Black in Jewelry Coalition Appoints Five New Board Members, Expanding Leadership and Vision for the Future

(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK, NY — Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC), the nonprofit dedicated to advancing Black professionals within the gem, jewelry, and watch industry, is proud to announce the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors: Thomas Davis, Monalisa DePina, Jamie Batiste, Namwezi Nicole Batumike, and Lavina Hunt-Lewis.

These new board members bring a diverse range of expertise across communications, business development, advocacy, and industry leadership, strengthening BIJC’s mission to promote representation, professional growth, and opportunity through community, education, and strategic partnerships.

Expanding Leadership Through Purpose and Experience

Thomas Davis

Thomas Davis, Vice President of BIJC, brings a wealth of experience to his role as Director of Business Development at Select Jewelry, Inc. and Simone I. Smith. His expertise spans corporate management, specialty retail, manufacturing, merchandising, sales, and celebrity branding. Thomas has worked on high-profile collaborations with notable figures likeProject Runway designer Korto Momolu, and Celebrity Apprentice winner Leeza Gibbons, successfully branding and placing their jewelry lines in retail outlets.

Monalisa DePina

“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 Thomas Davis, Vice President of BIJC.

Monalisa DePina, Secretary of BIJC, is the Retail Account Manager for JCK Las Vegas and JIS Miami with more than 20 years of experience in the jewelry industry, specializing in retail and events. She has a strong track record of building meaningful relationships with retailers and helping elevate their experience at major industry shows. In her role, Monalisa focuses on driving engagement, supporting retailer success, and enhancing event experiences for buyers and exhibitors alike.

“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 Monalisa DePina, Secretary of BIJC.

Jamie Batiste, Communications Chair of BIJC, joins the Board as Head of the Communications Team, bringing a background in radio and television beginning at age 14, followed by experience in medical device sales and over a decade in the jewelry industry. As the founder of Rejected Hearts Club, Batiste has built a storytelling driven brand rooted in connection, healing, and empowerment.

Jamie Batiste

“Stepping into the role of Communications Chair for Black in Jewelry Coalition is deeply meaningful to me. 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 Jamie Batiste, Communications Chair of BIJC.

Namwezi Nicole Batumike, International Committee Chair of BIJC, is a Gender and Responsible Sourcing Specialist at the Congolese non-profit Panzi Foundation. She has worked on developing Panzi’s ethical jewelry brand through initiatives aimed at creating traceable and inclusive mine-to-market approaches with local and international partners. In her current role, she seeks to address the relationship between structural inequalities, Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV), and the mining sector by collaborating with international stakeholders, including U.S.-based companies and policymakers. Namwezi earned a BSc in International Business Management from the University of Applied Sciences in Geneva, a Master’s degree in African Studies from the University of Oxford, and a Master’s degree in Mineral Law in Africa from the University of Cape Town.

Namwezi Nicole Batumike

“I am deeply honored to join the Board of the Black in Jewelry Coalition and serve as International Committee Chair. 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,” said Namwezi Nicole Batumike, International Committee Chair of BIJC.

Lavina Hunt-Lewis, board member of BIJC, serves as the Vice President of Regional Operations at Signet Jewelers, bringing more than 14 years of dedicated leadership and performance growth to the organization. She began her career in 2012 as a seasonal team member at Zales Outlet and has had opportunities for growth throughout her career becoming a Store Manager in 2014, a District Manager in 2017, and a VPRO in 2021.

Lavina Hunt-Lewis

Lavina leads Operations Excellence, championing a culture shift from “I have to” to “I get to,” and is passionate about elevating team-member and customer experiences across the field. She also serves as an Executive Sponsor in Signet’s 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 Lavina Hunt-Lewis, BIJC Board Member.

Each contributes deep industry knowledge and leadership experience, further positioning BIJC to expand its impact, resources, and visibility for Black professionals across the jewelry ecosystem.

“Black in Jewelry Coalition was founded on the belief that community is our greatest strength. 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.” said Elyssa Jenkins-Pérez, President & Co-Founder of BIJC.

Looking Ahead

With the addition of these leaders, BIJC continues to build a future grounded in collaboration, allyship, and collective advancement. In 2026, BIJC will continue expanding its national and international programming, including industry events, professional development initiatives, and increased membership benefits, along with cross-sector partnerships designed to increase access and visibility for Black professionals at every stage of their careers.

For more information, visit blackinjewelry.org or follow BIJC on social media at @BlackInJewelryCoalition