By Jamie Hyland
VANCOUVER, CANADA, January 21, 2025 — The Association for Mineral Exploration’s (AME) Roundup 2025 continued on Tuesday January 21 with a series of insightful sessions and networking events that underscored the conference’s theme of “Securing Our Future.” The day’s agenda featured discussions on commodities, financial markets, geoscience advancements, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, and the critical role of base metals in the energy transition.
Commodities and Financial Markets
The morning commenced with the “Commodities and Financial Markets” session, where industry leaders analyzed current market trends and capital-raising strategies. Kendra Johnston, Managing Director at PearTree Securities Inc., discussed “The Impact of Fiscal Policy on Mineral Exploration Finance,” emphasizing how governmental fiscal policies directly influence investment in mineral exploration.
Joe Mazumdar, Editor/Analyst at Exploration Insights, presented on “Intelligently (AI+HI) Evaluating Drill Results to Aid Investment Decisions,” highlighting the integration of artificial intelligence with human intelligence to enhance investment decision-making processes.
Arash Adnani, Founder of PrivatePlacements.com and Blender Media, shared “Capital Insights: Navigating the Trends and Pitfalls in Resource Financings,” providing attendees with strategies to effectively navigate the complexities of resource financing.
Beth Borody, Founder & CEO of Femina Collective, presented “Transforming Mining Through Female Ownership – A Case Study of Inclusive Investment in Mineral Exploration,” discussing the significant impact of female ownership and inclusive investment practices in the mining sector.
Rowena Alavi-Gunn, Senior Analyst at Wood Mackenzie, addressed the question, “Battery Powerplay – Are Battery Metals Still Investable?” providing a comprehensive analysis of the current state and future prospects of battery metals investments.
Emil Kalinowski, Director of Metals Market Research at Wheaton Precious Metals, concluded the session with a “Geopolitical Precious Metals Outlook,” examining how global geopolitical trends are influencing the supply, demand, and pricing of precious metals.
Memorandum of Understanding: Tłı̨chǫ Government and Fortescue Partnership
A significant milestone in Indigenous and industry collaboration was marked at AME Roundup 2025 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Tłı̨chǫ Government (TG) of the Northwest Territories and Fortescue, a global technology, energy, and metals group. The agreement lays the groundwork for future mining opportunities within Tłı̨chǫ lands, fostering a framework for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building. The MOU focuses on understanding the mineral potential of the region, with an initial emphasis on assessing lithium-caesium-tantalum (LCT) pegmatites.
“Today’s signing represents a major step toward informed and sustainable resource development in Tłı̨chǫ lands,” said Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty. “Through effective partnerships, we can protect our culture and traditions while exploring opportunities for a brighter future.” Fortescue’s Warren Fish echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the company’s commitment to responsible resource development and Indigenous collaboration: “This agreement is a testament to the innovative and collaborative spirit of the Tłı̨chǫ people, setting a new standard for resource development that prioritizes people, culture, and the environment.” The partnership will support Indigenous training, employment, and independent geological research, reinforcing the Tłı̨chǫ Government’s long-term vision for sustainable economic growth.
Advances in Geoscience
Simultaneously, the “Advances in Geoscience” session showcased cutting-edge research and regional geological studies. Geoscientists presented new mineralization concepts, providing attendees with fresh perspectives on exploration methodologies.
Finance Lunch with Douglas Silver
A highlight of the day was the Finance Lunch, featuring keynote speaker Douglas Silver, CEO of Balfour Holdings LLC. With a distinguished 45-year career encompassing roles from grassroots exploration to private equity, Silver shared his extensive knowledge on resource financing. He emphasized the importance of adapting to market fluctuations and the need for innovative financing solutions in the mining industry.
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Session
In the afternoon, the ESG session delved into best practices essential for responsible mineral exploration and mining. Lynda Smithard, COO of McCue Engineering Contractors, discussed “The Other Water Cycle,” highlighting sustainable water management in mining operations. Nancy Norris, Senior Director of ESG & Digital Trust at the B.C. Ministry of Energy, Mines & Low Carbon Innovation, introduced the United Nations Transparency Protocol, emphasizing the significance of traceability in mining supply chains. Mila Gajic, VP of Human Resources at Artemis Gold Inc., shared insights on the Blackwater Mine Training & Employment Approach, focusing on community engagement and workforce development.
Critical and Base Metals Session
Concurrently, the “Critical and Base Metals” session addressed the exploration and development of minerals vital to the energy transition. Erin Carswell, Vice President of Exploration at Foran Mining, presented on the Tesla and Bridge Zone discoveries in Northern Saskatchewan, showcasing the region’s copper-zinc potential. Jean-Marc Lulin, President & CEO of Azimut Exploration Inc., discussed the use of predictive modeling in nickel discovery in Quebec, underscoring technological advancements in mineral exploration.
This year at AME Roundup 2025, Canadian provinces and territories are actively participating through exhibit booths and high-level discussions on critical minerals. The Exhibit Hall features representations from provinces such as Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Mantoba, Alberta, British Columbia, and Northwest Territories, showcasing their mineral exploration opportunities and initiatives. Notably, Premier David Eby of British Columbia is among the distinguished speakers, highlighting the province’s commitment to advancing its critical minerals strategy. Additionally, John Rustad, Leader of the Conservative Party of B.C., is contributing to discussions, emphasizing the importance of provincial leadership in the sector. This collective provincial engagement underscores Canada’s dedication to fostering a collaborative approach in the development and management of critical mineral resources.
Student-Industry Networking Event
The evening featured the Student-Industry Networking Event, fostering connections between students and industry professionals. This platform provided emerging talent with opportunities to engage with seasoned experts, discuss career prospects, and gain insights into the industry’s future.
BC Night
Concluding the day’s events, BC Night offered attendees a chance to unwind and celebrate. With music and dancing, participants enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere to network and reflect on the day’s discussions.
Day 2 of AME Roundup 2025 exemplified the conference’s commitment to fostering knowledge exchange, promoting sustainable practices, and building connections within the mineral exploration and mining community.
