Lucara MD is definitely a diamond
Naseem Lahri’s resilient leadership and unmistakable style
Naseem Lahri, the trailblazing Managing Director of Lucara Botswana, is a true diamond in the rough, leading a mining giant with polished precision. Her instrumental role in growing Botswana’s economic sectors and her exceptional leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed. In an industry often dominated by men, Lahri stands out not only for her professional acumen but also for her distinctive personal style.
Lahri believes that today’s mining industry demands adaptive and resilient leadership. This philosophy was put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she prioritized the well-being of her employees above all else. Under her guidance, Lucara maintained full production capacity without salary cuts or operational reductions.
“At Lucara, my leadership prioritized employee well-being, maintaining full production capacity without salary cuts or operational reductions,” Lahri stated. “We implemented rigorous safety measures, including isolation cabins and on-site testing, achieving minimal infections while operating at 100% capacity. Supported by a dedicated executive team, we ensured operational success and financial security for all staff, setting a benchmark for resilience and preparedness.”
She emphasizes that to remain competitive, leaders must be dynamic, forward-thinking, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Her bold approach and focus on innovation have positioned her and her team as industry trailblazers, ensuring sustained growth in an ever-evolving landscape.
Lahri’s influence extends far beyond the boardroom. She is known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly her generous support of the Miss Botswana organization. She recently donated half a million Pula to the organization, with a portion of the funds going to former Miss Botswana Anicia Gaothusi’s “Lights” project.
Her commitment to empowering women and giving back to the community is deeply ingrained in her personal values.
Lahri’s remarkable career has earned her numerous accolades, including a spot on the prestigious Botswana Top 100 CEOs in 2025 list. A highlight of her career is being the first and youngest Motswana woman to run a diamond mine, a feat that has garnered global recognition from publications such as the New Yorker, Mining Weekly, and Vogue.
Under her leadership, Lucara Botswana pioneered several groundbreaking initiatives. “I led Lucara Botswana in extending maternity leave to six months with full pay, pioneered multi-platform diamond sales, and ensured uninterrupted mine operations during the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. “I was also the only miner in Botswana selling on three different sales platforms.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Lahri is also a notable figure in the fashion world. Her sophisticated and stylish look is a masterclass in blending colors and textures, creating an impressive and classy aesthetic. Frequently seen in high-end designer wear from both local and international brands, her expensive and authentic bags are a signature part of her stunning appearance, making her a true style icon.
