Gem Legacy, a 501c3 nonprofit organization established in 2018 with a steadfast commitment to uplifting artisanal gem mining communities, has recently augmented its advisory council with a cohort of distinguished industry leaders. The expanded council welcomes esteemed personalities: Michelle Graff from National Jeweller, Meghan Margewicz representing JCK Luxury, Lika Behar of Lika Behar Collection, Kate Donovan from AGA, Jennifer Maxwell of Leigh Maxwell Jewelry, Elle Hill from Hill & Co., and Debra Navarro representing Debra Navarro Jewellery.
Complementing the existing members, who have been instrumental in steering Gem Legacy’s course, are Niveet Nagpal representing Omi Gems and Omi Privé, Jonathan and Brecken Farnsworth from Parlé Jewelry Designs, Katherine Bodoh of the American Gem Society, Stuart Robertson from Gemworld International, and Sumit Dangi from Jewellers Mutual.
The council members are devoted to propagating Gem Legacy’s mission and instigating the industry’s commitment to philanthropic endeavors at the grassroots level. They function as esteemed ambassadors for Gem Legacy, passionately advocating for its initiatives. This newly expanded council is poised to actively engage in recruiting new collaborators while fostering partnerships with industry organizations and enterprises, striving to form robust alliances that champion Gem Legacy’s cause.
Expressing enthusiasm about this significant development, Ben Smithee, a pivotal figure on Gem Legacy’s board of directors responsible for the nonprofit’s day-to-day decision-making, emphasized, “The expansion of the Gem Legacy advisory council marks a momentous stride for our industry, the organization itself, and above all, for the communities and businesses that Gem Legacy ardently supports. Our new advocates will lead a unified movement, championing the cause to support the very bedrock of our industry – the communities.”
Gem Legacy, through its committed advisory council, continues to spearhead initiatives that positively impact and uplift the lives of those in artisanal gem mining communities, fostering a spirit of giving back and solidarity within the jewelry industry.
