MajorsJan 08, 2026
Diamond Council of America Names New Board DirectorsMajorsJan 26, 2026
BIJC Names 5 New Board Members
The new members’ skills span communications, business development, advocacy, and industry leadership.
The Black in Jewelry Coalition has welcomed the following new board members: from left, Thomas Davis, Monalisa DePina, Jamie Batiste, Namwezi Nicole Batumike, and Lavina Hunt-Lewis.
New York—The Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) has appointed five new members to its board of directors.
The new members are Thomas Davis, Monalisa DePina, Jamie Batiste, Namwezi Nicole Batumike, and Lavina Hunt-Lewis.
They bring a diverse range of expertise that spans communications, business development, advocacy, and industry leadership, said BIJC, with skillsets that bolster its mission to promote representation, professional growth, and opportunity through community, education, and strategic partnerships.
Thomas Davis, who also serves as vice president of BIJC, is the director of business development at Select Jewelry, Inc. and Simone I. Smith.
Davis has worked on high-profile collaborations with notable figures like “Project Runway” designer Korto Momolu and “Celebrity Apprentice” winner Leeza Gibbons, getting their jewelry brands into retail stores.
“I’m grateful for the trust placed in me as vice president of the Black in Jewelry Coalition. This role represents both responsibility and opportunity, and I look forward to continuing our work to advance equity, visibility, and meaningful change across the jewelry industry,” said Davis.
Monalisa DePina, who is the secretary of BIJC, is also the retail account manager for JCK Las Vegas and JIS Miami. She has more than 20 years of experience in the jewelry industry, specializing in retail and events.
“Stepping into a BIJC leadership role is both meaningful and humbling. Much of my career has been shaped by the relationships and shared commitment that define this community, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back by supporting BIJC’s mission and continued growth,” said DePina.
Jamie Batiste, who is the communications chair of BIJC, has joined the board as head of the communications team.
Batiste, founder of Rejected Hearts Club, has a background in radio and television as well as sales with more than a decade in the jewelry industry under her belt.
“I’m excited to amplify the voices, stories, and impact of Black professionals across our industry while helping BIJC continue to build connection, visibility, and opportunity. This work matters, and I’m honored to contribute to the growth ahead,” said Batiste.
Related stories will be right here …
The new members are Thomas Davis, Monalisa DePina, Jamie Batiste, Namwezi Nicole Batumike, and Lavina Hunt-Lewis.
They bring a diverse range of expertise that spans communications, business development, advocacy, and industry leadership, said BIJC, with skillsets that bolster its mission to promote representation, professional growth, and opportunity through community, education, and strategic partnerships.
Thomas Davis, who also serves as vice president of BIJC, is the director of business development at Select Jewelry, Inc. and Simone I. Smith.
Davis has worked on high-profile collaborations with notable figures like “Project Runway” designer Korto Momolu and “Celebrity Apprentice” winner Leeza Gibbons, getting their jewelry brands into retail stores.
“I’m grateful for the trust placed in me as vice president of the Black in Jewelry Coalition. This role represents both responsibility and opportunity, and I look forward to continuing our work to advance equity, visibility, and meaningful change across the jewelry industry,” said Davis.
Monalisa DePina, who is the secretary of BIJC, is also the retail account manager for JCK Las Vegas and JIS Miami. She has more than 20 years of experience in the jewelry industry, specializing in retail and events.
“Stepping into a BIJC leadership role is both meaningful and humbling. Much of my career has been shaped by the relationships and shared commitment that define this community, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back by supporting BIJC’s mission and continued growth,” said DePina.
Jamie Batiste, who is the communications chair of BIJC, has joined the board as head of the communications team.
Batiste, founder of Rejected Hearts Club, has a background in radio and television as well as sales with more than a decade in the jewelry industry under her belt.
“I’m excited to amplify the voices, stories, and impact of Black professionals across our industry while helping BIJC continue to build connection, visibility, and opportunity. This work matters, and I’m honored to contribute to the growth ahead,” said Batiste.
Namwezi Nicole Batumike, international committee chair of BIJC, is a gender and responsible sourcing specialist at Congolese nonprofit Panzi Foundation. She also helped to develop its jewelry brand, taking "a traceable and inclusive mine-to-market approach," said BIJC.
She works to address the relationship between structural inequalities, Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, and the mining sector by partnering with U.S.-based companies and policymakers.
“I look forward to working with a team committed to meaningful inclusion, shared opportunity, and responsible engagement, and building stronger connections between jewelers, artisans, and mining communities across Africa and its global diasporas,” she said.
Lavina Hunt-Lewis serves as the vice president of regional operations at Signet Jewelers and is also an executive sponsor in its B.E.N Black Employee Network Resource Group.
“I believe a seat at the table belongs to anyone who works for it; the BIJC has created their own table. To be a part of a movement and mission like the BIJC I find myself in a place of gratitude and also ready to work for a cause that has the ability to close the gap in the jewelry industry,” said Hunt-Lewis.
The industry knowledge and leadership experience of its new board members strengthens BIJC’s ability to expand its impact, resources, and visibility for Black professionals in the industry, said BIJC.
“Black in Jewelry Coalition was founded on the belief that community is our greatest strength,” said Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez, president and co-founder of BIJC.
“Welcoming these new board members builds on our ongoing work to strengthen partnerships, deepen representation, and create real, lasting pathways for professional growth across the jewelry, gem, and watch industry.”
Looking to the year ahead, BIJC said it will continue to expand its national and international programming, including industry events, professional development initiatives, increased membership benefits, and cross-sector partnerships.
She works to address the relationship between structural inequalities, Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, and the mining sector by partnering with U.S.-based companies and policymakers.
“I look forward to working with a team committed to meaningful inclusion, shared opportunity, and responsible engagement, and building stronger connections between jewelers, artisans, and mining communities across Africa and its global diasporas,” she said.
Lavina Hunt-Lewis serves as the vice president of regional operations at Signet Jewelers and is also an executive sponsor in its B.E.N Black Employee Network Resource Group.
“I believe a seat at the table belongs to anyone who works for it; the BIJC has created their own table. To be a part of a movement and mission like the BIJC I find myself in a place of gratitude and also ready to work for a cause that has the ability to close the gap in the jewelry industry,” said Hunt-Lewis.
The industry knowledge and leadership experience of its new board members strengthens BIJC’s ability to expand its impact, resources, and visibility for Black professionals in the industry, said BIJC.
“Black in Jewelry Coalition was founded on the belief that community is our greatest strength,” said Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez, president and co-founder of BIJC.
“Welcoming these new board members builds on our ongoing work to strengthen partnerships, deepen representation, and create real, lasting pathways for professional growth across the jewelry, gem, and watch industry.”
Looking to the year ahead, BIJC said it will continue to expand its national and international programming, including industry events, professional development initiatives, increased membership benefits, and cross-sector partnerships.
Editors' Picks
Sponsored by
More on Majors
The Latest
CrimeFeb 13, 2026
JSA Offering $10K Reward in Nancy Guthrie Case Guthrie, the mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie, was abducted just as the Tucson gem shows were starting.
IndependentsFeb 13, 2026
97-Year-Old New Mexico Jewelry Store To CloseButterfield Jewelers in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is preparing to close as members of the Butterfield family head into retirement.
CollectionsFeb 13, 2026
A ‘Rosebud’ Necklace for Valentine’s DayPaul Morelli’s “Rosebud” necklace, our Piece of the Week, uses 18-karat rose, green, and white gold to turn the symbol of love into jewelry.
Brought to you by
The MJSA Mentor & Apprenticeship Program: Attracting & Training the Next Generation of Bench JewelersLaunched in 2023, the program will help the passing of knowledge between generations and alleviate the shortage of bench jewelers.
CollectionsFeb 12, 2026
British Museum Raises $5M to Keep Jewel Linked to Henry VIII, Katherine of AragonIt is believed the 24-karat heart-shaped enameled pendant was made for an event marking the betrothal of Princess Mary in 1518.
Weekly QuizFeb 12, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
SourcingFeb 12, 2026
‘Cotton Candy’ Necklace, 35-Carat Kunzite Win 2025 ‘Buyer’s Choice’ AwardsThe AGTA Spectrum and Cutting Edge “Buyer’s Choice” award winners were announced at the Spectrum Awards Gala last week.
Events & AwardsFeb 12, 2026
Kering Opens Entries for 2026 Sustainability-Focused AwardThe “Kering Generation Award x Jewelry” returns for its second year with “Second Chance, First Choice” as its theme.
Brought to you by
How Jewelers Can Fight Back Against Cell JammersCriminals are using cell jammers to disable alarms, but new technology like JamAlert™ can stop them.
TrendsFeb 11, 2026
Halle Berry’s Retro Engagement Ring Is a Sapphire-Set StunnerSourced by For Future Reference Vintage, the yellow gold ring has a round center stone surrounded by step-cut sapphires.
MajorsFeb 11, 2026
Francesca’s Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy AgainThe clothing and accessories chain announced last month it would be closing all of its stores.
CollectionsFeb 11, 2026
Zales Turns Sweethearts Into Jewelry for Valentine’s Day CollectionThe “Zales x Sweethearts” collection features three mystery heart charms engraved with classic sayings seen on the Valentine’s Day candies.
TechnologyFeb 11, 2026
Gemvision Symposium 2026 Slated for AprilThe event will include panel discussions, hands-on demonstrations of new digital manufacturing tools, and a jewelry design contest.
Events & AwardsFeb 11, 2026
TJS Announces Roundtable, Launches New AppRegistration is now open for The Jewelry Symposium, set to take place in Detroit from May 16-19.
SourcingFeb 10, 2026
At Meeting in South Africa, Support for Natural Diamonds Picks Up Steam Namibia has formally signed the Luanda Accord, while two key industry organizations pledged to join the Natural Diamond Council.
TrendsFeb 10, 2026
Bad Bunny Wears Football-Shaped ‘Desert Diamond’ for Halftime PerformanceLady Gaga, Cardi B, and Karol G also went with diamond jewelry for Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show honoring Puerto Rico.
SurveysFeb 10, 2026
Shoppers to Spend Big on Jewelry This Valentine’s Day, Says NRFJewelry is expected to be the No. 1 gift this year in terms of dollars spent.
FinancialsFeb 10, 2026
Kering Plans Transformation as 2025 Sales Sink 13%As star brand Gucci continues to struggle, the luxury titan plans to announce a new roadmap to return to growth.
SourcingFeb 10, 2026
AGTA To Debut ‘Stuller Color of the Year’ Spectrum Awards CategoryThe new category asks entrants for “exceptional” interpretations of the supplier’s 2026 color of the year, which is “Signature Red.”
Policies & IssuesFeb 09, 2026
U.S., India Trade Deal One Step Closer to Being FinalizedThe White House issued an official statement on the deal, which will eliminate tariffs on loose natural diamonds and gemstones from India.
Events & AwardsFeb 09, 2026
JA Now Accepting Entries for 2026 CASE AwardsEntries for the jewelry design competition will be accepted through March 20.
IndependentsFeb 09, 2026
James Free Jewelers Unveils Revamped FlagshipThe Ohio jeweler’s new layout features a curated collection of brand boutiques to promote storytelling and host in-store events.
TrendsFeb 09, 2026
These 14 Jewels Will Melt Your Heart This Valentine’s DayFrom heart motifs to pink pearls, Valentine’s Day is filled with jewelry imbued with love.
CrimeFeb 06, 2026
Florida Man Sentenced After Selling Fake Native American Jewelry for a Decade Prosecutors say the man attended arts and craft fairs claiming he was a third-generation jeweler who was a member of the Pueblo tribe.
FinancialsFeb 06, 2026
Pandora’s North America GM Departs Amid Executive ChangesNew CEO Berta de Pablos-Barbier shared her priorities for the Danish jewelry company this year as part of its fourth-quarter results.
TrendsFeb 06, 2026
Margot Robbie, Jacob Elordi Wear Matching Cece Jewellery Signet RingsOur Piece of the Week picks are these bespoke rings the “Wuthering Heights” stars have been spotted wearing during the film’s press tour.
MajorsFeb 05, 2026
Pandora to Begin Selling Platinum-Plated JewelryThe introduction of platinum plating will reduce its reliance on silver amid volatile price swings, said Pandora.
SourcingFeb 05, 2026
De Beers Lowers Production Guidance for 2026, Anglo Mulls Another WritedownIt would be the third impairment charge in three years on De Beers Group, which continues to grapple with a “challenging” diamond market.
