The American Gem Society (AGS) has revealed an exciting roster of keynote speakers for its Conclave 2026, aiming to deliver a comprehensive program focused on enhancing leadership, elevating client experiences, and fostering innovative thinking within the jewelry sector. Scheduled from September 14–17, 2026, at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, the event promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry professionals seeking growth and fresh perspectives. The selected speakers will delve into diverse themes, from personal development and exceptional service to creative inspiration and the art of illusion, reflecting a dynamic approach to addressing the evolving demands of the trade.

The Conclave will kick off with Ben Nemtin, co-founder of The Buried Life movement and a New York Times bestselling author. On September 15, Nemtin will engage attendees with discussions on finding purpose, building resilience, and driving personal growth, drawing from his extensive experience speaking to Fortune 100 companies worldwide. His insights are expected to provide a compelling start to the event, motivating participants to think beyond conventional boundaries.

The following day, attendees will hear from Will Guidara, another New York Times bestselling author, celebrated for his work “Unreasonable Hospitality.” As the former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, a restaurant that garnered top accolades including four New York Times stars and three Michelin stars, Guidara will share his expertise on leadership, unparalleled service standards, and cultivating a thriving organizational culture. His session on September 16 is anticipated to offer practical strategies for enhancing customer relations and operational excellence.

On September 17, the focus shifts to creativity with Deanna Marsigliese, an acclaimed art director and character designer at Pixar Animation Studios. With a career spanning back to 2012, Marsigliese has contributed to beloved films such as “Inside Out,” “Soul,” and “Toy Story 4,” and recently designed characters for “Inside Out 2.” Her presentation will inspire attendees with lessons from the world of animation, highlighting the power of artistic innovation and imaginative design.

The Conclave's keynote series will culminate with David Kwong, a distinguished magician, New York Times crossword puzzle creator, and TED Talk speaker, at the Titleholder Luncheon. Kwong is known for his unique ability to merge illusion with psychology, offering captivating explorations into perception, influence, and creative problem-solving. His performance and insights are expected to leave a lasting impression, encouraging a fresh approach to challenges within the jewelry industry.

Denise Richards, chair of the Conclave Subcommittee, emphasized the magical essence of gathering in Orlando, a city renowned for imagination. She highlighted that the program is meticulously crafted to equip attendees with actionable insights to strengthen leadership, refine client engagement, and ignite innovative thinking within their teams. The American Gem Society's International Conclave remains a premier educational and networking platform, offering invaluable opportunities for members to grow and connect. Future announcements will include details on additional speakers and educational tracks, further enriching the event’s offerings. Jewelers Mutual Group and GIA are proud sponsors of this significant industry gathering.