International Women’s Day: The women leading the way in the natural diamond industry

07 Mar 2023

 

Natural Diamond Council – Lily James

Emmy-nominated actress Lily James is the recently appointed Global Ambassador for The Natural Diamond Council. Lily was drawn to the organisations sustainable mission and efforts to support the local diamond mining communities where the diamonds are sourced.

In a recent trip to Botswana to visit the mines Lily was educated on the diamond cutting process and given an insight into the council’s efforts to benefit the community. Following an eye-opening experience Lily has formed a newfound passion to push for positive changein the diamond industry and highlight the sustainable mission,  conservation efforts and their support of the communities where the diamonds are mined. 

“You really feel the power. This is Mother Nature. These stones were created billions of years ago, lifted up to the earth’s surface via volcanoes. They really do feel quite miraculous. To be in Botswana and see the effect the stones have on the community, the value of them has only grown in my eyes.” expressed Lily James. 

Lucara Diamond – Naseem Lahri

Naseem Lahri is the first ever Managing Director of a diamond mine in Botswana and works for Lucara Diamond. Naseem saw the profound impact the natural diamond industry had on her country, and with hard work made her life goal her reality. Pushing through prejudice in what was a male dominated industry, Naseem fought to become the CFO and with sheer determination was appointed MD. 

“Before my promotion I was the only woman in the boardroom. Then our new CEO came on board and about 75% of the board is female.” Naseem’s advice to girls who wish to get to the top of their industries is “Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do the job you want. Be tough, work hard and stay focused. If you’re not progressing, tweak your journey; you may have to take another turn to get to the right place. Never give up and keep your eye on the prize, as long as you do that you will get there!”.

Since Naseem’s appointment, Lucara has improved its maternity leave policies, introduced schemes to support parents working from home and offers equal pay.

Andre Messika – Anna Marie Johnson

Anna Marie Johnson is one of the first ever recruits trained to become a diamond cutter and polisher, operating at the highest international standards for Andre Messika. After being paralyzed at the age of eight, Anna faced so much stigma that she was unable to complete her education, and in her words was left thinking it was the end.

After completing two years of training Anna has not only found one of her biggest passions within the trade but has proven that disability does not equate to inability. Today Andre Messika has 48 diamond cutters, 38% of which are disabled. 

"The moment I got the job my life changed in a way that I was respected in the community. I was able to see myself as more than just a wheelchair. It helped me so much… the depression I was going through, I recovered from it and I actually have a vision now for my future."

Source: Natural Diamond Council