The Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC), an organization committed to promoting Black professionals within the jewelry, gemstone, and watch sectors, proudly announces the addition of five new members to its Board of Directors. These esteemed individuals\u2014Thomas Davis, Monalisa DePina, Jamie Batiste, Namwezi Nicole Batumike, and Lavina Hunt-Lewis\u2014bring a wealth of diverse expertise spanning communications, business growth, advocacy, and industry leadership. Their collective experience is set to significantly enhance BIJC's mission of championing representation, career progression, and expanded opportunities through robust community engagement, educational programs, and strategic alliances.
These newly appointed board members are poised to significantly impact BIJC\u2019s strategic direction and outreach. Thomas Davis, the new Vice President, brings extensive experience from his role as Director of Business Development at Select Jewelry, Inc. and Simone I. Smith, specializing in corporate management, retail, manufacturing, sales, and celebrity branding. Monalisa DePina, stepping in as Secretary, leverages over two decades in the jewelry industry, particularly in retail and event management, to build strong relationships and enhance experiences at major industry shows. Jamie Batiste, the Communications Chair, contributes a rich background in media and a decade in jewelry, focusing on storytelling to empower and connect Black professionals. Namwezi Nicole Batumike, as International Committee Chair, offers profound insights into gender and responsible sourcing, particularly in the mining sector, drawn from her work with the Panzi Foundation and her extensive academic background. Finally, Lavina Hunt-Lewis joins as a board member, bringing her 14 years of leadership in regional operations at Signet Jewelers, where she champions operational excellence and supports diversity initiatives through the Black Employee Network Resource Group.