Motivational Keynote Speaker

Unmute Yourself

A high-energy, story-driven keynote that helps audiences overcome self-doubt, embrace their voice, and take courageous action.

Unmute Yourself is a powerful, high-energy keynote designed to help individuals stop holding back and start leading with purpose, clarity, and confidence. Through vulnerable storytelling, real-life lessons, and practical strategies, Mariana helps audiences break through self-doubt, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome — and take action, even if their voice shakes.

This keynote is ideal for conferences, leadership retreats, planning and team building days, corporate events, and public sector programs seeking to inspire meaningful change and empower people to lead from wherever they are.

Mariana Marcano speaking at a government team planning day, inspiring leaders to take confident action

Learning outcomes:

  • Tools to overcome imposter syndrome and perfectionism
  • Clarity on personal purpose and core values
  • Reframing failure as growth
  • Courage to speak up, lead, and act — no matter the title
  • A renewed mindset for confidence and self-leadership

Based in Canberra, Mariana travels interstate to speak at live events and also delivers high-impact keynotes virtually across Australia and internationally. Whether it’s a packed ballroom or a remote team tuning in online, Unmute Yourself is designed to connect, energise, and move audiences to action.

Mariana Marcano Franco delivering her Unmute Yourself keynote at a leadership conference in Canberra

What sets Mariana apart?

  • Real stories, not empty motivation – Mariana blends authenticity, light humour, and practical tools to inspire lasting change.
  • Multicultural lens – A Latina speaker with global experience across government, corporate, and not-for-profit sectors.
  • Award-winning communicator – Three-time Toastmasters champion with a proven ability to engage and move audiences.
  • Actionable takeaways – Attendees walk away empowered with strategies they can use immediately.
  • Relatable and real – From Captain Courage to Señorita Should, her keynote is memorable, human, and impactful.
Motivational speaker Mariana engaging the audience during an interactive keynote on confidence and leadership

Bring Unmute Yourself to your audience

If you're looking for an inspirational keynote that sparks clarity, confidence and courageous action — let’s chat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What topics does Mariana cover in her keynote?

Mariana’s signature keynote Unmute Yourself focuses on confidence, courageous leadership, purpose-driven action, and overcoming imposter syndrome and perfectionism. It’s perfect for teams and audiences navigating change, self-doubt, or visibility challenges, especially in corporate, not-for-profit and public sector, and women-in-leadership spaces.

2. What’s the ideal format and length for the keynote?

Unmute Yourself is highly flexible and can be delivered as a 45–60 minute keynote (most commonly 45 minutes), followed by optional Q&A or audience interaction. Mariana adapts the flow and timing to suit your agenda — whether you need a powerful opener, an energising post-lunch reset, or a standout closer.

3. Where does Mariana speak? Can she travel or present virtually?

Mariana is based in Canberra and travels interstate, and is fully equipped to deliver virtual keynotes worldwide. Whether in-person or online, she brings the same energy, engagement, and impact to every event.

4. What makes Mariana different from other motivational speakers?

Mariana blends powerful storytelling, practical tools, and real-world leadership insight. Audiences say they leave not just inspired — but transformed. With her multicultural lens, bold authenticity, and award-winning speaking style, Mariana connects deeply with diverse audiences and delivers messages that stick.

5. Does Mariana customise her keynote for our audience or theme?

Absolutely. Mariana works closely with you to understand your audience, event goals, and key themes. She tailors content, reflection moments, and language to ensure Unmute Yourself speaks directly to your group’s challenges and aspirations.