DTC Botswana recently held a function to hand-over the Shining Light Awards winner’s prize made up of jewellery design tools valued at P20, 000.
The tools were received by the Overall winner of the DTC Botswana Shining Light Awards competition, Katja Nilsson.
Dignitaries included the Assistant Minister of Education and Skills Development, Kavis Kario; Diamond Hub Coordinator, Dr Akolang Tombale; Director, Department of Vocational Education & Training and the Principal of Oodi College of Applied Science and Technology.
Interpreting her winning piece, Katja Nilsson said she epitomised the 2008/09 theme of “Fingerprints of Your Journey” through an 18-carat, white and red gold neckpiece, set with 674 round, brilliant cut diamonds.
The interconnected white and red gold strands of the neckpiece brought to mind the outstretched upside-down roots of baobab trees which are abundant in areas of the Makgadikgadi Pans, which she says was her inspiration.
When giving a background of the competition, Toby Frears, Head of Sales and Marketing, DTC Botswana, highlighted that the competition is in line with DTC Botswana’s Vision of enhancing the emotional value, desirability and integrity of diamonds, emphasising that the competition encouraged designers to create work that is timeless, elegant, mythical and contemporary.
At the event, an educational grant of P20, 000 was handed over to the Ministry of Education and Skills Development on behalf of Oodi College of Applied Arts and Technology. The grant will assist in procuring specialized tools and equipment which shall ensure graduates are well versed in cutting-edge technology.
Kavis Kario welcomed this gesture as one that will complement the Government’s long-term vision of creating a vibrant, sustainable and profitable downstream industry that will deliver additional value for the country.
