Patricia Inonge Mweene: Pioneering Sustainable 'Jewellery & Gemstone Design' in Africa

Patricia Inonge Mweene, the visionary behind INONGE ZITA, is redefining the landscape of the jewellery and gemstone industry with her sustainable brand based in Copenhagen. Born in Lusaka and raised in Ndola, Zambia-a mining town near the emerald mines of Lufwanyama-Patricia is a passionate advocate for local value addition to raw materials at their source.

Her unique design style is a powerful blend of Zambian heritage and Scandinavian minimalism, creating narrative-driven pieces that foster a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Each jewellery design transforms vibrant cultural stories and organic forms into contemporary art, celebrating both tradition and modernity. As a member of the Lapidary and Jewellery Society Multi-purpose Cooperative Society (LAJESO) cooperative, INONGE ZITA showcases ethically sourced gemstones from Zambia and other African countries, embodying the essence of responsible luxury.

With a focus on promoting inclusive co-creation, Patricia leads INONGE ZITA at the forefront of sustainability. Her strategic advisory for corporations and practical guidance in sustainability projects aim to create economically viable value chains. Through her innovative social initiative framework, "Design Thinking for Extractive Communities," she engages artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) communities across Africa, empowering them to add value to their natural resources. This initiative is pivotal in creating sustainable job opportunities, particularly for youth and women who face disproportionate unemployment challenges.

Although Design Thinking Africa was formally registered in 2023, Patricia's work with this methodology spans nearly 15 years. Her vision of using design as a tool for development was born from her life in Denmark, where she recognized how design can shape societies and create opportunities.

"I want to use design as a development tool across Africa," states Patricia, emphasizing her commitment to harnessing design for the greater good.

INONGE ZITA Atelier | Mukuni Goldsmith & Lapidary Atelier | Design Thinking Africa, is transforming Zambia's jewellery and lapidary industry, setting new standards for ethical practices and community engagement. Patricia Inonge Mweene's work not only celebrates the beauty of African gemstones but also champions the potential of local communities, ensuring that their stories and craftsmanship are honoured and uplifted.

For media inquiries, please contact:

INONGE ZITA Atelier
Email: press@inongezita.com
Phone: +45 50114635

At INONGE ZITA Atelier, a Sustainable fine jewellery brand, we blend Scandinavian design ethos with the rich heritage of Zambia, creating timeless pieces that resonate with a commitment to social responsibility. Our gemstones are ethically sourced, cut, and polished by talented female artisans from the LAJESO Multi-purpose Cooperative Society Limited in Ndola.

This release was published on openPR.