The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) is poised to make a significant impact at this year’s JCK exhibition, underscoring its commitment to empowering women in the jewellery and watch industries. Founded on the belief in the power of women’s networking, WJA has grown from a small group of visionary women into a leading international organization.
At JCK, WJA will host pivotal discussions that shape the jewellery industry, featuring events like The Jewelry Loupe Project booth and the Generating Community Impact Breakfast. These initiatives aim to engage WJA members and industry professionals actively.
WJA continues to nurture new talent through initiatives such as the Jewelry Loupe Project. This platform helps designers overcome barriers with WJA mentorship, offering invaluable networking opportunities, business insights, and paths to professional growth. The talents of Kelly Lannen and Tamsin Rasor, participants in the Jewelry Loupe Project business accelerator program, will be showcased at the JCK Show’s Design Collective (Booth #10043). Kelly Lannen, creator of 12th HOUSE, specializes in modern talismans and amulets, drawing on her experience in antique restoration and goldsmithing. Tamsin Rasor’s brand reflects her vibrant, playful spirit, combining design, engineering, technology, and fine art, and features contemporary heirloom jewellery inspired by Art Deco design.
In addition to showcasing these designers, WJA will host the Generating Community Impact Breakfast at JCK Vegas on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, supported by the JCK Industry Fund. This third annual fundraising event, held at the Murano Ballroom, Level 3, in the Venetian Convention Center, will focus on “Disability Inclusion in the Jewelry Industry.” Panelists include Laurel Rossi, Matthew Schamroth, and Joanna McElnea, with Monica Elias moderating. Laurel Rossi, CMO of Infillion and CEO and Co-founder of Creative Spirit, advocates for fair-wage employment and inclusive practices. Matthew Schamroth, a fourth-generation diamantaire and partner at M. Schamroth & Sons, focuses on diamond industry standards. Joanna McElnea, Community Manager of Creative Spirit, aims to foster an inclusive and accessible online community for individuals with disabilities.
“WJA is very excited to highlight the exceptional talents of our Jewelry Loupe Project Designers and to engage in meaningful discussions fostering equity and inclusion at JCK,” says Susan Chandler, President of the Women’s Jewelry Association and Chief Merchandising Officer of Citizen Watch America. “Our commitment remains steadfast—empowering women in the jewellery and watch industries while fostering educational and mentorship opportunities for them. Vegas is a key international gathering for the trade and an essential venue to show solidarity and member engagement.”
Guided by its mission to advance women through networking, education, leadership development, and member services, the Women’s Jewelry Association is the premier business networking organization dedicated to enriching and advancing the professional lives of women in the trade. WJA is grateful to JCK, Julius Klein Diamonds, and SHR Jewelry Group for generously sponsoring this event and supporting the organization.
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