Nicky was born on 8 June 1945 to Bridget and Harry Oppenheimer. He is the grandson of Ernest Oppenheimer, the founder of Anglo American. Nicky’s father was of German Jewish descent. He attended Harrow School and Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, earning an Oxford MA. In 1968, Nicky married Orcillia “Strilli” Lasch, the daughter of Helli Lasch. They have a son together named Jonathan Oppenheimer. Nicholas F. Oppenheimer known is South African businessman and philanthropist. He was the former chairman of De Beers Diamond Mining Company.

Awards And Recognitions

1. Ranked as the richest person in South Africa on Forbes Rich list, 2019

2. Presidential Order of Honor from the former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae, 2004

3. Honorary doctorate, Technikon Witwatersrand, 2003

4. Honorary Fellowship, London Business School, 2009

Nicky Oppenheumer Quotes

I’m a great believer that if you know how to operate in Africa, there are unbelievable opportunities.

Diamonds are intrinsically worthless, except for the deep psychological need they fill.

Because I am an African, I reserve the right to say that Africa does not exist simply to make people in this country (the UK), or anywhere else in the world, feel good about themselves.

It is only through developing and maximizing all its natural resources that a sustainable future for Africa and its people can be secured.

Diamond are a key component in the campaign to make poverty history.

We all need to become more customer-focused and recognize the power of marketing to sell more diamonds.

I am one of the affluent rich living the good life. But, I like to think that I am doing my bit to resolve the problems of Africa and I’m certainly committed to Africa in the long run.