The Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) has unveiled its new initiative, the BIJC Education Fund, alongside two key leadership changes.
The newly established 501(c)(3) foundation aims to increase educational opportunities, provide mentorship, and open career pathways for young people and underserved communities interested in the jewelry industry.
Jewelry designer Malyia McNaughton, who has been serving as BIJC’s board president, will step down from her role to lead the new fund. McNaughton has a strong background in philanthropy and workforce development, having worked with AmeriCorps and Club Esteem. Her unique blend of creative and community leadership will support the fund’s mission, said BIJC. McNaughton also serves as a keynote speaker and panelist at educational events, including those hosted by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), where she inspires the next generation of jewelers.
Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez, head of North American development at the Responsible Jewellery Council, will succeed McNaughton as the new BIJC president.
The BIJC Education Fund is designed to spark passion, nurture creativity, and create career opportunities. It will provide hands-on training, mentorship, and skill development, as well as collaborate with industry professionals and educational institutions to create a more inclusive and diverse future, according to the organization.
The fund has already partnered with the Brooklyn STEAM Center in the Brooklyn Navy Yard and Baldwin High School in Long Island, where it runs the Future Jewelers Academy. This jewelry-focused education program, aimed at high school students, was launched last spring and has already served over 30 students, with plans for further expansion.
The BIJC Education Fund board of directors includes McNaughton, who will continue her involvement, along with gemologist Adrianne Sanogo as vice president, Lisa Jones from GIA as secretary, and board members Jenkins-Pérez and Reggie Johnson, SVP at Signet Jewelers. The team brings a wealth of experience and passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping guide the foundation in scaling its impact.
“The jewelry industry is facing a critical challenge,” McNaughton stated. “Thousands of skilled bench jeweler positions are unfilled, creating a gap that jeopardizes the future of American craftsmanship. Our foundation is committed to tackling this labor shortage by investing in education, apprenticeship programs, and workforce development to ensure the industry remains strong for years to come.”
Jenkins-Pérez, who has a strong background in membership engagement, operations, and marketing, expressed excitement about her new role. “It’s an incredible honor to serve as president of BIJC as we enter this new chapter. Our theme, ‘Rooted in Community, Rising Together,’ reflects the legacy we’ve built and the future we are shaping. I’m committed to advancing equity, opportunity, and representation across the gem, jewelry, and watch industries.”
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