Celebrating Entrepreneurship: Lesotho's Rising Stars Announced as Finalists for the Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant
Get ready to witness an inspiring showcase of entrepreneurial talent as two extraordinary individuals from Lesotho have made it to the finals of the esteemed Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant! This monumental announcement, made by United People Global, spotlights the innovative prowess of Mabatho Hlaoli and Mafube Ranthimo, who represent the entrepreneurial spirit flourishing in African diamond-producing regions. With the winners set to be revealed on August 7, 2025, excitement is building around these remarkable finalists.
The Diamonds Do Good® Entrepreneurship Grant is not just about providing cash prizes; it’s about fostering sustainable change and supporting local entrepreneurs. With financial backing ranging from ,000 to ,000, the grant empowers winners to scale their businesses and make a positive impact in their communities. As Nancy Orem Lyman, Executive Director of Diamonds Do Good, emphasizes, the objective is to champion those closest to the diamond source, investing in local leadership and sustainable development.
Mabatho Hlaoli is a shining example of this mission. As the founder and CEO of Ecofrica Innovations, a biotech startup that produces nutrient-rich fertilizer using vermicomposting technology, she is dedicated to empowering smallholder farmers in her rural community. With her innovative approach, she aims to combat issues like climate change and soil health, ensuring food security for her people. Meanwhile, Mafube Ranthimo, a Bcom Financial Management holder and Senior Administrator at Transnet freight rail, is making strides toward establishing a chicken farm called Devine Farming in North Western Lesotho. His enterprise not only promises to create job opportunities but also to facilitate exports to South Africa, combining local agriculture with international trade.
The 2025 finalists represent a diverse array of sectors, including agriculture, education, and health care, showcasing the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape across nations such as Botswana, India, Namibia, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania. It’s clear that the competition is fierce, with each contender displaying extraordinary vision and resilience.
Mark your calendars for the announcement event on August 7, 2025, at 4 PM CEST (10 AM EDT). This milestone moment will be free for attendees, and you can witness it live by registering here.
The Diamonds Do Good® initiative, launched in 2006 and inspired by the teachings of Nelson Mandela, aims to celebrate the life-enhancing impact of diamonds on communities in Southern Africa, ensuring their stories come to light. With foundational programs like UPG Biashara, aspiring entrepreneurs receive mentorship and training that elevate their potential and transform ideas into viable businesses.
In this season of empowerment, let’s stay connected with the finalists’ journey on social media using the hashtags: #DiamondsDoGoodGrant #UPGBiashara. Together, we can uplift voices from across the African continent and celebrate entrepreneurial spirit!
Tags: #WorldNews #BusinessNews #Lifestyle #Tourism
