On the eve of the opening of JCK Las Vegas earlier this month, Diamonds Do Good (DDG) recognised leaders who embody the tenet that ‘Doing Good is Good Business’ in front of an audience of industry leaders, designers, retailers, and dignitaries from Botswana, including the Honourable Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy,. Lefoko Moagi.
The money generated will go towards educational and entrepreneurial grants for young people living in natural diamond communities around the world.
Among those who received recognition were:
Valérie Messika, recipient of the DDG NextGen Award for bringing innovation to diamond jewellery design while inspiring the next generation to take action and make a difference in the world;
Lorraine West, who received DDG‘s Inspiration Award for her talent, perseverance, and achievements in the diamond and jewellery industry; Rosy Blue, who received DDG‘s Visionary Award for their pioneering leadership as early adopters to incorporate social, environmental, economic, and ethical factors into their corporate strategic decision-making process.
De Beers, who received the DDG‘s GOOD Award for their Building Forever dedication to making a long-term positive difference for the people and places where natural diamonds are found.
“I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of De Beers and the communities, countries, and customers that we are proud to call our partners,” said Al Cook, CEO of De Beers.
“The recipients of these awards reflect the importance of engaging communities around the world,” says Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr., DDG Co-Founder and Civil Rights Leader.
Anna Martin, President of DDG, agrees: “Now, more than ever, we need to reaffirm and share this commitment with consumers everywhere.”