Malawi’s renowned gemologist, Yamikani Jimusole, has secured a prestigious scholarship to study Jewelry Design at the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) London campus.
The merit-based scholarship, valued at £4,698, will cover part of the tuition for the 8-week Jewelry Design Certificate Programme.
Jimusole, who graduated as a gemologist from GIA’s Thailand campus in 2017, aims to combine his gemological expertise with jewelry design skills to unlock new opportunities for Malawi’s gemstone industry.
“I’m thrilled to have been awarded this scholarship, it’s a dream come true to study jewelry design at GIA’s London campus and bring back valuable skills to Malawi,” he said.
As the CEO of Yamikani Gemstone Lab & Exports Pvt Ltd (YAGLE), Jimusole is spearheading efforts to transform Malawi’s gemstone sector.
His vision includes establishing a state-of-the-art gemological laboratory, a Gemological and Entrepreneurship Institute, and a gemstone and jewelry museum.
Malawi has over 25 types of gemstones, with the potential to generate billions of dollars annually.
However, lack of proper grading, certification and appraisal systems, limits the country’s ability to realise this potential.
Jimusole’s expertise in gemology and jewelry design will enable him to create high-value jewelry that meets international standards.
“I encourage other Malawians to pursue scholarships or self-funded studies in gemology and jewelry design, there are endless opportunities available in the sector, and I’m excited to be a part of it,” he added.
