South Africa’s State Diamond Trader (SDT) has emphasised that young professionals are not only the industry's future but are already driving change today.
The country, which is one of the leading diamond producers, celebrates the youth in June.
SDT Marketing and Communication Manager Tsholofelo Tselapedi told Rough & Polished in an exclusive interview that the youth bring innovation through ethical sourcing, digital trading platforms, and AI-driven tools, while also demanding transparency and sustainability.
The youth, she said, are redefining the industry by blending traditional skills with modern values, such as responsible sourcing and inclusive growth, aligning with their Mining Charter's goals.
Tselapedi said the youth’s influence extends to creative marketing, leveraging social media and storytelling to connect global buyers with South African diamonds, emphasizing purpose and craftsmanship.
She said as the industry faces challenges, such as the rise of lab-grown diamonds and fluctuating market prices, these also present opportunities for youth-led innovation.
Young professionals are exploring smarter supply chains, ethical branding, and new beneficiation models to revitalize the sector.
The SDT, she said, supports this through skills development, mentorship, and enterprise initiatives, aiming to create an inclusive industry where youth can thrive.
Below are excerpts from the interview.
What is the significance of Youth Month in South Africa, and how does the State Diamond Trader (SDT) view the role of young people in the diamond industry?
June is a Youth Month in South Africa, a time to honour the energy, resilience, and innovation of our young people. The country's State Diamond Trader (SDT) believes that the youth is not just the future of the diamond industry but is already transforming it today.
What are some of the key values and tools that today's youth are bringing to the diamond industry?
It's a journey of transformation, today's youth is shaping a new era, one that embraces ethical sourcing, digital trading platforms, Artificial Intelligence-driven valuation tools, and a more transparent value chain.
How are young professionals influencing the diamond industry in terms of ethical practices and innovation?
Our young professionals are driving forward initiatives that prioritise responsible sourcing, beneficiation, and inclusive growth in line with the goals of South Africa's Mining Charter.
The young professionals are entering the industry at a time of rapid evolution. What challenges and opportunities does the rise of lab-grown diamonds present for the natural diamond industry?
Globally, the rise of lab-grown diamonds is shifting traditional perceptions of value and sustainability. These stones are gaining traction, especially among eco-conscious consumers with an estimated 17% share in the jewellery market. In response, natural diamond producers are doubling down on traceability and ethical storytelling, making it a ripe opportunity for youth passionate about marketing, sustainability, and innovation.
Source: SDT
How is the youth leveraging technology and creativity to redefine the diamond industry?
Beyond the mine or trading floor, the youth is also leading a creative revolution. Social media, digital platforms, and immersive storytelling have become powerful tools to connect global buyers to South African stones. Personalisation, custom design, and ethical sourcing are not just trends, they are values the youth bring to everyday life.
How did SDT celebrate Youth Month in South Africa?
We highlighted the emerging young leaders in our sector who are blending traditional skills with cutting-edge ideas from junior geologists, diamond evaluators, diamond sorters, diamond markers, diamond planners, diamond cutting and polishing and gemmologists to marketing interns and social impact entrepreneurs. This shows us that the diamond industry isn't just about stones it's about people, stories, and legacy.
What is the vision of the State Diamond Trader (SDT) for the youth in the diamond industry?
The entity remains invested in skills development, enterprise support, and creating platforms where youth can lead whether through internships, mentorship, or new beneficiation ventures. Our vision is clear, to build an industry where young people don't just participate but thrive.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
