Not-for-profit women in mining empowerment organisation International Women in Mining (IWiM) has launched International Day of Women in Mining on June 15 to acknowledge and celebrate past, present and future women in mining.

The International Day of Women in Mining is intended to raise awareness of achievements so far, as well as the work that lies ahead to reach gender equality in the mining sector.

The yearly campaign will also promote actionable initiatives for the industry to collaborate on in an effort to become more inclusive.

On June 15, IWiM will commemorate the day with a two-hour virtual event featuring keynote presentations by guest speakers and interactive participation. The virtual event will be held between 15:00 and 17:00 South African time, under the theme #CelebrateWIM #CelebrateHer.

Guest speakers for the virtual event include BHP CTO and International Day of Women in Mining 2022 campaign ambassador Laura Tyler, International Council for Mining and Metals CEO Rohitesh Dhawan, University of Queensland Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining, Sustainable Minerals Institute director Professor Deanna Kemp, and De Beers Botswana former CEO and World Bank and African Development Bank natural resources policy adviser Sheila Khama.

Commenting on her motivation to become campaign ambassador, Tyler says that being the ambassador provides her with the chance to share her story, learn from others and promote women in mining to the globe.

IWiM director Barbara Dischinger says the organisation is inviting individual professionals, women in mining organisations, mining companies, academics, supply chain, technical and professional service consultancies, sector associations, governments, unions, and civil society to join it as IWiM celebrates women’s perseverance, contributions, talent and spirit in the mining sector.

“This day will mark a turning point for the mining sector and pave the way for industry stakeholders to continue working for an enduring and more sustainable sector,” she says.

As part of the build-up to the Day of Women in Mining and virtual conference, IWiM is encouraging the global mining sector value chain to get involved. Participation includes becoming an event partner; submitting videos and photographs showcasing women in mining’s daily work in the industry to IWiM; nominating pioneers, trendsetters and inspirational people; or hosting events within local mining ecosystems.