Thinking of a career where you can work independently, express your creativity, and choose your path? Bestselling author and freelance copywriter Sarah Townsend is living proof that self-employment can be both fulfilling and empowering if you have the right mindset.

In this Inspire Future Leaders interview with The Changing Education Group, Sarah shares how she built a thriving freelance business over two decades and how students can begin developing the skills and confidence to follow their paths, one step at a time.

Who is Sarah Townsend, and what does she do?

Sarah Townsend is a UK-based freelance marketing copywriter and the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller Survival Skills for Freelancers. With over 20 years of experience, Sarah has carved out a respected and rewarding career by writing words that work for brands and helping other freelancers thrive.

Since publishing her book, she has expanded her impact by:

• Mentoring aspiring freelancers
• Hosting workshops and events on freelance life
• Supporting the self-employed community with honest advice and lived experience
• Sharing practical tools for resilience, confidence, and growth

Her book has been called “better than a business coach”, and it’s packed with real-world advice from over 100 freelancers.

What is freelance copywriting, and why does it matter?

Copywriting is the craft of writing persuasive, engaging, and informative content for marketing, websites, social media, and more. Freelance copywriters like Sarah work independently with clients across sectors to create clear, compelling content that helps businesses grow.

Freelancers often:

• Work for multiple clients on their own terms
• Write content for websites, brochures, emails, and ads
• Balance creativity with strategic thinking
• Manage their schedules, rates, and business goals

Sarah’s story helps students understand that freelancing isn’t just a backup plan; it can be a brilliant first choice.

What advice does Sarah offer to future freelancers?

Sarah’s insight is grounded in experience, and her advice is both inspiring and refreshingly real.

“If someone offers you an amazing opportunity, even if you don’t know how to do it, say yes and learn how to do it after.”

“It’s only when you step out of your comfort zone that you get that boost in confidence.”
– Sarah Townsend

Her key advice for students:

• Say yes before you’re ready: Growth comes from stretching what you think you can do.
• Invest in self-belief: Confidence builds through doing, not just planning.
• Freelancing is a skill: You can learn how to manage clients, time, and income just like any job.
• Support matters: Don’t go it alone, connect with others and ask for help.

Sarah champions the idea that you don’t need to wait until you feel “ready” – you grow by starting.

Why should students consider freelance or self-employed careers?

The world of work is changing. Freelance and portfolio careers are on the rise, and they offer flexibility, autonomy, and creativity for those who want to chart their own course.

Benefits of freelancing include:

• Control over your schedule and workload
• Opportunities across many sectors and industries
• Ability to work remotely from anywhere
• A chance to build a business around your strengths and interests

Sarah shows that with the right mindset and support, students can thrive as independent professionals in a connected world.

How does this support careers education in UK schools?

Sarah’s experience supports Gatsby Benchmarks 3, 4 and 5, helping schools:

• Address the needs of students considering non-traditional career paths
• Connect English, media, and business studies to real-world freelance roles
• Provide authentic employer insights and inspiration
• Promote resilience, self-management, and communication skills essential for self-employment

Her story is especially valuable for students who want freedom, flexibility, and creativity in their future careers.

Say Yes First, Sarah Townsend’s Message to Future Freelancers

Sarah Townsend’s journey shows that confidence grows through courage and that freelancing can be a powerful, purposeful career path for students willing to try something different.

Her message is clear: if an opportunity excites you, go for it, and figure out the rest as you grow.

Want your students to hear more stories like Sarah’s?
Book a demo and discover how our Work Experience Suite helps schools deliver diverse career insights, including freelance and self-employed pathways.

FAQs

Who is Sarah Townsend?
Sarah is a UK-based freelance copywriter, bestselling author, and mentor who helps self-employed professionals succeed with confidence and clarity.

What is freelance copywriting?
Freelance copywriters write content for businesses, from websites and ads to social posts and newsletters, working independently with a range of clients.

Do you need a degree to become a copywriter?
Not necessarily. Strong writing skills, creativity, and the ability to understand audiences are more important than formal qualifications.

What makes freelancing a good career choice?
Freelancing offers freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to do meaningful work on your own terms, ideal for self-starters and creative thinkers.

How can students start building freelance skills?
They can practise writing, build a portfolio, learn to market themselves, and gain confidence through small projects, internships, or volunteering.