Independent charity Gems Keep Giving, which supports artisanal gemstone mining and cutting communities worldwide, completed a restructuring in September 2024 in which a new leader is taking the helm.

The International Colored Gemstone (ICA), which founded Gems Keep Giving, said industry expert Hayley Henning now sits as chair of the not-for-profit organisation.

The restructuring progamme likewise widened the organisation’s reach, enabling it to seek contributions from industry stakeholders, corporate sponsors, foundations and other gemstone enthusiasts, revealed Henning. 

Henning is credited with establishing the Pink Polar Bear Foundation, a corporate social responsibility initiative of Greenland Ruby, where Henning previously worked as chief commercial officer.

Board members of Gems Keep Giving include Damien Cody and Clement Sabbagh, current and former presidents of ICA, respectively; as well as industry leaders Ruth Benjamin-Thomas, Brian Cook, Rocco Gay, Cecilia Gardner, Robert Weldon and Henry Ho.

Most artisanal miners work in areas with highly challenging socioeconomic, political, and infrastructural circumstances. Gems Keep Giving encourages industry stakeholders to help sustain these communities, offering a platform to contribute towards their well-being while adhering to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals. All donations are fully tax-deductible, as allowed by law, Henning added.