Furthering the mission to unite and empower women in the trade, the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) and the WJA Foundation, are collaborating through a new nonprofit affiliation agreement. Through the new partnership, the WJA National President will cooperate and oversee the direction of the Foundation, alongside the new Foundation governing board Vice President, Treasurer, and VP Communications.
The move, which has been in development since 2022 by the WJA executive committee, marks a milestone in developing a more cohesive organizational structure for the WJA. By creating a direct alliance, operational efficiency will increase, with greater opportunities to fundraise for member grants and scholarships.
Select WJA Programs, such as The Jewelry Loupe Project, a six-month accelerator project for emerging designers, will become a part of the WJA Foundation, allowing more flexibility and growth options for corporate sponsorships to support initiatives, in addition to scholarships and grants.
In seamlessly bringing together sides of the organization, Gabrielle Grazi assumes the new role of WJA National President-Elect, after serving as the President of the WJA Foundation, where she contributed significantly to furthering the WJA’s mission of offering educational and business opportunities for women, enabling them to achieve their full career potential.
Grazi, who is also VP, Head Retail Strategy and Partnerships of the Natural Diamond Council, says, “With the alignment of the Association and Foundation we will continue to both provide and maximize opportunities for networking, professional development and financial support for all WJA members who are beginning, advancing or enriching their careers and who are looking to make an impact in our industry.”
Heera Zhaveraat (HZ International) A Diamond, Watch and Jewellery Trade Promotion Magazine provide dealers and manufactures with the key analytical information they need to succeed in the luxury industry. Pricing, availability and market information in the Magazine provides a critical edge.
