Nikia Levesque Joins WJA Board as Foundation VP

New York—The Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) announced Nikia Levesque has been appointed vice president of the organization’s philanthropic arm, the WJA Foundation. 

Levesque brings a decade of industry experience to the role, as well as a dedication to advancing women’s careers and a proven track record of leadership and innovation, WJA said.

"Nikia brings a dynamic blend of industry expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering women,” said Susan Chandler, WJA president and chief merchandising officer for Citizen Watch America. 

“Her leadership will undoubtedly propel the WJA Foundation's mission forward, inspiring countless women to reach new heights in their jewelry careers."

Levesque is currently the vice president of marketing at Day's Jewelers, where she oversees the company's brand strategy, market development, and advertising initiatives.

She began working with the retailer while in high school, starting out in the service department.

Her expertise today spans marketing strategy, brand management, social media marketing, and customer relationship management.

Throughout her tenure at Day's Jewelers, Levesque has spearheaded projects such as launching the retailer’s new Shopify website, playing a pivotal role in the platform migration and site build.

She has also worked on developing a comprehensive brand book and coordinating strategic partnerships with brands like Maine-based company Sea Bags, which sells accessories made from repurposed sails.   

Her ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results has been instrumental in elevating Day's Jewelers' brand presence and achieving key organizational objectives, WJA said.

Levesque was also recognized in the 2023 class of Jewelers of America’s “20 Under 40,” which is currently recruiting for its next class.  

“I am deeply honored to assume the role of vice president for the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation Board. This organization has a rich history of empowering women in the jewelry industry, and I am committed to advancing its mission of fostering education, mentorship, and opportunities for women,” Levesque said. 

“Having started in this industry at the young age of 16, I am particularly grateful for the invaluable guidance and support I received from women who paved the way before me. Now, as I step into this leadership role, I am eager to give back and continue learning from the remarkable women in our industry. Together with the dedicated members of the board, I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of WJA, as we continue to inspire and support women in our vibrant and dynamic industry.” 

WJA also announced the appointment of the following new board members:

Brittany Merrill, general merchandise manager, DVP for Helzberg Diamonds; 
Elda Fistani, vice president of retail sales for Gabriel & Co.; 
Tracey Carswell, founder of Powerful in Pink and co-founder of Queer Metalsmiths; 
Melissa Rodgers, director of business development at M. Schamroth & Sons; 
and Robert J. Goldberg, senior vice president of business development at Citizen Watch America. 

Two current WJA board members are moving into officer roles. 

Mariel Diaz, founder and managing director of Accounting for Jewelers, will serve as treasurer, and Kendra Bridelle, CEO of The Bridelle Collective and luxury brand strategist at Accelarise, will serve as vice president of chapter affairs.

Since its inception in 1983, WJA has fostered a network of professionals through chapters across the U.S., Mexico and most recently, Toronto, Canada.

The WJA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) corporation, engages the trade to contribute and make an impact through the distribution of scholarships and grants, WJA said, ensuring continued support for women in the industry. 
Gabrielle Grazi, WJA president-elect and vice president of retail strategy and partnerships for the Natural Diamond Council, urged the trade to actively engage with the WJA and the foundation.

"Now is the time for our industry to unite in support of women's advancement. Join us in championing diversity, mentorship, and education within the jewelry community by getting involved and becoming a member. Together, we can create lasting change and opportunities for all," Grazi said.

For more information about the association, or to join, visit WJA’s website or email info@womensjewelryassociation.com.