Gen Next: Real Talk with the Founders Redefining What’s Next
About the Event
Gen Z isn’t following the playbook they’re writing a new one.
Gen Next is an evening built around real talk, real stories, and real connection. It’s a celebration of the builders, creators, and dreamers reshaping how we work, build community, and define success.
We’ll explore the stories behind the headlines, the pivots, the side hustles, the moments of doubt that led to breakthroughs. Come to listen, learn, and connect with a community that’s creating the future together, one honest conversation at a time.
You’ll leave with energy, perspective, and maybe even a few new collaborators.
Who Should Attend
This night is for:
✨ Founders, creators, and early-career professionals shaping what’s next
💼 Corporate innovators and investors eager to understand Gen Z’s mindset
💡 Anyone looking to build something new
Meet the Panel
🎤 Colin Rocker – The First-Gen Guide (Moderator)
Content creator and career coach helping first-generation professionals navigate work, imposter syndrome, and growth through storytelling that’s honest, funny, and real. Colin brings a unique ability to draw out insights that remind people they already have what it takes.
💡 Danielle Farage – The Visionary Connector
Work futurist and storyteller bridging leaders and Gen Z talent to build inclusive, dynamic workplaces. Danielle’s work centers on empathy, belonging, and redesigning the world of work through community.
💻 Paden Gayle – The Tech Climber
Software Engineer at Google who broke in without a computer-science degree. Paden’s story proves that curiosity, consistency, and courage matter more than credentials, and he’s paying it forward by mentoring others on the same path.
🚀 Vivek Pandit – The Cultural Disruptor
Forbes 30 Under 30 founder and TEDx speaker helping brands engage Gen Z through creator-led campaigns and mindset coaching. Vivek’s mission: turn authenticity into an advantage.
📖 Morgan Young – The Strategic Storyteller
Technologist, creator, and founder whose journey began at Disney and evolved into a career at the intersection of technology, media, education, and impact. Morgan’s work empowers the next generation to see their own stories as catalysts & launchpads to push their potential and achieve more than they ever thought possible.
Evening Flow
6:00 – 6:30 PM — Arrival & Connection
Set the vibe. Meet someone new. Grab a drink and check out the Future of Work Wall, where attendees post side hustles, goals, and collaboration ideas.
6:30 – 7:20 PM — The Conversation + Audience Q&A
A candid, high-energy discussion on how Gen Z works and what’s next.
7:20 – 8:00 PM — Community Time
Keep the conversations going. Meet collaborators, mentors, and maybe your next big idea.
Getting There:
We'll be at Fabrik (12-16 Vestry St), a beautiful loft in Tribeca with plenty of open space for connecting with other professionals in NYC. The entrance is at the end of Vestry Street (follow the cobblestones!). We'll be on the 4TH FLOOR, and we’ll have volunteers posted nearby to make sure you're in the right place.
RSVP Notice
Space is limited. RSVPs will be reviewed, and confirmed guests will receive final event details.
About Your Hosts
Fabrik
Fabrik is a home for communities where everyone has a place to belong. With spaces designed to feel more like your living room than your office, Fabrik’s social spaces are vibrant hubs where people can come together in real life, explore interests, forge meaningful connections, and build a sense of community.
J.P. Morgan Innovation Economy Startup Banking
J.P. Morgan Innovation Economy Startup Banking partners with founders, innovators, and early-stage companies to help them scale, thrive, and connect with the resources they need to succeed. Beyond banking, they foster meaningful connections and support the next generation of entrepreneurs shaping the future of business and culture.
GoLinkUp
GoLinkUp turns your network into your superpower. Your connections plus AI surface jobs, including hidden opportunities, with the greatest chance of success. Instead of spending hours searching and hoping for the right connection, you can focus on what matters: high-value opportunities with people you know in companies that care about your experience. GoLinkUp isn’t just a tool. It’s a community-powered way to explore the next big thing with clarity, confidence, and a little bit of magic.
This event will be photographed and filmed. Fabrik and our partners reserve the right to use photos and video from the event for marketing and communications purposes. By attending the event, you consent to the use of your image for these purposes.
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