The 2018 Rising Stars of the Profession: Austre Deharo

Austre DeHaro grew up in Napa Valley, California as the son of immigrants who worked the land to make a living. In high school, DeHaro worked with a state senator on a voter registration program for the underserved, Latin laborers of the community, which earned him a joint commendation from the California Senate and Assembly.

Even at that age, it was obvious his journey was going to be unique. His success in turning ideas into reality catapulted him into a spot at Stanford University, earning a scholarship for half his education. He then spent six years with Accenture in their CRM Global Service Line, taking on leadership roles ahead of his time.

His advice to others—have courage; be brave; be you. "Our individual experience shapes our point of view and expressing new ideas can be disorienting," DeHaro says. "However, embracing difference and unique perspectives, I find that concepts and work efforts mature more quickly than in the echo chamber of conformity. A diversity of ideas and people creates the healthy tension and discourse to drive progress."

DeHaro says he feels the deepest sense of pride when his clients advance their personal and professional agendas "because of our work together, when an engagement results in outcomes achieved and not just a transaction completed," DeHaro says. "I feel energized when collaborating with industry experts and innovation-minded thinkers."

DeHaro's father died of cancer at age 42 when he was nine years old. "I learned the impermanence of life. As I get closer to my own 42nd birthday, I sometimes feel like I myself am running out of time. This award is a powerful reminder that my journey is my own and appreciating significant milestones with friends and family can make time stand still, even if just for a moment."