Women in Mining Argentina (WIM Argentina), representative of International Women in Mining in the country, highlighted in its monthly newsletter an unprecedented event in La Rioja. The “Mining Working Group: Rioja Women in Mining Development” brought together 40 women at the Technological Poleunderlining the crucial role of women in mining.
This historic event, organized by the Ministry of Communication and Public Planning and coordinated by the Ministry of Mining of the Riojan Government, addressed the role of women in an industry traditionally dominated by men. Topics were discussed such as visibility of female work, the development of the mining industry from social, economic and environmental perspectives, and international requirements in sustainability and energy paradigm changealigned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Marita Smokydirector of the WIM Argentina Advisory Committee and the only speaker at the work table, highlighted the organizational and commitment capacity of Rioja women. Ahumada expressed that her expectations were exceeded when she found a consolidated project and women highly committed to the economic and social development of the province through mining.
The Government of La Rioja designed an ambitious Sustainable Development Plan for mining activity, based on sustainability and social legitimacy. This plan recognizes the potential for progress that mining can offer the province, underscoring the importance of protecting the natural environment and ensuring equitable benefits for local communities, always respecting Human Rights. The sustainable development of mining implies a balance between economic progress, social well-being and environmental protection, objectives in which women play a fundamental role.
In this context, Ahumada announced that WIM Argentina will participate in the VII WIM Peru Mentoring Program and the 3rd International Edition, which begins this month. This program, which also includes WIM Brazil, WIM Ecuador, WIM Mexico and WIM UK, has Argentina among the three countries with the highest participation, after Peru.
The WIM Peru Mentoring Program is a virtual support initiative for the professional development of women in mining. Its objective is to promote personal and professional growth through the exchange of knowledge, skills and experiences.. For six months, participants will work on identifying goals related to promotions, professional advancement, and development of sustainable skills over time.
Ahumada explained that The decision to do this international mentoring seeks to increase the visibility of women in mining and promote practical sisterhood between women with similar objectives..
WIM Argentina is the national representation of International Women in Mining and a reference in the promotion of women as a force for development in mining in the new decade. Through the participation of professionals and leaders of the sector, WIM Argentina promotes policies and actions that promote equity and equal opportunities for women in the mining industry..
This event in La Rioja marks a milestone on the inclusion of women in mining, highlighting their essential role in sustainable development and the transformation of the industry towards a more equitable and sustainable future.
