Rio Tinto’s Argyle Pink Diamonds brand is partnering with the West Australian Ballet to grant scholarships to gifted dancers.
The Rio Tinto brand will launch the Rare Gem collaboration together with the Australian ballet company to support students in its Young Artists program, the organizations said on Monday. A 12-month scholarship will enable the students to gain stage experience and mentorship, and prepare them for a professional ballet career.
“Beauty and perfection drive both our Argyle Pink Diamonds business and West Australian Ballet,” said Sinead Kaufman, Rio Tinto’s chief executive of minerals. “Rare pink diamonds, forged under extreme conditions from the depths of the earth, mirror the discipline and dedication that results in the breathtaking beauty of ballet.”
Samantha Green, a young ballet artist who graduated with honors in dance from Western Australian Academy of Performance and Art, will be Argyle Pink Diamonds’ Rare Gem for 2025. Throughout the year, she will perform in every mainstage season as well as on regional tours and at special events.
“The process of finding and developing young, talented dancers is akin to the process of uncovering and transforming rare diamonds from deep within the earth,” said Lauren Major, executive director of West Australian Ballet. “Our Young Artists program is an opportunity for precious few young dancers…to be supported through the Rare Gem affiliation.”
Images: Ballerina Samantha Green (l) and Argyle Pink Diamonds (r). (Rio Tinto)
