Nicky Oppenheimer, born on June 8, 1945, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a prominent businessman and philanthropist, renowned for his significant contributions to the diamond industry and his extensive philanthropic endeavors. Oppenheimer is married to Orcillia “Strilli” Lasch, and together they have one son, Jonathan Oppenheimer, who has been actively involved in the family’s business and philanthropic activities.
Early Life and Education.
Oppenheimer hails from a lineage deeply entrenched in the diamond sector. His grandfather, Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, founded the Anglo American Corporation in 1917 and later took control of De Beers, transforming it into the world’s leading diamond company. Nicky’s father, Harry Oppenheimer, continued this legacy, further solidifying the family’s influence in the industry. Nicky received his education at Harrow School in the UK and later attended Christ Church, Oxford, where he earned a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics.
Career in the Diamond Industry
Following his education, Oppenheimer joined the family business, taking on various roles within De Beers and its subsidiaries. He served as the chairman of De Beers and the Diamond Trading Company and was the deputy chairman of Anglo American. In 2012, he sold his family’s 40% stake in De Beers to Anglo American for $5.1 billion, marking the end of the family’s 85-year involvement in the diamond industry.
Philanthropic Initiatives
Beyond his business ventures, Oppenheimer has been actively involved in philanthropy, focusing on education, conservation, and economic development in Africa. He established the Brenthurst Foundation in 2004, aiming to contribute to the advancement of African economies by providing policy advice and promoting sustainable development. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Oppenheimer, along with his son Jonathan, established the South African Future Trust in March 2020. This initiative provided financial relief to employees of small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) affected by the pandemic, ensuring the preservation of jobs and supporting economic stability during a challenging period.
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, another significant philanthropic endeavor, supports various educational and charitable causes across South Africa, reflecting Oppenheimer’s commitment to social development and empowerment.
Conservation Efforts
A passionate conservationist, Oppenheimer has dedicated substantial resources to environmental preservation. Through initiatives like the Diamond Route, a network of conservation sites across South Africa, he has promoted biodiversity research, environmental education, and sustainable tourism, aiming to protect the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
Nicky Oppenheimer’s journey from leading one of the world’s largest diamond companies to dedicating his resources towards philanthropic and conservation efforts showcases a legacy of business acumen intertwined with a profound commitment to societal and environmental betterment.
