June 27, 2022 - While mining companies undergo major organisational transformation. The subject of women in mining continues to take the spotlight. As the month of June marks International Day of Women in Mining, International Women in Mining (IWiM) launched the anniversary with finesse.

The campaign was launched during a 2-hour virtual event and was attended by over 1,000 participants from across the globe. Among participants were mining professionals from mining companies, suppliers and industry associations, academia and students in the area, as well as governments, unions, and civil society
representatives.

“It was amazing to see the industry come together in celebration of the achievements to date, and to build a community which will enhance practices and activities collectively. This campaign is an opportunity for individuals, companies and organisations to collaborate and work on progressive initiatives that address the current requirements for more and better diversity, equity and inclusion in the industry. We are looking forward to the campaign continuing its work throughout the year.” said IWiM Founder and Director, Barbara Dischinger.

The event programme included inspiring keynotes from industry experts, interactive polls, competitions and actionable projects for the industry to get involved.

Relevant first-time announcements made during IDWIM included Keynote speaker Rohitesh Dhawan, ICMM CEO who believes that “unless we walk the walk…the outcomes will not change substantially,” and announced for first time in a public forum “about the steps being taken to improve the outcomes of diversity, equity and inclusion, which is a critical challenge for us an industry to address.”

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This included an update to ICMM’s Mining Principles, which reinforces the integral role of DEI to sustainable development, the actions needed to eliminate all forms of harassment and unfair discrimination from our workplaces, proactive steps to achieve gender equality and the unencumbered participation of all peoples, and cementing the importance of psychological safety alongside physical health and safety in the ICMM’s efforts to achieve zero harm.

IWiM launched a new webpage called “Respect at Work.” This initiative is a resource for survivors to anonymously share their stories of discrimination, bullying, racism, harassment and all forms of gender-based violence. IWiM believes this resource serves to raise awareness for everyone who works in the industry, regardless of their gender and how they self-identify.

IDWIM sponsor Covergalls Workwear launched their new maternity wear line during the celebration. Their maternity cargo pants and work shirts are specially designed for every pregnancy stage, while also being high visibility and flame resistant.