In today’s corporate world, fostering an inclusive work environment has become not just a moral imperative but a strategic business priority. Inclusion goes beyond merely having a diverse workforce; it encompasses creating a culture where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.
For so many years, the mining industry has been a male dominated one, with limited representation and opportunities for women. This imbalance is reflected not only in the workforce composition but also in leadership positions. Some women have faced barriers to entry and advancement in the mining industry, including systematic biases, cultural norms, and workplace environments that were often unwelcoming or hostile to female employees.
Records show that as of 2023, only 20% of women were employed in the mining sector globally. It is for this reason that Newmont, the world’s leading gold mining company, has taken proactive steps to change the status quo and make the mining industry an attractive profession for women.
Newmont has made several strides in this regard; consciously making inclusion one of its core values, and creating an environment where everyone, irrespective of their differences, has the opportunity to contribute, develop and work together to deliver on the business strategy.
Across its operations in Ghana, a significant number of women are blazing the trail – working as Geoscientists, Mining and Metallurgical Engineers, Chief Mine Surveyors, truck operators, and many more. You may have heard that Newmont is establishing its third mine in Africa – the Ahafo North Project.
To advance its inclusion agenda, the Ahafo North Project has committed to progressively employ 50% of its workforce as women. Currently, women make up 33% of the project’s employee workforce.
Additionally, the company has instituted several initiatives like the Women and Allies Business Resource Group, the Female Top-Up programme where females from our host communities are trained to increase their chances of being hired by Newmont and the mining industry.
In celebrating women’s month, this article puts a spotlight on some amazing women in Newmont’s Ahafo North project who are excelling in their respective fields.
Anita Yentumi is a Metallurgical Engineer for Newmont’s Ahafo North Project Processing Team. She is responsible for developing metallurgical procedures, standards, and reporting templates. Additionally, she leads projects related to the setting up of the Metallurgical Laboratory and oversees the completion of Ahafo North’s Metallurgical Business Readiness Plans.
In 2022, Anita was adjudged the overall best candidate for the Chemical/Mining Technical Division for the Ghana Institution of Engineering Professional Examinations at the 35th Engineers Induction Ceremony. Anita is an advocate for increased female participation in STEM education.
Vincentia Ametephe is a dedicated professional with a passion for Exploration Geology. She is currently an Exploration Geoscientist at Newmont Ahafo North Project and is responsible for monitoring day-to-day technical drilling operations, ensuring compliance and safety standards, managing geological data collection, supervising the preparation of drill core samples, and ensuring adherence to quality control and assurance procedures. “The company advocates for equal opportunities, regardless of demographic factors such as gender or ethnicity,” she said.
Fatima Adjei is the Chief Mine Surveyor for Newmont’s Ahafo North Project. Her role involves leading and controlling the efficient development and implementation of operating mine survey activities.
Fatima says, “I like Newmont because it is one of the few companies in this country that is very people – centered.’’ Fatima holds a BSc in Geomatic Engineering from KNUST and an MSc in Engineering Project Management from Coventry University. She is a member of the Ghana Institution of Engineers (GhIE), Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS) and the Project Management Institute Ghana Chapter (PMI-Ghana).
Yvonne Amoah is an innovative female who has a background in Natural Resource Management from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. She is currently an Environmental Technician for reclamation and waste management with the Ahafo North Project. “I am a proud employee because Newmont values inclusion and integrity. Also, the company’s commitment aligns with my career aspirations,” she said. Yvonne believes in being independent, self-sufficient, and personal growth.
In conclusion, the spotlights on some of these remarkable women at the Newmont Ahafo North Project serves as powerful reminders of the invaluable contributions women make in Newmont and the world at large. Their dedication, resilience, and achievements not only inspire but also underscore the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. With March out of the way, the mining sector and the society at large must continue to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that it is through embracing the unique talents and perspectives of all individuals that innovation, progress, and lasting positive change can be achieved.
