UNIQ You proudly celebrates International Women in Mining Day by spotlighting the incredible women leading change in the sector. This year’s theme, “Voices of Impact: A Year of Resilience and Recognition,” honours the strength, innovation, and leadership of women across all levels of the mining industry.
It’s about recognising the achievements of women who have shaped the mining landscape and encouraging the next generation to step into this evolving space with confidence.
In celebration, we’re sharing the voices of women from Rio Tinto. We’ve asked each woman to respond to the question:
“What advice do you have to give to the next generation of women in mining?”
Explore the responses below as we celebrate their voices.
Pooja Arora – Manager Agile Delivery
2.5 years’ experience in the industry.
“Just because the word ‘mining’ starts with an ‘M’ doesn’t mean it’s just for men. This industry is for everyone—and that includes women who want to lead, innovate, and make an impact.
Mining is about so much more than digging. It’s about advanced technology, smart problem-solving, sustainability, and keeping critical systems running—from the mine site and processing plants to the IT and digital infrastructure behind it all.
Women are already shaping the future of mining—as engineers, safety professionals, data scientists, tradespeople, environmental leaders, and more. And here’s the truth: when you turn mining upside down and put women in it—you get winning.
If you’re curious, capable, and looking for a career that challenges and empowers you, mining has a place with your name on it.”
“No matter where your career takes you in mining, always keep your focus on the orebody and its broader impact on all stakeholders—shareholders, the community, and the environment—to minimize the need for overcorrection. Shareholders provide the financial strength to sustain the business, the community gives it purpose, and the environment serves as the ultimate measure of whether the job has been done responsibly. Develop your unique strengths and stand out.”
Baigal Tumurkhuyag
Lesley Bryce – General Manager Strategic Projects
20 years’ experience in the industry.
“If you want to do something, give it a try. There are so many different roles in mining that there will be one waiting for you!”
“Have confidence. You will find your place.
Clare Mawdesley
You will come across many who have limitless bravado and bluster. You don’t have to. Run your own race. Lift as you climb. Remember to look around you, help others. Support other women.”
Rose Pedler – Blasthole Driller
14 years’ experience in the industry.
“Take up space. You have just as much intelligence, work ethic, skill, strength and right to do the role you WANT to do, as anyone else. Do not allow anyone to dictate how you want to live your life, and do not lessen yourself for others. You are our future, you will be a changemaker even in the tiniest of ways, you are incredibly capable and you will be fantastic.”