Vanessa is motivated by the creativity, resiliency, and contributions under supported communities make to fashion, jewelry, creativity, and art. She believes in enhancing access to resources, skills, and visibility for people who have been traditionally excluded as professionals, artisans, and customers in these industries. BQMNY aims to center and uplift marginalized communities and our allies. We donate a portion of proceeds to a variety of organizations working towards safety and celebration for LGBTQ people in the U.S. as well as Vanessa’s homeland of Jamaica.

BQMNY has been featured in NYC Jewelry Week, Metalsmiths for Change, Ori Art Gallery, and has vended at over 40 events including Allied Media Conference, Princeton’s NEQTPOC Conference, and National LGBTQ Task Force’s Creating Change Conference. They are a proud member of the Black in Jewelry Coalition and the Women’s Jewelry Association.