The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) will host its landmark “Future of Forty” Gala on November 13, 2024, at New York’s iconic Guastavino’s, in celebration of women’s achievements in the jewellery and watch industries. This highly anticipated annual event brings together key leaders and rising stars to honour the contributions of women over the past four decades while setting the stage for the future of the trade. With a mission rooted in networking, mentorship, and business development, WJA has built a powerful community in the U.S. since its founding in 1983.

In Australia, the Women in Jewellery (WIJ) Community has recently emerged as a dynamic network dedicated to supporting Australian women in the jewellery sector, taking inspiration from WJA’s strong American presence. WIJ has made significant strides in building a collaborative, supportive network similar to WJA’s, providing Australian women in the industry with mentorship, education, and networking opportunities to empower and foster growth within the jewellery trade.

WJA’s Future of Forty Gala: An Evening of Inspiration

The “Future of Forty” Gala celebrates the legacy of WJA’s founders and the organisation’s impact on women’s careers within the jewellery industry. WJA President Susan Chandler, who is also the Chief Merchandising Officer at Citizen Watch America, shared her excitement for the event, saying, “This gala allows us to honour the legacy of our founders, while pushing our mission forward with renewed passion and creativity.”

Guastavino’s, with its stunning Catalan-vaulted architecture, will serve as the perfect setting for an evening that honours women who have shaped the industry. The event begins with a VIP welcome and red carpet entry, followed by cocktails, an elegant dinner buffet, live music by DJ Renata, and a program spotlighting honorees who exemplify excellence, innovation, and leadership in the field.

The awards presented throughout the evening include:

• Community Award: Awarded to Annie E. Doresca, Chief Financial and Operating Officer at Jewelers of America and founding president of the Black in Jewelry Coalition. Doresca is celebrated for her dedication to inclusivity and positive change, embodying the values of service and collaboration. Her leadership within both her community and the jewellery industry has been transformative, making her an inspiring choice for this award.
• Legacy Award: Alexis Padis, President of Padis Jewelry, receives this honour for her visionary leadership of her family’s jewellery business. Known for her commitment to ethics, community engagement, and continued education, Padis has not only upheld her family’s legacy but also embraced innovation, becoming a role model in the industry.
• Innovator Award: Grant Mobley, Jewelry & Watch Editor for Only Natural Diamonds, is recognised for his transformative impact on the industry. Mobley’s deep knowledge of natural diamonds and his ability to connect with audiences across platforms make him a perfect recipient of this inaugural award.
• Kaiser Award: Terry Chandler, President and CEO of the Diamond Council of America, will receive this award, which honours individuals who embody ethical leadership and dedication to the trade. Chandler’s career spans over 57 years, during which he has played a vital role in elevating industry standards and advancing education for jewellery professionals.

The gala will also feature a fundraiser through “Mystery Boxes,” each containing a luxury item donated by event sponsors, with proceeds going toward the WJA Foundation’s scholarship fund for women pursuing jewellery careers. With supporters like Citizen Watch America, GIA, and Jewelers Mutual, the evening promises to advance WJA’s legacy of fostering opportunity and inclusivity in the industry.

WIJ: Building a Network for Women in Australia

The Women in Jewellery (WIJ) Community in Australia draws on WJA’s successful model, establishing a supportive network dedicated to the needs and goals of Australian women in jewellery. WIJ fosters similar values of collaboration, mentorship, and business development, offering Australian women a platform for growth within their own industry. Through an array of events and initiatives, WIJ has created a thriving community for Australian jewellery professionals at every career stage.

In February, WIJ will host a prominent networking event during the Jewellery Industry Fair in Melbourne, giving Australian women in the trade a unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and learn. By hosting these events, WIJ provides the Australian jewellery sector with the same invaluable opportunities that have been instrumental in WJA’s influence and reach in the United States.

WIJ’s establishment reflects the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the industry and a collective commitment to creating a more inclusive, supportive environment. WIJ’s leaders are committed to strengthening the community for women in Australia by fostering professional connections, encouraging skill development, and amplifying the voices of women across all aspects of the jewellery industry.

An International Inspiration for Women in Jewellery

The WJA’s Future of Forty Gala, coupled with WIJ’s upcoming events, underscores a shared global vision for empowering women in jewellery. With WIJ following in WJA’s footsteps, Australian women now have a dedicated platform to support their career advancement, promote inclusivity, and establish meaningful connections within the industry.

The growing presence of WIJ in Australia, inspired by WJA’s mission, speaks to the powerful impact of community-driven networks that champion women’s achievements, both past and present. As WJA’s Future of Forty Gala reflects on a history of empowerment and looks toward a promising future, WIJ is laying the groundwork for a similar legacy within Australia’s jewellery industry, ensuring women have the support and resources they need to succeed.

Together, WJA and WIJ are paving the way for an empowered, inclusive, and globally connected jewellery industry—one that celebrates craftsmanship, diversity, and the boundless potential of women across the trade.

See the Women in Jewellery – Australia – Gallery here.