DTC Botswana Shining Light Diamond Jewellery design competition collection launched
07-06-2011

Diamond Trading Company Botswana launched its 2nd collection of diamond jewellery on 7th June 2011, at the Gaborone International Convention Centre. The 2010/2012 SLA competition is the 9th competition to be run in South Africa and the 2nd competition to be run in Botswana and Namibia. The Shining Light Diamond Jewellery Design Awards were launched in Botswana in 2008. 

The theme of the 2010 competition, Enduring Bonds is based on the symbiotic relationship between diamonds and stories, and symbolizes the unique and emotional bond that exists between two people whether it is one of love, loyalty or friendship.

One hundred and six (106) entries were received in the 2010 competition from Botswana professional designers; and student and apprentice jewellery designers from across Botswana. With international interest and awareness in this prestigious competition on the increase, the 2010 Judging Panel comprised of international judges including supermodel Alek Wek (Sudan), international jewellery designer, Karen Lee (China), and Art Consultant Yoshiko Ikoma (Japan). Local judges comprised of Jacob Thamage (Coordinator of the Diamond Hub); Mildred Boduwe (founding Principal of the Oodi College of Applied Arts and Technology); Philisani Amos (Lecturer, Limkokwing University of Creative Technology); Sheila Khama (former Chief Executive of De Beers Holdings Botswana); and Brian McDonald (DTC Botswana Managing Director). The 2010 SLA collection comprises of 30 pieces of diamond jewellery (10 pieces per country), collectively representing the indigenous diamond design talent of South Africa, Namibia and Botswana making this particular collection the largest collection of diamond jewellery ever designed and created for Diamond Trading Company.

DTC Botswana’s Managing Director, Mr. Brian McDonald, said, “the importance of nurturing Botswana’s design talent cannot be over-emphasised, and we are fortunate to have a close and supportive relationship with stakeholders who share our values and priorities. We have Sightholders who like us, see virtue in creating opportunities for skills development and job creation. We have a group of highly driven, young Batswana designers who do not only want to develop their creative talent, but to also claim space in the international stage and fly their national flag with pride’’.

Overall winner, designer David Moatisi created his neckpiece using 18ct white gold set with 2,848 diamonds weighing 73.17cts – sponsored by Eurostar Botswana.

For more information, please contact:

Kago Mmopi
Communications & Corporate Affairs Manager
Tel: 72303132 / 3649270
Email: kmmopi@dtcb.co.bw