International Day of Women in Mining (IDWIM) is an annual global campaign that seeks to raise awareness of the importance of gender diversity and inclusivity in the mining industry. By showcasing the achievements of all who identify as women in mining and promoting best practices, the day aims to inspire positive change and encourage stakeholders to become champions of gender equity.   

By harnessing the collective efforts of industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates, IDWIM strives to create a more equitable and inclusive future for all members of the mining community. 

IWiM Director, Barbara Dischinger extends a warm global invitation to all – not just women – to celebrate women’s perseverance, contributions, talent, and spirit in the mining sector.   

“Join us at IDWIM 2024 as we gather to reaffirm our collective commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and empowerment within the mining industry. Let us harness the power of unity and collaboration to pave the way for a mining industry that celebrates the richness of its diverse talent and ensures equitable opportunities for all. Together, we can build a brighter future where every voice is heard, every perspective is valued, and every individual can reach their full potential.” – Barbara Dischinger 

IWiM is pleased to announce that the new International Day of Women in Mining Campaign Ambassador this year is Amparo Cornejo, Vice President South America, Teck Resources Limited. 

She is committed to a new mining sector that contributes to the development and well-being of people by integrating local communities, working towards the inclusion of more women in the industry and moving towards the highest environmental standards. Amparo has recently been recognised as Executive of the Year in Chile by EY and El Mercurio. This prestigious honour recognises her leadership and record of raising the bar for social and environmental performance across our industry. 

 “I feel a strong commitment to continue opening spaces for meaningful leadership for women in mining and contributing to the transformation our industry requires to provide equal opportunities for all, connect more deeply with people, and responsibly produce the minerals needed for a cleaner and more sustainable world.

  “From Latin America, in Chile, one of the world’s leading copper producers, I am very honored to be the ambassador of IDWIM 2024. I support the visibility of this international celebration event on the contribution of women in mining to inspire more inclusion, equity and diversity.” – Amparo Cornejo

The IDWIM 2024 theme ‘I am mining and I belong’ carries a powerful message of inclusion, empowerment, claiming space, and advocating for positive change within an industry undergoing transformation. As the mining sector evolves, this phrase serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse individuals who contribute to it and the importance of creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for all. 

IDWIM 2024 will be marked by many organisations. At IWiM we are celebrating with a two-hour (14:00 to 16:00 BST) virtual event on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. During the event, guest speakers will share their work, practices and values on gender inclusion for women in mining everywhere. We trust the industry will learn and be inspired by their examples. 

Confirmed guest speakers and panellists include: 

• Amparo Cornejo, Vice President South America, Teck Resources Limited, and 2024 International Day of Women in Mining Campaign Ambassador.
• Mpumi Zikalala, Chief Executive Officer, Kumba Iron Ore, a member of the Anglo American Group, and 2023 International Day of Women in Mining Campaign Ambassador.
• Nelly Pazó León, Director, Non-operated JVs Minerals Americas, BHP, member of IWiM’s Advisory Council and IDWIM 2024 host.

In anticipation of the day, IWiM encourages the global mining sector value chain to get involved by: 

• sharing content (videos and images) showcasing daily industry work with us
• hosting IDWIM 2024 celebration events with your local mining ecosystem
• voting for your preferred photos in our “I am Mining” Photo competition; winners announced during IWiM’s IDWIM event.