Each year, the mining industry comes together to champion equity across the sector as part of the International Day of Women in Mining (IDWIM).

The 2025 theme, “Voices of Impact,” aims to amplify the experiences, knowledge, and strength of the women shaping the sector’s future.

For International Day of Women in Mining 2025, we asked women across our global network to reflect on the theme and share their thoughts on three key areas: Integrity in Action, Collective Empowerment, and Advice for the Next Generation.

WHAT DOES INTEGRITY IN ACTION MEAN TO YOU?

In mining, integrity underpins safety, quality, and trust. For our team, it’s about living those values every day, through consistency, transparency, and accountability.

‘Integrity in action is a full-time commitment to honesty, dependability, and loyalty. Clients depend on my reports, so I must ensure results are accurate, use trusted methods, and follow quality control and quality assurance protocols.’

Seadimo Raphaka,
Senior Chemist, Botswana

‘Integrity in action means keeping up the faith, principles, and the daily review of the moments where things went wrong, and what can be done to improve. Following the above is like going up a ladder; if steps have been missed, you need to catch up with it at some cost.’

Jo Wang,
Laboratory Manager, UK

‘For me and the laboratory, it means standardised testing, authentic data, fairness, independence, and transparent customer communication. We implement this through quality systems and culture, audits, collaboration, non-conformity analysis, and training.’

Leah Li,
AHK Tianjin Laboratory Quality Officer, China

‘It’s important to understand others’ limitations and help them reach their goals. It may sound redundant, but we need to relearn the true meaning of the word “empathy”. Being available to listen, in other words, the way we relate to one another, is a noble feeling.’

Luana Cagnani,
Business Development Manager, Brazil

HOW CAN WE ACHIEVE COLLECTIVE EMPOWERMENT?

Empowerment isn’t an individual act, it’s a collective effort. Our colleagues describe the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and solidarity in building a supportive environment.

‘As one of the original members of AHK Indonesia, I’ve seen how teamwork and mentorship help develop newcomers, enabling them to excel. We can lift each other by sharing knowledge and creating a supportive culture.’

Nancy Maria,
Head of Administration, Indonesia

‘The true embodiment of empowerment and support is when leadership shows trust. Getting a message that says, “I trust your judgement and decision making. Please take the action you believe is most appropriate.” is a huge motivator.’

Kristi Brells,
Regional General Manager, USA

‘During a challenging mine site project, my mentor provided support and reassurance, helping me complete the project successfully and boosting my confidence. I felt truly empowered knowing I had someone in my corner who believed in my abilities.’

Dr Florence Michael,
Human Resource Manager, Botswana

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THE NEXT GENERATION OF WOMEN IN MINING?

‘Allow yourself to learn the key aspects of your job by becoming a team player and seeking mentorship. Stay ethical in what you do, ask questions and communicate shortcomings.’
Seadimo Raphaka

‘Find your value in the industry. Always be patient, passionate, and sympathetic. Mining isn’t a land of cold unknowns, it’s a land of fun, creation with warm people.’
Jo Wang

‘Our unique systematic thinking, ability to control details, and empathy as women are scarce resources. The strictest standards can’t retain true innovators. The best innovators let standards grow with them.’
Leah Li

‘As women, our unique perspectives and skills will make a real difference in the industry. Keep believing in yourself, stay strong, and never give up on your dreams. Surround yourself with supportive people, seek mentorship and do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it.’
Nancy Maria

‘Never negotiate your integrity. It’s the one thing that is yours. It cannot be compromised without your permission.’
Kristi Brells

‘Believe in your strength, embrace your unique perspective, and know that your contributions are vital. Trust in your abilities, stay resilient in the face of challenges, and remember that diversity and inclusion are powerful forces for innovation and progress in mining.’
Dr Florence Michael

‘Never give up — keep going in the direction of success! Believe in yourself! The world of metals and minerals is amazing, and it will be even more amazing with a feminine touch!’
Luana Cagnani

INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN MINING?

Whether you’re looking to learn while you earn with an apprenticeship, kickstart your professional career with a graduate role, or take the next step, Alfred H Knight has career opportunities worldwide. Explore our careers page to learn more.