(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK, NY — The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) announced a series of strategic collaborations and initiatives launching in 2026 that strengthen the organization’s focus on professional development, mentorship, and community connection for women working across the jewelry and watch industries, alongside a refreshed brand identity reflecting WJA’s modern direction and continued evolution.
“WJA’s role in the industry has always been to create meaningful opportunities for women to advance, connect, and lead,” said Gabrielle Grazi, Executive Chair, Women’s Jewelry Association. “Our dynamic collaborations reinforce that commitment by expanding leadership development, structured mentorship, and community engagement — ensuring that women at every career stage have access to the resources, guidance, and professional networks that support long-term success.” We are anchored in our shared mission and purpose and are investing sponsorship funds in programs that aim to build the skills and capabilities of the women who will contribute and lead the future of the jewelry and watch industry.
WJA x Luminary will serve as a leading initiative for the year, offering curated programming that supports leadership readiness and peer connection. WJA Professional, Global, and Business Members will receive access to Luminary as part of their membership benefits. The initiative launched with a virtual fireside chat on January 14, 2026, featuring Luminary Founder Cate Luzio, WJA President, Executive Chair Gabrielle Grazi, and NYC Metro Mentorship Chair, Cut + Clarity Founder Mariana S. Russo.
“WJA’s rebrand underscores the power of community in driving both personal and professional growth. Through our partnership, Luminary is proud to support WJA members with expanded access to education, programming, networks, and resources designed to help members thrive across every phase of their business and careers.” Cate Luzio, CEO and Founder Luminary
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WJA x Mentoro will introduce a cohort-based mentorship experience for industry professionals, including one-to-one mentorship, leadership workshops, and a launch cocktail event and executive panel in March 2026, The mentee application process is now open through February 12th, 2026. An esteemed roster of mentors from jewelry, watch and supporting industry professionals has been assembled
“At Mentoro, we believe that mentorship is a simple yet powerful way to pay it forward – one coffee at a time. Our partnership with the Women’s Jewelry Association is a natural alignment of values, rooted in the belief that true leadership is about leaving a legacy of knowledge to future generations. Together, we’re creating meaningful opportunities for seasoned executives to share their experiences and wisdom, and for young professional women in the industry to rise with confidence, guidance and purpose.” Sandra Abi-Rashed, Co-Founder Mentoro
WJA launched a modernized brand update, with a refreshed website introducing a more contemporary visual identity that evolves alongside the organization and reinforces its role as a leading professional resource for women across the jewelry and watch industries.
NEW WEBSITE LINK: https://www.womensjewelryassociation.com/
Additional initiatives include enhancements to WJA’s community leadership model, investment in digital and communications infrastructure, and continued expansion of virtual programming in addition to the education, scholarships, grants and internships through the WJA Foundation — building on the strategic groundwork established in 2025 and supporting the next phase of organizational growth.
