WIMARSG Member Spotlight - Jarek Mlodziejewski

Title: WIMAR Singapore Member Spotlight - Jarek Mlodziejewski

Authors: Troy McNamara , Jay Ahn , Ryan Chin and Jarek M.

Founded in 2013, @WIMARSG is a mining community that provides networking, mentoring and professional development opportunities to both men and women alike in Singapore's mining and resource industry. Together, we progress through the volatile status quo with inspiring and passionate leaders who come together to become advocates for change. Today, let’s meet one of our members from the Events and Development Professional Team, Jarek.

For this article, we asked Jarek Mlodziejewski about his time, motivations and vision for WIMAR Singapore.?

Troy Mcnamara:?

1. Hey Jarek, thank you for your time!? Could you kindly tell us a little bit about yourself?

Jarek? Mlodziejewski:

Something unique about my background is that I hold three nationalities. I was born in South Africa to Polish parents and later became a naturalised citizen of New Zealand. Among the countries I have lived in, Singapore holds the record for being the place where I have resided the longest, with a decade of experience. South Africa and New Zealand, on the other hand, saw me living for 8 years each.

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I pursued my education in both Spain and the UK. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to work in several countries, including Canada, Italy, France, Australia, Kosovo, Ukraine, and Serbia, spending at least a year in each location.

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I started working in Singapore as a coking coal interdealer broker. However, I later returned to my previous company, Platts TSI, where I have been employed on and off for the past 10 years. Throughout my tenure at Platts, my responsibilities have primarily revolved around developing content. This has involved tasks such as creating metal indices for market use. Currently, I am a part of the commercial team at S&P, where I am accountable for metals sales and the APAC region.

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During my leisure time, I enjoy watching and playing a wide variety of sports. I am a dedicated follower of the Black Caps in cricket, the All Blacks in rugby, and Manchester United in football—a team I have supported since I was 8 years old.

Troy Mcnamara:?

2. Tell me more about your experience in WIMAR.

Jarek Mlodziejewski:

In late 2021, I joined WIMAR, where I assumed the role of a board member and took charge of the Events & Professional Development team. Leading a team of 16 dedicated volunteers, some of whom have been with the events team for as long as I have, is both rewarding and challenging. I strongly believe in providing my team members with the space and opportunity to engage and contribute in their own unique ways, considering they are volunteers. Even when I am away, I have complete confidence in my co-lead, who happens to be my wife, and the rest of the team to continue making valuable contributions.

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The first event for me was the International Women's Day (IWD), which was one of the last of the virtual events. In addition to IWD, we have worked on various other events such as Happiness at Work, Amplifier Events, Fireside Chats, and the Gala Dinner. The Gala Dinner stands out as a particularly memorable experience from last year.?

Many people were looking forward to the Gala Dinner, considering that it was one of our major events post-COVID. While it may have appeared effortless on the surface, a considerable amount of time and effort went into coordinating with vendors and ensuring every detail was taken care of behind the scenes. The outcome was truly gratifying, as the Gala Dinner received positive feedback and was enjoyed by many attendees.

Troy Mcnamara:?

3. How would you describe the WIMAR mission to a 7-year old child?

Jarek Mlodziejewski:

Imagine a world where everyone is treated the same, no matter if they are a man or a woman. Unfortunately, this is not the case. WIMAR wants to make it happen, by providing women with the same opportunities as men, so that everyone has a fair chance to do well in their career. We also help people to make more friends with each other in the industry. WIMAR believes that it is important for everyone to have equal opportunities and be treated the same.

Troy Mcnamara:?

4. What do you want to see happen in Singapore in the next 5 - 10 years?

Jarek Mlodziejewski:

In the UK, a new law was introduced, requiring companies with over 250 employees to publicly share information about the difference in pay between men and women in their organisation. While progress may vary among different companies, you do see the gender pay gap gradually decreasing in the UK.

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If a similar law was to be implemented in Singapore, it would spark more discussions and prompt people to take more active measures to address and reduce the gender pay disparity. It would create awareness and encourage companies to take active actions to close the pay disparity. It would also promote transparency and encourage organisations to prioritise fair pay practices, for a more equitable working environment.

Troy Mcnamara:?

5. What advice do you have for aspiring leaders in the mining industry, both Singapore and globally?

Jarek Mlodziejewski:

Traditionally, it is believed that being a good leader meant being stoic and distant, giving orders from a distance. However, times are changing. I believe that being authentic and true to yourself is more important in leadership. You don't have to adopt a specific persona at work to be an effective leader. You can be genuine, drive your team, and make a significant impact without pretending to be someone you're not. It's possible to connect with your team members, show empathy, and still be a strong leader. Additionally, setting a good example is crucial in leadership.

Are you looking to give back? Drop us an email at [email protected] to join one of WIMAR’s active committees.