De Beers has announced Botswana-born Olympic gold medalist Letsile Tebogo as its new global ambassador, further strengthening the company’s ties to the nation where it has played a pivotal role in economic development.
Tebogo made history at the 2024 Olympics by clinching gold in the 200-meter race and was later named World Athletics Male Athlete of the Year.
This partnership between De Beers and Tebogo underscores Botswana’s remarkable transformation into a leading diamond-producing country, a journey that has fueled progress in education, sports, and economic development.
The longstanding collaboration between the Botswana government and De Beers has enabled the country to harness its diamond resources to improve infrastructure, education, and opportunities for its people.
Tebogo, a product of these efforts, embodies the potential of Botswana’s youth when given the resources to succeed.
“Like the diamonds that shaped his nation’s future, Letsile’s rise to excellence highlights Botswana’s latent potential that, when nurtured, creates something brilliant,” De Beers stated.
“This partnership weaves together his sporting achievements with Botswana’s development through diamonds, crafting a powerful narrative of possibility, passion, and progress.”
Tebogo expressed gratitude for the role Botswana’s diamond wealth has played in his success.
“The resources that built our schools and sports facilities have paved the way for young athletes like me,” Tebogo said. “I’m humbled that an organization like De Beers, which has been integral to my country’s development, sees it fit to play a role in my future.
I’m excited to work with De Beers to highlight the power of natural diamonds for our country and its people.”
De Beers emphasized that this collaboration is not just about sports but also about showcasing how natural diamonds drive positive change in communities.
The company drew parallels between Tebogo’s journey to Olympic glory and the transformation of natural diamonds, both shaped by pressure and time.
A centerpiece of this partnership will be a short film series titled Talent Unearthed, where Tebogo will serve as the lead ambassador.
The series will celebrate athletic talents deeply connected to Botswana and highlight how natural diamonds have uplifted communities.
“The series aims to inspire the next generation of talent with Tebogo’s story of perseverance and dedication,” said De Beers Brands CEO Sandrine Conseiller.
As part of the partnership, Tebogo and his team will identify opportunities to invest in sports development within Botswana.
A range of projects stemming from this collaboration will be launched throughout the year, further solidifying De Beers’ commitment to empowering Botswana’s youth and fostering the next generation of champions.
