Diamonds Do Good (DDG) and the Signet Love Inspires Foundation are highlighting the power of industry philanthropy to create meaningful opportunities for young people through Finding the Leader Within, a two-year partnership between DDG and Stepping Stones International (SSI), funded by the Signet Love Inspires Foundation.
As part of the partnership, a creative masterclass initiated by Denim Richards, founder of Opulent Entertainment, known to many as Colby from the television series Yellowstone, provided young people with an opportunity to explore storytelling and creative expression. Shuga Global, formerly MTV Staying Alive, assisted with the research and storytelling in order to use the films for shifting behaviors in communities.
The partnership culminated in the Youth Premiere Screening: Three Stories. Lives Changed. on October 8 at Maitisong Theatre in Gaborone. The event showcased three short films created by young Batswana using storytelling to raise awareness of issues affecting young people and celebrate their voices and creative potential. The premiere brought together youth participants, community organizations and industry representatives, including Marcus ter Haar, incoming Chair of DDG, who attended on the organization’s behalf.
“Finding the Leader Within is a powerful example of how industry philanthropy can support programs that make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” said ter Haar. “Through this new initiative, Diamonds Do Good is looking to identify meaningful programs in natural diamond-producing countries and connect them with diamond-centric organizations and foundations that share a commitment to creating lasting impact in these communities.”
The event also highlighted the commitment of Signet Jewelers and its Signet Love Inspires Foundation to supporting initiatives that strengthen communities and expand opportunities. By funding the two-year partnership, the Foundation helped bring together DDG, Stepping Stones International and creative partners to support youth development through an innovative combination of leadership development and storytelling.
“At Signet, our Purpose—Inspiring Love—and our commitment to Love for All People reflect our belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their potential and envision a brighter future. We are proud to support Finding the Leader Within in Botswana, empowering young people to develop their leadership skills, express themselves through storytelling, and share their voices in ways that can inspire positive change in their communities,” said Colleen Rooney, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer and Board Member of the Signet Love Inspires Foundation.
The evening featured a discussion with the young filmmakers and actors, remarks from Shane Fox, Factory Manager of Signet Direct Diamond Sourcing, and a keynote address by the Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Botswana’s Minister of Minerals and Energy.
The screening marks an important example of the work DDG hopes to advance through its new outreach initiative: identifying credible, locally driven programs in diamond-producing countries and connecting them with philanthropic partners seeking to make a meaningful difference through education, entrepreneurship, youth development and workforce opportunities.