Lead Without Shrinking: How to Build Executive Presence without losing yourself

Event Details:
Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 5:30-7:30 pm EST
Location:
Kelaca
6736 Falls of Neuse Rd. Suite 200
Raleigh, NC 27615
Who: Anyone
Cost: $20

About This Event
In a world that often pressures women in tech to dilute their voice to fit in, Lead Without Shrinking is a rallying call for bold, unapologetic leadership.

Join Cynthia Barnes, award-winning sales expert and founder of Thank You; It’s True™, for a high-impact keynote that dismantles the myth that success requires conforming to a standard mold. Cynthia will unveil how embracing your authentic self is not just a personal win — it’s a strategic career advantage. This event is for those ready to amplify their executive presence, command rooms with confidence, and lead without compromise.
Expect empowering insights, actionable frameworks, and an evening filled with connection, community, and courage.

Meet The Speaker: Cynthia Barnes
Cynthia Barnes is a powerhouse in sales strategy and women’s leadership. A TEDx speaker and founder of Thank You; It’s True™, Cynthia has worked with top organizations including Google, LinkedIn, Salesforce, and Toyota. Her frameworks help ambitious women reclaim their greatness and thrive on their own terms. Featured in Forbes, Cynthia is known for turning stages into movements — and lives into legacies.

Get your ticket
Who Should Attend?

• Women and nonbinary professionals in tech and leadership roles
• Emerging leaders ready to level up their presence and impact
• Executives, founders, and changemakers craving authentic leadership strategies
• Allies, mentors, advocates — anyone who champions equity and inclusion in the workplace

Why You Should Attend?

• Learn how to embody authentic executive presence
• Discover why leading without shrinking creates professional leverage
• Network with women+ in tech who are redefining leadership together
• Leave with tools you can use in your career right away

Enjoy Locally Sponsored Fare!
We’re proud to partner with generous local sponsors who help make this event possible:
Venue Sponsor: Kelaca
Food Sponsors: Sassool | Mixed Desserts
Come for the insights — stay for the community (and the cookies).
This isn’t just an event — it’s a movement.
Step into your brilliance. Own your impact. And lead like never before.