Rise & Reign: My Journey to Leading with Confidence & Authenticity

Sarah Renshaw, Founder of Rise and Reign Leadership Group

It wasn’t always clear, but looking back, every step of my journey has led me to one powerful realisation: Women are capable of leading with confidence and authenticity. This truth wasn’t something I learned overnight - it took years of struggle, triumph, and growth. But now, I’m here to tell you: you can lead with the same unwavering confidence and authenticity. And I’m here to help you do just that.

Early Beginnings: Where It All Started

I was born in Manchester, England, with everything people told me I needed to be happy - family, a solid foundation, and a career path that seemed just right. But deep down, I always knew something was missing. The pieces of the puzzle didn’t fit. I felt destined for more, though I couldn’t quite see what “more” was.

My journey started in performing arts school, where I was told that being in the spotlight was the key to success. I moved to Spain at 18 to chase a dream, a free-spirited life of adventure and discovery. Five years later, I returned to Manchester, only to realise that I needed to step into something greater. I needed to embrace my full potential.

That’s when I landed my first real job at Coca-Cola, diving into the male-dominated world of sales. I spent years proving myself, fighting to be heard, and learning to thrive under pressure. But I wasn’t doing it alone. I had incredible mentors who challenged me at every turn. I had been raised by a father who never let me win at anything - and at the time, I hated him for it. But now, I can’t thank him enough. His unwavering belief in pushing me to be my best turned me into the woman I am today - unapologetically competitive, relentless, and unstoppable.

The Turning Point: Deciding to Empower Women and Lead with Authenticity

After seven years at Coca-Cola, I was awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to Australia. At first, I thought, "No way, I can’t get on a plane for that long." But something inside me stirred, and I knew I had to take that leap. When I returned from Australia, my life took a huge turn. I realised there was so much more I needed to experience. So, I packed up my life and moved to Australia - no home, no job, no clear plan- and I was terrified.

But something remarkable happened in those early days of uncertainty. I traveled, I explored, I grew. And through the hardships, I realised that the real journey was about embracing discomfort. It was about trusting myself, taking risks, and staying true to what I really wanted out of life. Eventually, I found my footing, worked my way through the toughest experiences, and secured sponsorship for a visa, leading me to become an Australian citizen.

But the true turning point came years later, after I became a mum. At 35, I had my first daughter. It was the best moment of my life. Then, two years later, I had my second. Yet, everything changed again - during COVID, I found myself facing a separation, raising two young daughters as a single mother with no family support in Australia. It was a nightmare, the hardest thing I had ever faced. But in that moment of complete fear and uncertainty, I realised something crucial: I needed to rise, not just for me, but for my daughters.

Lessons Learned: The Road to Leadership

The years that followed were nothing short of transformative. I learned that leadership is not a title or a position - it’s a mindset. It’s about stepping up in every moment and choosing to be your most authentic, confident self. I learned that when you push through fear and embrace uncertainty, you discover your true strength.

What I’ve learned is this: Leadership is about embracing your uniqueness, your story, your challenges—and using them as fuel. It’s about saying yes even when you don’t feel ready because growth lives outside of your comfort zone. Your mind is your most powerful tool. Train it. Focus it. Don’t let fear dictate your life.

Where I Am Now: A New Chapter of Empowerment

Today, I’m at the helm of Rise & Reign - my business that’s dedicated to helping women just like you rise above self-doubt and step into your full potential. I’ve built a life that thrives on balance - my career, my health, my family, and my personal growth. And let me tell you, it didn’t come easily. I’ve worked hard, I’ve fallen down, and I’ve gotten back up every single time.

But it’s not just about my personal journey - it’s also about the businesses I’ve led to growth, transformation, and success. Over the years, I’ve worked with companies of all sizes, helping them align their leadership, culture, and strategies with their goals. I’ve seen firsthand how authentic leadership and the right approach to team development can drive growth - whether that’s increasing revenue, boosting retention, or cultivating a culture of innovation.

When I work with business leaders, I focus on empowering their teams- because a business can’t thrive without a team that feels valued, connected, and aligned with the company’s mission. I've supported organisations in refining their strategies, building stronger cultures, and setting clear, measurable goals that lead to sustainable growth. It's about driving results, yes, but it's also about creating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and motivated to contribute their best.

I’ve guided businesses through times of uncertainty, helped them optimise operations, and empowered teams to achieve things they didn’t think were possible. Growth isn’t just about numbers. It’s about developing a strategic vision, creating an environment of collaboration, and establishing goals that inspire everyone to rise together.

Now, my greatest joy comes from empowering women to lead their own lives and businesses. It’s not just about career success - it’s about living authentically, embracing your power, and shaping the life you deserve. I’ve been where you are, and I know what it feels like to struggle, to doubt yourself, and to feel stuck. But you don’t have to stay there. You can rise. You can reign.

My Vision: Leading with Confidence & Authenticity

Whether you’re just starting your career, considering a bold new direction, or you’ve been on your path for years but feel stuck, it’s never too late to make a change. Your journey is yours to define - and it’s time to take ownership of it.

I’m here to tell you that the road to leadership isn’t linear - it’s a journey. It’s about growth, resilience, and always choosing to rise, no matter the challenge. Your leadership journey starts now. And I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Through authentic leadership, I've seen companies flourish, with employees who are more invested, more loyal, and more motivated to succeed. I work with business leaders to align their vision with actionable steps that foster growth, retention, and profitability. Together, we set measurable goals that lead to tangible results, making sure businesses not only survive but thrive.

Let’s get clear on your goals and build the business you’ve always dreamed of. Growth, retention, and revenue - let’s make it happen, together.

Do Our Stories Align: Let’s Start Your Journey

If you’ve read this far, you’re ready to take the next step. You’ve got dreams to chase, goals to achieve, and a world to conquer. Don’t wait for the “perfect time” because the time is now.

Join us at Rise & Reign, where we’ll work together to help you unlock your true potential. Let’s build the life you deserve—one step at a time. Together, we will rise and reign.