Uplift Mentorship Expert Session with Aerica Shiso Banks

​Aerica Shimizu Banks is a tech policy expert, inclusion innovator, and creative entrepreneur. She is the founder of Shiso, a consultancy that applies an intersectional equity lens to build new programs, policies, and systems with impact.

​After experiencing the triumphs and trials of tech – building successful DEI programs at Google and then holding Pinterest accountable for its racism and sexism – she now creates systems and frameworks to elevate and restore equity in our institutions at her firm.

​A Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneur, a Root 100 Listmaker, and a Washingtonian Magazine Tech Titan, Aerica's career is a testament to the values she lives by in her personal and professional life. In her personal capacity, she served on President Biden's Innovation Policy Committee, helped pass the Silenced No More Act in California, and endorsed the Algorithmic Accountability Act.

​Professional highlights include founding Pinterest's DC office, leading federal affairs, and spearheading diversity and equity initiatives on Google's legal team. Additionally, she served as the Black small business liaison for the DC area, co-founded BEACON: The DC Women Founders Initiative, and held a political appointee position in the Obama Administration. She holds an MSc in Environmental Policy from Oxford University and a BA in Environmental Studies and Public Affairs from Seattle University.

​This is a live learning session with a subject matter expert in entrepreneurship, technology, or business leadership. Includes open Q&A. Sessions are recorded for cohort members who cannot attend live.