Project LIFT, Session Three
The Power of Networks
In a world being reshaped by AI, disruption, and reinvention, one thing remains constant: the power of human connection.
Project LIFT is a live conversation series hosted by AETHEON: a platform built to help people grow skills, gain agency, and build the future together.
On September 18, we’re spotlighting the incredible force of networks not just alumni circles, but communities built through purpose, trust, and shared experience. You’ll hear from leaders across Nike, Microsoft, Starbucks, and beyond, who have tapped into their networks to grow, adapt, and lead with intention.
This isn’t a corporate panel. It’s a real, honest conversation about how we lift each other and what happens when we do.
Who Should Attend?
- Leaders and builders seeking to tap into or strengthen trusted networks
- Alumni of great brands looking to reconnect and lead what’s next
- Reinvention-seekers and career shifters navigating change
- Organizations exploring new ways to cultivate talent and community
- Anyone who believes that the future of work is personal, social, and purpose-driven
Register for Project LIFT: Session 3
Guides
Jana Panfilio
Nike Alumni | Transformational Brand Leader
Jana is a global brand executive who spent over 20 years at Nike leading breakthrough innovation in brand, retail, and digital. Known for building teams that work with courage and creativity, she’s now helping emerging leaders find clarity, purpose, and forward momentum through the strength of their relationships and values.
Manuela Papadopol
Microsoft Alumni | CEO, Designated Driver | AI & Mobility Visionary
Manuela is a thought leader and trailblazer in AI and mobility, with a career spanning Microsoft, Nuance, and now Designated Driver. She’s redefining how intelligent systems serve humanity—and how meaningful networks help us lead boldly in complex, emerging fields.
Shelli Taylor
Starbucks & GAA Alumni | Former CEO, Alamo Drafthouse | Culture-First Executive
Shelli has led operations and transformation at some of the world’s most iconic companies—including Disney, Starbucks, and Alamo Drafthouse. A lifelong advocate for employee experience and belonging, she brings deep insight into how values-driven networks shape our leadership, our teams, and our futures.
Host & Moderator
Marie Gill
CEO, AETHEON | Founder, Green Apron Alliance | Workforce Futurist
Marie has spent her career creating spaces where people flourish. As a former Starbucks executive and founder of the Green Apron Alliance, she understands the deep power of community. Now, she’s building AETHEON—a platform that helps people uncover their skills, tap into trusted networks, and thrive in a world of constant change.
About
This speaker series is brought to you by the founders of AETHEON: a growing online community built to help you grow future-ready skills, boost your confidence, and thrive in both work and life.
AETHEON exists to help you unlock your unique potential with personalized skill-building experiences, social learning, and actionable insights which are all designed for a world where change is constant.
🚀 If you missed Session 1 of Project LIFT, you can still get all the resources from the speakers on demand and catch up before the next session.
🚀 If you missed Session 2 of Project LIFT, click through and check out what we covered.
✨ Now’s the time to join. Sign up and create your free account at Aetheon.ai — early members who join now will be recognized as Charter Members, unlocking exclusive benefits, certifications, and pricing that won’t be available later.