Confidence doesn't always come naturally, especially when you grow up rarely seeing people like you represented in leadership, media, or success stories. In a world where visibility often determines opportunity, learning how to show up fully becomes essential. Sheena Yap Chan, a keynote speaker, leadership strategist, and author, shares powerful insights on confidence, identity, and visibility, particularly for Asian women navigating personal and professional spaces.
Growing up in Canada, Sheena often felt the absence of representation. There were few role models in media or leadership positions who looked like her, and that lack quietly shaped what felt "possible." Over time, she realised that confidence isn't just an internal trait—it's deeply influenced by what we see around us.
This realisation led her to create The Tao of Self Confidence podcast, where she has interviewed over 800 Asian women. By amplifying real stories, struggles, and successes, Sheena highlights how representation helps people believe that they, too, belong in spaces of leadership and influence.
One of Sheena's key contributions to leadership development is her VISIBLE Framework, a seven-pillar model designed to help individuals build confidence and presence. Each pillar focuses on a different aspect of growth, including finding your voice, embracing your identity, working through inner beliefs, and leveraging support systems.
Rather than encouraging perfection, the framework focuses on authenticity, showing up as you are while continuing to grow. It also emphasises the importance of lifting others as you rise, creating a ripple effect of confidence and visibility within communities.
Sheena openly discusses how cultural expectations can limit self-expression, especially in Asian households where humility and silence are often rewarded. While these values have meaning, they can sometimes discourage people from speaking up or taking risks.
Instead of waiting until everything feels "ready," Sheena encourages a "ready, fire, aim" approach, taking action first and adjusting along the way. Confidence is built through experience, not perfection, and visibility grows when we allow ourselves to be seen before we feel completely prepared.
Confidence and visibility are learnable skills, not personality traits
Representation plays a critical role in shaping belief and ambition
Action builds confidence faster than waiting for perfection
Strong networks and community support accelerate growth
Sheena Yap Chan's journey is a reminder that confidence doesn't come from fitting in, it comes from owning who you are. By challenging limiting beliefs, embracing visibility, and sharing stories that matter, individuals can create meaningful impact not only for themselves but for others who are still finding their voice. Confidence, when practiced intentionally, becomes a powerful tool for leadership and change.
You can find more information about her, her work and her books on her website - https://www.sheenayapchan.com/.
