Celebrating the contributions of women to society, and their social, economic, and scientific achievements, International Women’s Day offers a moment to reflect on how women have transformed the global landscape. While the opportunities for women are publicized in the gem and jewelry sector, the challenges faced by women in gold mining are often left unaddressed. On March, 8 2022, International Women’s Day, Initiatives in Art and Culture will consider the roles women play, from the artisanal and small-scale mining to large scale operations during a one-and-a-half-hour virtual event.

Lisa Koenigsberg, President of Initiatives in Art and Culture, says, “We look forward to a rewarding conversation about the current situations of women in extractive industries and their role along the entire value chain. The goal of the discussion is to further equity in the mining sector, a goal which is linked to the realization of the UN SDGs. Equality is a fact, and IAC is committed to its realization. This first webinar on women in mining follows our participation in the RJC's SDG5 initiative, and we have only just begun. We are honored to partner with the World Gold Council.”

The March 8th virtual event will feature a powerhouse of women in gold mining: Adiki Ofeibea Ayitevie, Vice President, Sustainability & External Relations, Newmont Africa, Georgette Barnes Sakyi-Addo, Founder and Executive Director, Georgette Barnes Ltd. and Founder/President, Women in Mining - Ghana (WIM - Gh), Daniela Colaiacovo, Co-founder and CEO of Makal, and Anny Jaramillo, Mining Engineer and Planning Director, “Chede” Mining Organization. The webinar will be moderated by Lisa Koenigsberg, President, Initiatives in Art and Culture and by Terry Heymann, Chief Financial Officer, World Gold Council.

Led by experts with on the ground experience, “Digging Deep,” The International Women’s Day panel discussion, will cover challenges in an infiltered way. Topics include: specific career trajectories including challenges, milestones, and influences; gender bias; encouragement of and opportunities for young women in mining; cultural impact; geological and environmental impact on gender-related issues; and the realities behind the quest for equal opportunity. Insights from the viewpoints of gold production in the ASM and LSM sectors, advocacy, branding, and setting responsible sourcing standards will provide lively discourse, furthering transparency in the precious metals, mining, and jewelry sectors, including in the trade.

Terry Heymann, Chief Financial Officer of World Gold Council says, “We are delighted to be partnering with Initiatives in Arts and Culture on the upcoming webinar ‘Digging Deep: Women’s Roles in the Gold Mining Sector and the Quest for Equity.’ I look forward to this webinar and to speaking with our panel about their personal journeys, why they entered the sector and how the sector can attract and retain more female talent.”

Whether new to the trade or a seasoned industry veteran, the dialogue will offer insight and analysis of where the gold mining sector is now, and what it will take to bridge the gender gap needed to level up. International Women’s Day offers the opportune platform for exploring relevancy and impact that women have introduced into the gold mining sector, historically and continually.

All those participating in the gold and jewelry supply chain are encouraged to join the virtual symposium. For complimentary registration to attend “Digging Deep: Women’s Roles in the Gold Mining Sector and the Quest for Equity click here. To learn more about Initiatives in Art and Culture, visit http://artinitiatives.com, call 646-485-1952, or email info@artinitatives.com.