Celebrating Young Talent: De Beers Group's Shining Light Awards
Shining Light Awards Showcase Emerging Designers
De Beers Group has unveiled the winners of its prestigious Shining Light Awards, a celebration dedicated to fostering the talent of young jewellery designers from regions where the company recovers diamonds. This initiative emphasizes creativity and innovation, empowering aspiring designers from diverse backgrounds.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Development
Initially launched in 1995, the Shining Light Awards form a critical part of the De Beers Group Designers Initiative. This program focuses on youth mentorship and skills development aimed at cultivating advanced jewellery design and manufacturing capabilities in diamonds' host countries. Open to designers aged 18 to 35, the competition encourages participants who are in their final year of study, recent graduates, or who possess relevant industry experience.
Theme of Luxury and Diversity
The 2024 theme, "Luxury Redefined," inspired entrants to develop unique and culturally inclusive jewellery collections. Each submission featured an array of beautifully crafted pieces including rings, necklaces, earrings, bangles, and bracelets. A remarkable total of 104 entries were received, showcasing the rich creativity found in each region.
Impact of the Awards on Designers
Moses Madondo, CEO of De Beers Group Managed Operations, expressed pride in the program’s capacity to create accessible opportunities within the diamond sector. He acknowledged the transformative impact of the Shining Light Awards on the careers of young designers, highlighting the initiative’s role in generating entrepreneurship, skills transfer, and creativity within the industry.
The Role of an International Jury
An esteemed international panel of judges, led by CEO of De Beers Jewellers, Céline Assimon, diligently evaluated the entries. The judges reflected on how this year’s theme elicited inventive interpretations that embraced sustainability, cultural heritage, and personal experiences of luxury.
Recognizing the 2024 Award Winners
This year’s winners emerged from an outstanding pool of talent and are set to benefit significantly from structured skills development programs and business support aimed at fostering their careers. The awards are designed not just to honor excellence but to equip recipients with vital resources for their future endeavors in the jewellery industry.
First Place Winners
- Legakwana Leo Makgekgenene (Botswana)
- Alisha Ansems (Canada)
- Juliana Fransisko (Namibia)
- Otlotleng Moshupa (South Africa)
Second Place Winners
- Tsholo Cater Mogobye (Botswana)
- Elinor Nelson-Hachey (Canada)
- Padja Kaitungwa (Namibia)
- Eve Julia Schneeberger (South Africa)
Third Place Winners
- Tshegofatso Sheba Kenalemang (Botswana)
- Samantha Yeung (Canada)
- Luka Ndivayele (Namibia)
- Lisa Henn (South Africa)
Enhancing Careers in Jewellery Design
The Shining Light Awards not only spotlight exceptional talent but also prioritize the development of sustainable careers within the jewellery sector. By providing essential tools and resources, De Beers Group is dedicated to making a lasting impact on the communities involved with the awards, ensuring that the winners can thrive in their careers and contribute positively to their local economies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Shining Light Awards?
The Shining Light Awards is a jewellery design competition by De Beers Group aimed at promoting young designers from diamond-producing countries.
Who can participate in the Shining Light Awards?
The competition is open to designers aged 18 to 35 who are currently studying jewellery design, recent graduates, or have relevant experience in the field.
What is the significance of the theme "Luxury Redefined"?
This year's theme encourages participants to explore new definitions of luxury through authentic, diverse, and sustainable designs reflecting personal experiences.
What resources do winners receive?
Winners gain access to business support, educational programs, and mentorship opportunities to further their careers in the jewellery industry.
How does De Beers Group contribute to local communities?
De Beers Group invests in local talent through initiatives like the Shining Light Awards, fostering economic growth and encouraging skills development in the diamond sector.
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