(Press Release) Diamond Development Initiative (DDI) announced a contribution from the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) in support of its efforts to transform the artisanal and small-scale mining sector, improve the conditions of artisanal diamond miners and their families and to promote responsible sourcing.
“AWDC has been a longstanding and reliable partner,” said Dorothée Gizenga, executive director of DDI. “Their support enables DDI to continue its efforts to formalize the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in ways that benefit miners, their communities and local economies.”
Stephane Fischler, president of AWDC, said, “Artisanal mining accounts for almost 20 per cent of diamond production. Supporting DDI is the best way we know to ensure that programs are being implemented to ensure that artisanal production respects standards for human rights, health and safety, and environmental sustainability.”
Ari Epstein, CEO of AWDC, said, “Our collaboration with DDI is significant for us. Through DDI, we are able to contribute to the social and economic development of artisanal diamond miners, who are important participants in the diamond supply chain.”
Four Decades of Excellence: How Wilkerson Transformed a Jeweler's Retirement into Celebration
After 45 years serving the Milwaukee community, Treiber & Straub Jewelers owner Michael Straub faced a significant life transition. At 75, the veteran jeweler made a personal decision many business owners understand: "I think it's time. I want to enjoy my wife with my grandchildren for the next 10, 15 years."
Wilkerson's expertise transformed this major business transition into an extraordinary success. Their comprehensive approach to managing the going-out-of-business sale created unprecedented customer response—with lines forming outside the store and limits on how many shoppers could enter at once due to fire safety regulations.
The results exceeded all expectations. "Wilkerson did a phenomenal job," Straub enthuses. "They were there for you through the whole thing, helped you with promoting it, helping you on day-to-day business. I can't speak enough for how well they did." The partnership didn't just facilitate a business closing; it created a celebratory finale to decades of service while allowing Straub to confidently step into his well-earned retirement.
