Melizza Jaune Tanpoco | Pearls of wisdom

Melizza Jaune Tanpoco is part of the latest wave of graduates joining our alumni community. While studying, she launched Jaune Pearls, a fine jewellery brand that has since garnered global recognition. Melizza has also established a strong social media presence, sharing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content with over 900,000 followers. In this Q&A, she chats about early success, future goals, and how she balanced running a business with full-time study.

Could you share a bit about the inspiration behind your family establishing Jaune Pearls?

I've loved fashion and art since I was a kid, always messing around with magazine cutouts to make my own designs. Growing up with my family working in the pearl industry, I was deeply inspired to start my own jewellery business. At a QUT Entrepreneurship program, I got the idea to change how people see pearls, moving away from the old-fashioned vibe to something younger and cooler. So that's what we did! We take our expertise in pearls and blend it with fresh designs to create jewellery that really stands out and means something special.

Could you walk us through a typical day in your life as Head of Jaune Pearls, content creator, and (formerly) student?

My day usually starts early with a quick review of emails and updates from the Jaune Pearls team, focusing on production, marketing, and customer service. Then, I switch gears to content creation, where I plan and sometimes shoot videos or photos for social media, aligning with my brand and personal aesthetic. Afternoons are often dedicated to meetings, or classes when I was still studying, balancing discussions with suppliers or collaborators with my academic responsibilities. I try to reserve some time in the evening to brainstorm new ideas or trends that could inspire future jewellery designs or content. Despite my busy schedule, I make sure to carve out a little time for family, friends, and a bit of self-care. To be honest, I don't always know how I manage it all, but believing in myself has always pushed me to give it my best shot.

What have been some standout career moments for you so far?

Working closely with my family and friends has been the most significant part of my journey, shaping every success we’ve shared. This collaboration has led to some incredible moments, like Jaune Pearls being named a finalist at the FGI Rising Star Awards in NYC, and featuring in major events like LA Fashion Week. We’ve also been fortunate to have our efforts recognised in well-known publications like Forbes and Women's Wear Daily (WWD) and by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Sustainability is a core value for Jaune Pearls. Can you share some of the sustainable practices you’ve implemented in your business and why this was important to your family?

At Jaune Pearls, we prioritise an ecosystem approach that emphasises the interconnectedness of our business with stakeholders and the environment. We source our Tahitian pearls from ethical farms in French Polynesia, chosen for their commitment to maintaining unpolluted ocean waters and sustainable farming operations—a crucial practice for the well-being of oysters and the overall marine ecosystem. Our commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of our operations. From ensuring the production of socially responsible designs to transparency in the supply chain and building a family-like community with stakeholders. Thus, each piece of our jewellery is a testament to sustainable luxury. This comprehensive approach ensures that our practices support both ecological health and local communities.

Who or what do you look to for inspiration in your work?

How would you describe the signature style of Jaune Pearls, and what elements do you believe set your designs apart from others in the industry?

What are your future aspirations for Jaune Pearls and your career as a content creator? How do you see your roles evolving in the next few years?

How did you build your audience, and what strategies were most effective in gaining over 900k followers across your social media platforms?

What advice would you give QUT students aspiring to become leaders or influencers in their respective fields?

Lastly – a bit of a fun one! Do you have a favourite piece from the current Jaune Pearls collection, and why does it stand out to you?

I have a deep appreciation for every piece in our Jaune Pearls collection, but I am currently obsessed with our Snow Strand from the Eternity Collection. I wear one myself and find it incredibly versatile—it effortlessly elevates any outfit from day to night. Its timeless elegance and the way it complements both casual and formal attire make it a standout for me.

QUT degree - Bachelor of Business (International Business) / Bachelor of Communication (Digital Media) (2024).

Have a question for Melizza? Connect with her on LinkedIn.