The Pendulum Isn’t Swinging

Inclusion isn’t about tipping the scales so far that we end up in some kind of dystopian Barbie-movie world where men are sidelined and women take over everything. If that’s what we’re aiming for, we’ve missed the entire point of inclusion and diversity. Yet, this is often the argument I hear when I support all-women panels or advocate for higher rates of female participation in events.

“I don’t agree with all-women panels because it excludes men.”

I hear this statement far too often, and it simply doesn’t hold up. Here's why: all-male panels are still normalized, often excused with “we couldn’t find any women,” and rarely face the same scrutiny. We all agree that the best panels—whether at events, conferences, or keynotes—are diverse in gender, race, ethnicity, and expertise. But achieving that ideal requires intentional effort.

Why All-Women Panels Matter

I fully support all-women panels and events in mining because they are necessary. They shine a spotlight on women’s voices in an industry where we’re still underrepresented. Pulling together an all-female panel isn’t easy, particularly for technical and financial topics where women are fewer than in functions like Corporate, ESG, or HR. When I see an all-women panel discussing complex, technical issues rather than being relegated to topics like wellness or self-help, it’s both refreshing and affirming.

And it’s proof that the pendulum isn’t swinging in favor of women—especially not in mining.

Intentional Representation Matters

Whenever I organize a panel or event, I intentionally seek out women to fill the spots. But even this intentionality has its challenges. My own network has limitations, and I need to ensure that the women I’m including aren’t just women who look like me. Without diverse representation—across race, ethnicity, and lived experience—I haven’t truly done the work.

This intentional approach isn’t just about meeting a quota; it’s about recognizing and celebrating the incredible talent in this industry. I have the privilege of speaking with some of the smartest, most creative women in mining every day. It’s a constant reminder of why inclusion must be more than a buzzword—it must be actionable.

The Pendulum Isn’t Swinging Yet

We can confidently say the pendulum hasn’t swung in favour of women. Especially not for women of colour, Indigenous women, or others from underrepresented backgrounds. Until it becomes the norm to see women equally represented, we must keep doing the work. We need to carve out space—not just for women’s voices, but for diverse women’s voices—in every corner of this industry.

So, to those event organizers curating all-women panels: I see you, and I commend you. The work you’re doing is important. And for anyone questioning why these spaces exist, here’s your answer: they’re needed.

Let’s stop worrying about imaginary pendulums and focus on building real, meaningful representation in mining. Only then can we truly move toward an inclusive industry—one where diversity isn’t an exception but the rule.