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

Michael Samuel, Commercial Banking Relationship Manager, SouthState Bank and MikeSam Fitness: The Art of the Side Hustle

Jerome Smalls, City of Charleston: The power of community within professional development

Giff Daughtridge, CEO, GFD Management: Leading with Confidence, how to talk to your leadership

Melanie Stith, Owner, Culture Wins, LLC, and board chair, Trident United Way: Building a culture of purpose: Why giving back matters at work