8. Jewellers Of Colour — A Pro-Active Response To Racism In The Jewellery Industry

This week we’re joined by Banita Mistry the founder of @Jewellers_of_Colour an Instagram community connecting Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority Jewellers to share stories, resources and opportunities. This year there has been a real awakening about what is going on in the world and how we can move towards more positive change. I talk with Banita about the jewellery industry specifically and how we can move toward a better, more integrated future.     EPISODE RECAP   For anyone who doesn’t know you or the Jewellers Of Colour Instagram account, can you tell us a little about your background? (2:25) Can you tell us a little about your experience and what it has been like? (8:47) What you’re saying makes me think about the importance of role models - we see women in business, moms doing things. But how many ethnic or Indian or black jewellers are represented? Do you feel like that had an impact on you? (13:12) It’s hard enough to do your own thing, start your own business, put yourself out there. It seems like it’s compounded if there are comments or an underlying structure that makes you feel like you can’t do it. Would you agree? (16:13) That brings us to the idea of a ‘pro-active response’. What can people do that would help to move things forward and make this something that brings about real change? (19:21) There are things even small businesses can do, and it’s nice to know everyone can contribute (23:04) What are the goals of the Jewellers Of Color Instagram account? (26:08) I saw something come up on your account that was a picture of fine jewellery and you asked - if jewellery wasn’t a primary white industry, would this be what jewellery looked like today? (28:37) For me, this has opened my mind to a lot of things and made me think about the industry in a different way. Is there anything else you’d like to cover? (31:30)     RESOURCES Jewellers Of Colour Instagram Jewellers of Colour newsletter Goldsmiths Craft and Design Council