By Lucia Peralta for MiningIR.com
Toronto, ON — March 8, 2024 — As the world commemorates International Women’s Day on March 8th, it is a momentous occasion to celebrate the significant strides women have made in various sectors, including the traditionally male-dominated mining industry. The mining sector, known for its tough environments and challenging conditions, is witnessing a transformative shift with the increasing inclusion of women, highlighting their formidable contributions and leadership.
On this International Women’s Day, it is imperative to recognize the transformative power of inclusion and diversity in driving innovation and growth in the mining industry. Women’s contributions, from the mines to boardrooms, not only enhance operational efficiency but also foster a culture of sustainability and ethical practices.
Ana Gabriela Juarez, the founder of WIM Central America, commented, “empower a woman in mining, and you light up a path for an entire community and for future generations. On this International Women’s Day, let’s commit to illuminating the industry with diversity, equity, and unwavering support for the brilliant women shaping our future. Here’s to the women in mining who are not just breaking rocks but breaking barriers and building bridges.”
Ana Gabriela Juarez, Founder of WIM Central America
Women in Mining Central America was founded three years ago upon Ana Gabriela Juarez’s relocation to Canada. In that time, Ana Gabriela Juarez has observed firsthand the significant national and international impact that Canadian Women in Mining initiatives and organizations have in promoting inclusion and diversity within the mining sector. These efforts range from providing mining education at both the professional and school levels to organizations dedicated to raising mining awareness and conducting public outreach. Each involvement or participation in such initiatives or events filled Ana Gabriela Juarez with enthusiasm, fostering a dream that her family, Guatemalans, and the broader Central American and Caribbean region could someday benefit from similar initiatives.
In 2021, Mariama Adams, a graduate from the University of Mines and Technology in Ghana, embarked on a transformative journey as a Mining Engineer intern at the Wassa Gold Mine through Women in Mining UK’s internship programme. Amidst the pandemic’s uncertainty, her role within the Underground Technical Services teams not only expanded her expertise in various mining operations but also integrated her into the vital work of enhancing mine safety and efficiency, under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
Following her internship with Women in Mining UK at the Wassa Gold Mine in 2021, Mariama Adams founded IHTMOC Consulting. Her company leverages her expertise to deliver innovative mining solutions, focusing on sustainability, digital transformation, and smart mining practices. IHTMOC Consulting is dedicated to revolutionizing the African mining sector, emphasizing futuristic ideas and sustainable strategies for a more promising industry future.
The International Day of Women in Mining (IDWIM), an annual global campaign, plays a crucial role in highlighting the achievements of women in this field and advocating for gender equity. It is a call to action for continuous collaboration towards creating an inclusive environment where women can thrive and contribute significantly to the industry’s advancement. The theme for IDWIM 2024, “I am Mining, and I Belong,” encapsulates the essence of inclusion, empowerment, and the importance of creating a sustainable future for all members of the mining community.
Research and initiatives from organizations like Women in Mining (WIM) have been instrumental in shedding light on the challenges and opportunities for women in the mining industry. For instance, the Women in Mining Mongolia Initiative conducted comprehensive research on the role and contribution of Mongolian women in the country’s extractive industry. The study revealed that Mongolian women have one of the highest participation rates in the national mining industry, which is encouraging for gender diversity across the globe.
Moreover, reports such as “Mining for Talent,” co-authored by Women in Mining (UK) and PwC, underscore the progress and persistent efforts needed to enhance gender diversity in senior management and board roles within the mining sector. Despite the significant improvements noted, the report emphasizes the continued need to address barriers and accelerate the pace of change to achieve a more balanced representation of women in leadership positions.
As we celebrate the achievements and potential of women in mining, it’s clear that the journey toward gender equity is ongoing. The industry’s commitment to fostering an environment where women can excel, and lead is not just a matter of equity but also a strategic imperative for sustainable development and innovation.
The mining industry, with its rich history and critical role in the global economy, is on a transformative journey towards greater inclusivity and diversity. By honoring and empowering women within this sector, we not only pay tribute to their invaluable contributions but also pave the way for a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.
