’m so glad I attended your session!”

💬 “Congratulations on the session! It was so insightful.”

These words moved me more than I can say. Because this is what it’s really about—not the stage or the spotlight, but the ripple effect of confidence. When we choose to show up authentically, it gives others permission to do the same.

If you’re someone who’s been holding back, waiting for permission to speak up, take up space, or ask for what you need—consider this your sign. Confidence isn’t something you have to earn first. It’s something you build by taking imperfect, courageous steps toward the person you’re becoming.

And if you’re not sure where to begin? Coaching can be a powerful place to start. You don’t have to go it alone.

To those who joined the session at SXSW—thank you. Your presence meant the world. If you weren’t able to attend, here’s a link to the audio recording of my session: https://schedule.sxsw.com/2025/events/PP1147691 

Here’s to elevating our voices, owning our stories, and showing up for ourselves—one brave step at a time.