The Project Management Institute (PMI), a global leader in project success, has announced a partnership with Cannes Lions to establish the LIONS Educators Forum. This global initiative aims to bridge the gap between academia and creative industries, better equipping students for the evolving workforce.
Addressing the Skills Gap
According to a statement from the organization, the forum addresses the increasing need for alignment between classroom instruction and the skills demanded in today's rapidly changing, AI-driven economy. As creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability become essential across all professions, educators and industry leaders have an opportunity to collaborate to ensure students are prepared to succeed.
Core Focus Areas
Menaka Gopinath, Chief Marketing Officer at PMI, outlined the forum's two primary focus areas: developing future-ready curricula and strengthening pathways from education to employment. Through curated discussions, shared insights, and ongoing collaboration, the forum aims to provide educators with the tools, knowledge, and industry access necessary to prepare students for creative careers.
Educators worldwide are invited to join a growing global network built on collaboration, where best practices are openly shared, ideas are challenged, and the collective goal is to prepare the next generation for success.
Leadership and Program Components
The forum will be chaired by Vann Graves, Executive Director of VCU Brandcenter, and guided by a leadership team from Cannes Lions. The program consists of three core components:
- Global Roundtables: Two virtual roundtables each year, in spring and autumn, bringing together educators and industry leaders to explore key challenges and opportunities.
- Cannes Lions In-Person Forum: A dedicated program during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, from June 22 to 26, 2026, hosted at the PMI Cabana, offering educators direct access to industry insights and global best practices.
Steve Latham, Global Head of Strategic Learning Initiatives at Cannes Lions, emphasized that creativity is now one of the most critical skills in the global economy, making the connection between education and industry more vital than ever. The LIONS Educators Forum is designed to close that gap by creating a space for collaboration, insight sharing, and shaping the future together.
