With an aim to foster networking among alumni, GIA India hosted a meet-and-greet event at its booth in the recently concluded India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) 2018. More than 40 GIA alumni from all over India gathered for the opportunity to connect with friends and network for business. Not only did the Mumbai and New Delhi GIA Alumni Association chapters participate, alumni from Jaipur, Surat and Kolkata also joined in and suggested meetings be held at regular intervals. Some utilised this opportunity to share ideas on how GIA India can work closely with the alumni association chapters.
Speaking at the occasion, Ms. Nirupa Bhatt, Managing Director of GIA India and Middle East, said, “I’m excited that this event has received participation in great numbers from all parts of India. Many alumni expressed the value of GIA credentials and how they add recognition and credibility to their careers and businesses. The success of the event is a testimony to how close-knit the GIA alumni network is. We plan to conduct gemmological and professional development seminars to further engage alumni across India.”
Vikram Bhat (GIA AJP, Graduate Diamonds), Managing Director of Kiara Jewellery and Dalloz India (both part of France-based Dalloz Group) and GIA Alumni Mumbai Chapter President, said, “It felt great to see so many alumni association members. The event was a good networking session and gave us an opportunity to make new contacts. It was also great to hear Nirupa Ma’am share the alumni engagement plans for the near future. I look forward to staying connected.”
A second generation businessman, Yash Dhamani (GIA Graduate Gemologist), Director of National Facets (Jaipur), added, “GIA alumni events are always a great opportunity to connect with fellow alumni and instructors. Being a gemstone manufacturer, it was an opportunity for me to meet with the Mumbai alumni, many of whom were jewellery designers, jewellery manufacturers, retailers and traders. This event served as a platform for GIA alumni to increase their exposure to like-minded professionals, network and develop stronger bonds which is always rewarding. With hundreds of members, GIA alumni events provide a global business network that remains unmatched.”