how to overcome shyness.

Everyone will be nervous in front of public, especially in some important speech. It is not your own problem. But nervous is in some certain good for your performance as long as you can manage your emotions. Tell yourself that it is just a talk, simple speaking with a couple of same human beings as you. You are no differences, just be confident to speak loudly!

Well... I think you've already answered yourself... You said you're not really shy infront of people you're familiar with... Try having your friends & family bring one person you don't know everytime you guys get together... If you're hainging out with your friends, have just one of them bring one person you don't know or you're not too familiar with... Then forcus on people that you know, not the person you don't... Do that enough times & you'll get used to talking infront of people you don't know in no time...

I think the most important aspect to overcoming inner feelings of shyness is to have confidence within yourself and your own abilities. Be confident of who you are and what you are capable of. And remember we are all human beings and are all equal.