The second Fusion Five University will kick off next month with a new location and format that is aimed at helping young professionals thrive in their careers.

The group, affiliated with the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, puts on multiple events throughout the year with structured networking and professional development.

Registration is open, and the program will be 1:30-5 p.m. Sept. 11 at Coushatta Casino Resort. A mixer will be held later that night. The two-day program will conclude 9-11:30 a.m. Sept. 12.

Thursday’s topics will include emerging technology, marketing on a budget, creating presentations, establishing a corporate identity and leaving a job on good terms.

Friday’s presentation will be led by The Pyramid Group’s Brent Henley, who advises for the alliance’s leadership program. He will direct Fusion Five University participants on how to be effective leaders.

“He will help Fusion Fivers find the leader within and develop their leadership potential,” said alliance spokeswoman Amanda White.

“As a young professional you’re not going to be in those entry-level positions for long. It’s about forming these connections and developing the next generation of business leaders. That’s what Fusion Five is all about.”

She said the event’s venue will create a retreat-style environment, so participants “can fully concentrate on learning more.”

Registration is $75 for the more than 200 Fusion Five members and $125 for nonmembers. There are also discounted room rates of $45 for attendees.

For more information, contact White at 433-3632 or awhite@allianceswla.org. To register, visit the calendar of events at www.allianceswla.org. The deadline for registration is Sept. 5.(MGNonline)