From Quiet to Iconic: Mastering the Power of Self-Advocacy

6 Lessons I Wish I Knew Sooner from Icons Who Only Need One Name

Fifteen years ago, I walked into my first real job with ambition, work ethic and a quiet hope that someone would notice. But I also carried a quiet insecurity about hearing my name—KeShia—mispronounced, misunderstood or questioned. I stayed late, said yes to everything and focused on proving myself without standing out too much.

And yet, I watched others—louder, less qualified, more connected—move onward and upward like it was nothing. I thought if I kept my head down and performed, my time would come. 

What I didn’t know then—what I wish someone had told me—was this:

Being good isn’t enough. You have to move like you know who you are.  

These days? I move different. Not louder, just clearer. Like I’m proud of my name. And I want the up-and-coming SIA RISE leaders in our industry to know, especially women and people of color, to learn this sooner than I did. 

So here’s what I’ve learned, through experience and by watching those one-name icons who never waited to be seen. 

1. Beyoncé: Master the Craft, Then Own the Room

Beyoncé isn’t everywhere, but when she moves, the world pauses. That’s not by accident. It’s by intention. She spent years mastering her craft and now she leads with quiet confidence. 

Lesson: Being “low key” isn’t a strategy if it keeps you small. You don’t have to shout, but you do have to show. Let people know what you’re building. Put your name on your work. Take credit with grace. 

Fifteen years ago, I would’ve told you I didn’t want to seem “too much.” Now? I know better. 

2. Malala: Bravery Over Perfection

Malala didn’t wait for the perfect circumstances to speak out—she used her voice for girls’ education, despite her young age and great danger. Her courage turned her into a global icon, proving that impact comes from bravery, not having everything figured out.

Lesson: Don’t wait for perfection to act or be heard. Visibility isn’t about being flawless—it’s about showing up, speaking up and advocating for change.

I used to think visibility was about waiting for the right moment, title or gray hair. Now I know that bold visibility and change are possible at every phase, age and tenure. 

3. Rihanna: Pivot With Purpose 

Rihanna walked away from music at her peak—and then shook the beauty industry to its core with Fenty. She didn’t just chase success—she redefined it on her terms. 

Lesson: You are allowed to outgrow your current title, your current dream. Don’t box yourself in. Make bold moves, even if people don’t get it yet. 

Leaving a role once felt like failure to me. Now I know sometimes it means freedom. 

4. Constantine: Lead With Style, Speak With Spark 

In every room, Constantine arrives fully formed – sharp suit, sharper wit and the kind of confidence that makes people lean in. As a well-known figure within the SIA RISE community, he exemplifies leading with presence and authenticity. For those outside the community, think of him as someone who doesn’t blend in—he curates presence. 

Lesson: Your style is a part of your strategy. Show up like you belong and like you’re hosting. The world pays attention to those who clearly enjoy being themselves. 

I used to tone myself down to fit the room. Constantine reminds me it’s better to light it up. 

5. Zendaya: Be the Blueprint, Not the Mold 

Zendaya defies industry boxes—actor, producer, fashion icon, activist—while protecting her peace and values. 

Lesson: You don’t have to fit the mold. You can build a career that looks like you, not any one else. 

I once chased templates for success. Now I create my own! 

6. Oprah: Own Your Voice, Then Amplify Others

Oprah turned curiosity and compassion into a media empire. But she also changed the game by creating space for others. 

Lesson: Your voice has value—but your power multiplies when you help others rise. Find your platform, then share it. 

I thought success was a solo race. Now I know it’s a relay—and part of my job is passing the baton.

Final Word: Your Name is Enough

I used to think my one-name kind of name—KeShia—had to be softened, explained, reshaped to fit the room. Now I know: it’s a brand. It’s a presence. It’s a story. 

So this is for every young pro showing up, unsure if they’re seen: 

• You don’t have to wait your turn. 
• You don’t have to shrink. 
• You don’t have to hustle in silence hoping for recognition. 

Move like you know who you are…(or like a one-name icon). 

Because when you do, the world starts to know too.

Companion Tool: The “Advocating For Yourself Like An Icon” Personal Power Audit

Own your space. Elevate your voice. Be unignorable.

 Purpose: Help young professionals assess how clearly and confidently they’re showing up in their careers—and identify actionable steps to increase visibility, presence and self-advocacy. 

SECTION 1: Visibility Check 

• I regularly speak up in meetings or share my perspective. 
• My key accomplishments from the past six months are documented and shared with my manager or team. 
• My LinkedIn or portfolio reflects the kinds of opportunities I want next. 
• I’ve been publicly recognized or nominated for my work in the last year. 

SECTION 2: Brand Alignment 

• I can clearly describe what I do, why I do it and what makes me different. 
• I know the 3 words I want people to associate with my name. 
• My communication style (in person, online and in email) reflects my values and goals. 
• I’ve asked for feedback about how others perceive my strengths and contributions.

SECTION 3: Network and Influence 

• I have a mentor, sponsor or advocate who supports my growth. 
• I’ve invested time in building relationships outside my immediate team. 
• I know who the decision makers are in my org/industry—and I’ve made myself known to them. 
• I’ve referred, supported or lifted someone else up in the past month. 

SECTION 4: Belief and Boldness 

• I’ve taken a stretch opportunity or risk in the past 6 months. 
• I correct or push back (respectfully) when my value is minimized. 
• I believe I belong in the spaces I’m in—even when I feel uncomfortable. 
• I’ve shared my career goals openly—with people who can help me get there. 

Next Step: Power Moves Plan 

Based on your checklist, identify three Iconic Power Moves to take in the next 30 days. These could include: 

• Asking for a meeting with a mentor or leader
• Rewriting your bio or LinkedIn summary
• Practicing a “wins” pitch for your next review or check-in
• Saying no to something that doesn’t serve your growth

The views and opinions expressed in guest posts and/or profiles are those of the authors or sources and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Security Industry Association.

This article originally appeared in RISE Together: A Newsletter for Emerging Security Leaders, presented by SIA’s RISE community.