The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) marked a significant expansion into Canada with the announcement of its first Canadian chapter, WJA Toronto, on February 7, 2024.
This development, underscored by the election of its 2024 Board of Directors, including Co-Presidents Alanna Campbell and Shelbey Dodds, represents a noteworthy advance for the Canadian jewellery industry, offering new opportunities for professional growth, networking, and industry support.
A Successful Launch
The genesis of WJA Toronto followed a collaborative event in September 2023, organized with the Canadian Jewelry Association at the Arcadia Studio in Toronto. The event drew an enthusiastic response, with over seventy-five attendees and numerous expressions of interest in leadership roles within the new chapter. This initial success led to the selection of Alanna Campbell and Shelbey Dodds as the inaugural co-presidents for 2024.
WJA President Susan Chandler expressed her excitement about the new chapter, stating, “I’m delighted to welcome our newest WJA Toronto chapter. Our co-presidents, Alanna Campbell and Shelbey Dodds, are building a board to bring the WJA mission to the Canadian jewelry industry. We are grateful for the Canadian Jewellers Association who shared our vision and helped us last fall kick off our latest international initiative. I look forward to all that the Canadian chapter will accomplish in the many years to come.”
Profiles of Leadership
Alanna Campbell, owner of AC Appraisals and Membership Coordinator for the Canadian Jewellers Association, brings a wealth of experience to her role. Starting her journey in the jewellery industry in 2013 and becoming a Graduate Gemologist in 2016, Campbell has been an active member of the WJA since 2021 and has previously served on the Board of the NYM Chapter.
Shelbey Dodds, a Toronto-based jeweller and partner at Triocast, has a rich background in jewellery design and metalsmithing, with a BFA from NSCAD University. Her professional journey includes various artist residencies, awards, and significant contributions to Triocast’s success.
The new board members for WJA Toronto, including Sydney Abrams, Gada Alejlo, Anita Bhandari, Sanaz Doost, Ari Fudim, and Ashley McFarlane, bring diverse talents and experiences to the chapter, promising a dynamic future for WJA in Canada.
Objectives and Expectations for 2024
The co-presidents shared their visions for the chapter’s inaugural year, focusing on establishing a solid foundation for WJA Toronto and expanding its membership. The chapter plans to host a selection of WJA’s signature events, aiming to foster a supportive community for women in the Canadian jewellery and watch industries.
Alanna Campbell reflected on the launch, “We are overwhelmed by the positive response following the WJA Toronto launch event that took place in September 2023. We have the support of a diverse and extremely talented board. We are incredibly fortunate to have the support of these and other volunteers to assist in bringing WJA Toronto to life.”
Shelbey Dodds added, “2024 will be focused on establishing a solid foundation for WJA Toronto. We look forward to hosting a selection of WJA’s signature events as well as growing our membership.”
The establishment of WJA Toronto is a significant development for Canadian jewellers, offering unprecedented access to a global network of industry professionals, educational resources, and leadership development opportunities.
For further details on the Women’s Jewelry Association and its initiatives, please contact info@womensjewelryassociation.com.
