Bogolo Joy Kenewendo to Speak at Annual JVC Luncheon
Kenewendo, Botswana’s minister of minerals and energy, will discuss the future of diamonds.

The JVC luncheon will be held on Friday at the Pierre Hotel in New York City.
Minister Kenewendo will discuss the future of diamonds in a fireside chat format with JVC President, CEO, and General Counsel Sara Yood.
Kenewendo played an important role in shaping the 10-year diamond sales agreement between De Beers and the government of Botswana.
After years of back and forth, the two parties recently came to an agreement on how they will split up the country’s diamond production for the next decade, and will soon ink the new deal.
Kenewendo will share her insight into Botswana’s role in the diamond industry, the future of diamond sourcing, and what the U.S. jewelry industry should expect as Botswana increases its direct diamond sales.
“We are honored to host Minister Kenewendo for this critical discussion on the future of diamonds and Botswana’s growing influence in our industry,” said Yood.
“This agreement marks a new era in diamond sourcing, and it’s essential for U.S. jewelry executives to understand the long-term implications. Minister Kenewendo’s firsthand knowledge and strategic insights will provide unparalleled value to our audience.”
Kenewendo is regarded as one of Africa’s most influential economic leaders, said JVC, due to her impact on global trade and development.
She was named a “Time100 Next” honoree in 2022, lauded as an emerging leader “shaping the future of global policy and commerce.”
Kenewendo has led negotiations in several high-profile agreements, including the European Union Economic Partnership Agreement, the United Kingdom Post-Brexit Agreement, and the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.
She has held a number of leadership roles, including chairperson of Bank Gaborone, non-executive director of the Africa Free Trade Area Adjustment Fund Corporation, board member of Ice Benchmark, and as an advisor to governments and international institutions on trade, economic development policy, and climate finance.
Kenewendo has also served on the G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council, the United Nations Secretary-General’s high-level panel on digital cooperation, and the World Economic Forum’s Trade Advisory Group.
The Latest

Editor-in-Chief Michelle Graff answers questions about how the new taxes levied on countries like India and China will impact the industry.

Kenewendo, Botswana’s minster of minerals and energy, discusses closing the deal with De Beers and the work that was missed along the way.

The historic fancy vivid blue diamond set to headline Christie’s Geneva sale next month could sell for up to $50 million.

LVMH CFO Cécile Cabanis also discussed the effects of tariffs so far.


The “Mad Men” and “The Morning Show” star steals jewelry, art, and handbags from his wealthy neighbors in “Your Friends & Neighbors.”

The organization has reelected Kalpesh Jhaveri as president.

Bench jewelers spend years honing their skills, Jewelers of America’s Certification validates their talents.

An investigation found that the former managing director of Movado’s Dubai branch overstated and prematurely recorded sales.

The collection pays tribute to the Japanese philosophy of Ma, studying balance, stillness, and the interplay between presence and absence.

Mari Lou’s Fine Jewelry in Orland Park, a suburb of Chicago, is closing its doors.

GIA’s labs in Dubai and Hong Kong are now accepting larger diamonds in light of the “logistical challenges” presented by the new tariffs.

These earrings by Van Cleef & Arpels, featuring the same design as a pair worn by Princess Grace, are up for auction at Woolley & Wallis.

Two experts share how artificial intelligence tools can help retailers run a more efficient business.

Kentaro Nishimura, who has been with the pearl company since 1997, has been promoted to president and CEO of Mikimoto America.

“America Telling Time: 150 Years of Bulova” explores the storied history of the American watchmaker.

An across-the-board tariff of 10 percent remains in place for all U.S. trading partners, except China.

Brigette Pheloung and Tania Sarin, and their mothers, star in the campaign wearing medallions they co-designed.

LeVian is remembered for her unwavering commitment to her family, community, and helping others.

The new store in the upscale Iguatemi São Paulo mall is the storied brand’s first flagship in Brazil.

The pieces span from the Art Deco period to the 1970s and will go up for auction at the Paris Jewels sale later this month.

The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, who is set to perform at Coachella this month, also debuted a curated selection from the brand.

The introductions include the Land-Dweller, Rolex’s first new model since 2012, as well as several new dials for its classic timepieces.

Cowlishaw earned a degree in horology after serving in World War II, working at one of the first Zales stores in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Bonhams will offer the “Kat Florence Lumina” at its May 22 jewelry auction.

In March 2022, the men went into a jewelry store in Beverly Hills and smashed the display cases with sledgehammers and crowbars.