The power of putting yourself out there with a positive attitude
The theme of the AusIMM's 2025 International Women’s Day Series, 'Driving Positive Change Together,' greatly resonates with my personal and professional journey over the past year.
A year ago, my connection to the mining industry was limited, knowing only one person working in the sector and without considering it as a career path post-university. However, by actively engaging with industry professionals and embracing new opportunities, I have developed a strong passion for this industry, which is continually striving for a better future, and I am now eager to pursue a resource-related graduate program.
My experiences over the past year have been transformative as I stepped out of my comfort zone. Through meaningful networking, internships, and participation in industry events, I have gained valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the resources sector. These experiences have reinforced the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and striving for inclusivity, which motivates me to contribute to help driving this positive change in the industry.
Growing up in a small country town, my dreams were initially shaped by my family's agricultural business and the environmental hurdles the sector faced. This upbringing taught me invaluable lessons about curiosity, teamwork, and resilience—values that have steered me towards the resources sector. I learned to question the status quo, take a keen interest in my surroundings, and appreciate the importance of working together. These guiding principles have greatly influenced my journey, allowing me to navigate the industry with enthusiasm and build meaningful connections that are crucial for my personal and professional development.
The inspiration to inspire and cultivate positive change stems from the most influential role model in my life: my mum. She instilled in me the importance of helping others, always going the extra mile to ensure that everyone around her felt valued and included. Growing up in an environment filled with generosity and kindness, I didn't fully appreciate the depth of these lessons until her passing when I was sixteen. During her funeral, the overwhelming presence of those whose lives she had touched profoundly impacted me, cementing the ideals she lived by as a guiding force in my life. Her example taught me that carrying forward these ideals of positivity and inclusion is not just a personal tribute, but a professional duty.
The loss of my mum was a pivotal moment, leading me on a journey for purpose and a deeper understanding of how I could meaningfully contribute to others' lives. My experiences mentoring Indigenous high school students opened my eyes to the power of support and encouragement, reinforcing my commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. As I continue this journey, I am determined to create spaces where everyone feels valued, and empowered to achieve their true potential, carrying forward the legacy of positivity and inclusion that my mum left behind.
In this endeavour, I am more eager than ever to contribute to the mining industry's growth. Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion, I look forward to being a part of the efforts that encourage varied perspectives and shared growth. As the 2025 Epiroc Women in Mining Ambassador, I strive to set an example, bring together individuals to work together and build a more inclusive future. By leveraging the values taught to me by my mum and the experiences gained along my journey, I aim to help create environments that thrive on collaboration and mutual respect, making a lasting impact on the resources sector and beyond. These values have underpinned every aspect of my journey and remain integral as I look to make meaningful contributions.