The PlatAfrica 2016 jewellery design and manufacture competition is once again at the forefront of unearthing the country’s top talent.
For the past 17 years, our Platinum business in association with Platinum Guild International (PGI) India and Metal Concentrators, has sponsored the coveted competition to promote innovation and technical competence in the design and manufacture of platinum jewellery.
PlatAfrica continues to play an important role in providing our country’s brightest students and designers the platform to develop their skills. This is done through technical design and creative thinking, giving entrants the chance to accomplish global competitiveness.
This year, entrants will be challenged with Nuevo Traditions – a modern interpretation of ancient philosophies, rituals and stories using new technology. As in 2015, we have looked beyond South Africa’s borders to the worlds’ second-largest platinum jewellery market for inspiration – India, and the chance to be considered for participation in PGI India’s design sourcing process.
An important attribute will be for apprentices and students to create and produce jewellery which remains desirable in the marketplace, while still being practical. In achieving this, designers must be able to work with diverse materials such as precious metals and gemstones in order to make their designs come alive.
Following the success of last year’s PlatAfrica competition, which attracted a record 147 participants, a 119 of which were students and apprentices, 2016 promises to be the biggest event yet. In unearthing this talent, the competition also shapes designers in teaching them organisational and time management skills, by being exposed to the commercial side of jewellery design, thus empowering future generations.
PlatAfrica continues to be an integral vehicle for Anglo American Platinum in ensuring that the industry continues to be injected with fresh new designers, who will in turn drive the success of businesses in the sector.
Learn more about PlatAfrica.