Cocktails and Conversations

One evening. Real CONVERSATIONS WITH CHARLESTON LEADERS.Join Trident United Way’s Cocktails & Conversations, a curated networking experience designed for emerging and mid-career professionals across the Tri-County. Instead of traditional networking, guests rotate through small-group conversation tables hosted by respected local leaders, giving you the opportunity to engage directly, ask questions, and build meaningful connections. The evening includes dinner and a keynote address from:  Shawan Gillians, Chief Strategy & Communications Officer, Santee Cooper, On how community leadership accelerates professional influence. Every guest will rotate through conversation tables, gaining insights from respected local leaders, exploring topics such as: Amy Stasiukaitis, Low Country Case and Millwork: How to balance personal commitments with professional growth Lauren Nilan, Principal, Elliott Davis: How to elevate without burning out Natalie Hauff, Deputy Director, Charleston County Library: How to build your personal brand Kelleanne and Ryan Jones, Free Reign Restaurant Group (Allora, Southbound, Honeysuckle Rose, Community Table): Making difficult decisions in business Lindsay Nevin, CEO, The Flyaway Company: How to take risks in business Joesph DeLeon, CEO,  Roper St Francis: How to set yourself apart Michael Samuel, Commercial Banking Relationship Manager, SouthState Bank and MikeSam Fitness: The Art of the Side Hustle DJ Hampton, CEO, Trident United Way: Biggest Leadership Mistake, and what I learned Giff Daughtridge, CEO, GFD Management: Leading with Confidence, how to talk to your leadership