In a rapidly shifting workforce and cultural landscape, career development professionals are encountering clients who are not only navigating job transitions—but also burnout, disillusionment, and systemic barriers. In this inspiring keynote, Sydney Montgomery (Forbes 30 Under 30, TEDx Speaker, Harvard Law alum) challenges conventional narratives around success, strength, and DEI. Drawing from personal and professional experience, she explores how to reframe resilience, expand our definitions of inclusion, and equip clients to turn adversity into action. Attendees will leave with renewed purpose, actionable tools, and the courage to help others build careers with meaning.

Learning Objectives - 
     Attendees will be able to:

• apply a redefined framework of resilience to support clients through burnout, career transitions, and systemic inequities.
• identify and implement actionable strategies to help clients creatively approach non-linear or unconventional career paths.
• reframe and expand the concept of DEI to include identity, access, and belonging in career advising.
• feel empowered to translate client struggles into career clarity, using story-based coaching and strength-based interventions.

Sydney Montgomery is the Executive Director and Founder of Barrier Breakers, a nonprofit with a mission to increase access to, and success in, higher education for first-generation students and others who face barriers to entry. Barrier Breakers has helped more than 7,000 students receive over $490M in scholarships in college and law school admissions. As the daughter of military and immigrant parents and as a lower-income college student, Sydney battled insecurities, financial challenges, and debilitating chronic illnesses to defy societal labels and expectations. Now, as a TEDx Speaker and Forbes 30 under 30 entrepreneur Sydney inspires others to believe in themselves, find their voice, and confidently pursue their goals no matter their background or obstacles. Sydney holds a B.A. in English from Princeton University, a J.D. from Harvard Law School, a Master of Theological Studies from Princeton Theological Seminary, a Certificate in Independent Educational Consulting from UC Irvine, and a Certificate in Anti-Racism in Urban Education from UNC Charlotte. Sydney is a member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council and has been featured in Inc., Forbes, US News, Medium, CNBC and others.