Women in Mining Canada Voting
Please register here to attend the Annual General Meeting here, taking place virtually on Friday, April 11th, 2025 at 1PM ET: Register Now.
The voting period closes April 4th, 2025 at 5PM ET. Please read the following text carefully before voting. There are five sections:
- Letter from the Chair
- Financial Statements
- Board Member Candidates
- Outgoing Board Members
- Continuing Board Members
Part 1 – Letter from the Chair
Part 2 – Financial Statements
Part 3 – Board of Directors Candidates
You will be asked to vote for up to six (6) candidates to be appointed to the Women in Mining Canada Board of Directors for a 3-year term. The candidates presented below have been vetted by the current Board of Directors. The candidates listed include any incumbent Board Directors looking to be re-elected for a second term. Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by first name. To view the candidates’ LinkedIn profiles, please click on their names.
Alina Antonie (incumbent)
Women in Mining Experience:
As a Board Director at Women in Mining Canada (WIMC), I lead the international relations area, establishing relationships with international women’s organizations and exploring mutually beneficial collaborations. I represent WIMC with the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR) as a key expert on the Changing Culture: Advancing Women’s Participation and Prosperity in Mining Project, supporting 3 new Towards Sustainable Mining protocols. I also contribute to MiHR’s Gender Equity in Mining (GEM) program, enhancing gender diversity awareness, equity, inclusion, and addressing workplace harassment.
Additionally, I am leading the launch the WIMC Toastmasters Club to enhance public speaking and leadership skills. I represent the organization at professional and governmental roundtables, including discussions with Natural Resources Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). In 2024, representing WIMC, I was featured in Canadian Mining Magazine with the article “Moving the Needle,” discussing efforts to increase women’s representation in the mining industry.
Description:
With extensive experience in audit, risk, governance, compliance, and crisis management, I have dedicated the last 17 years to providing professional services to major Canadian mining companies. As a strategic and results-oriented mining executive, I excel in building lasting relationships with Boards and all levels of management, developing value-added, risk-tailored, cost-effective, and resilient solutions for continuous improvement. My ability to foster collaboration and trust with stakeholders is a cornerstone of my professional approach.
Key Competencies:
- Board Leadership & Corporate Governance: Demonstrated expertise in advising Boards and leading Board Committees, ensuring robust governance frameworks and strategic oversight.
- Strategic & Financial Acumen: Skilled in strategic planning, financial management, and driving organizational growth.
- Audit, Risk & Crisis Management: Proficient in conducting comprehensive audits, managing risks, and navigating crisis situations with a composed and effective approach.
Currently, I serve as a Board Member for Women in Mining Canada, where I contribute to advancing the role of women in the mining sector. My previous roles include Chair of the Finance Committee and Board Member of a not-for-profit organization in Toronto, managing an annual budget of approximately $10 million.
I have completed advanced courses from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), significantly enhancing my understanding of board roles and responsibilities. This training has equipped me to contribute effectively to board governance and strategic decision-making, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations.
Elizabeth Mendonca
Women in Mining Experience:
N/A
Description:
I am deeply passionate about advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion, particularly as it relates to women in the mining industry. Having spent over 20 years in this sector, I’ve witnessed positive change, but I also recognize that significant work remains. I am eager to contribute my time and expertise to further this progress. I have benefited from attending various WIM events over the years, appreciating the valuable networking opportunities they provide, and I am excited by the prospect of supporting the Board in furthering its important work. Through my extensive network within the industry, I believe I can bring a diverse range of perspectives and connections to WIM Canada, strengthening its reach and impact.
Jennifer Cameron (incumbent)
Women in Mining Experience:
Jennifer joined Women in Mining Canada in 2020 as a volunteer with the Communications working group prior to being appointed to the Board in May 2021. In 2024, she was appointed Vice-Chair. During her five years with the organization, she has led the Communications committee, and contributed to the Programming, Awards and Sponsorship committees, and has represented Women in Mining Canada in several public speaking engagements.
Description:
Jennifer Cameron is the Director, Investor Relations at Dundee Precious Metals, a Canadian-based mid-tier precious metals producer. Jennifer has almost 20 years of experience as an investor relations and communications professional with publicly-listed mining companies. Her interest in the mining industry started as young child growing up in a Northern Ontario mining community. She feels very strongly that the mining industry represents significant opportunities for women, and that increasing gender representation and equity are the keys to the future success of mining.
Lola Prela
Women in Mining Experience:
N/A
Description:
With 20 years of experience in the mining sector, I have witnessed firsthand both the progress and the persistent challenges faced by women in our industry. As a female CFO to Dumas Mining Inc., I understand the barriers to advancement, the importance of mentorship, and the need for greater representation of women in leadership roles.
I want to become a Director for Women in Mining Canada because I am deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable industry. My career has been shaped by strong networks and advocates, and I believe it is my responsibility to pay it forward by supporting and empowering the next generation of women in our industry.
Through my work, I have led initiatives that drive organizational change, financial sustainability, and leadership development. I am passionate about advocating for economic equity, closing the wage gap and increasing representation. As a Director, I would bring a strategic financial perspective, leadership experience, and a collaborative approach to furthering WIM Canada’s mission.
Women in Mining Canada plays a crucial role in driving change, and I want to contribute to its continued success by helping shape policies, programs, and partnerships that create real impact. I am eager to leverage my experience and network to expand opportunities for women at all levels in the mining industry, ensuring a future where gender diversity is embedded in our sector’s culture.
Marie-Eve Clayton
Women in Mining Experience:
N/A
Description:
I’m a senior business leader, environmental engineer, mother of two, athlete, wife and overall ally to the members of communities to which I belong.
With over 25 years of leadership experience managing large teams and programs and driving revenue growth, it’s obvious to me that great professional success is possible through fostering genuine relationships and partnerships. My leadership style emphasizes inclusivity, development, support, backed by strategic, people-orientated and commercial growth mindset which I believe aligns perfectly with WIM. I have successfully led several businesses including ERM’s Canadian business from 2019-2023, after which time I took on commercial leadership of a global mining Account (supporting relationships and HSEC&HR program delivery).
I have a strong commitment to mentoring the next generation, and especially to empowering women and under-represented groups as evidenced by numerous previous roles:
- Former Sponsor to ERM’s North America Women’s Employee Resource Group
- Former Chair of the ERM Canada Foundation (investing in women’s livelihood)
- Former Director of Canadian Construction Women’s Association
- Former Director of an Indigenous Joint Venture
- Former Regional Committee Member of Starlight Foundation
- Volunteer Youth rugby coach
- Volunteer Treasurer of Lakeside pool
- Commercial Development Program Coach
- Sponsor of up-and-coming ERM Partners
Monica Danon-Schaffer
Women in Mining Experience:
This past year, I have volunteered with WIMC for both the International and Research Groups.
Description:
My extensive experience in mining safety within multiple jurisdictions allows me to have an informed opinion and voice where I can be a role model for and continue mentoring women in this industry. By being a director in this great organization I will have a platform to do so formally. With my international experience (including different languages), I would like to be a voice to share my involvement in mining and help those around me who might benefit from them. In addition, supporting women in mining is critical, as we know it continues to be a male-dominated industry. By walking through paths less travelled, sharing my learning and learning from others will contribute to a robust support system. It is important to encourage one another by walking the walk.
Specifically, my superpowers include prioritizing relationships both on the ground and with corporate, in a world dominated by men. My extensive contacts at the operational, management and corporate levels locally and worldwide within the mining industry will allow me to promote and advocate for the organization and its membership.
Having been an operation H&S lead (one of the many hats I wear as corporate safety manager) supporting people on the ground with conversion into action, has afforded me the opportunity to have a better understanding of daily issues at many mine sites, not just at the corporate level.
Rim Fayjhi
Women in Mining Experience:
This past year, I’ve been involved with WIM Montreal, where I lead the five-year strategic plan and help set measurable, trackable goals for the committee. I also help organize events that uplift women in mining. When I first joined the committee, I handled event communications, designing and sending e-mail invitations to over 500 members. I also volunteer with WIM Canada’s Partnerships Group, where I meet monthly with the lead and admin, contributing to partnership discussions and helping where needed.
Description:
Getting into mining opened a lot of doors for me, and I want to help other women find those same opportunities. As a Construction and Ventilation EIT in an underground gold mine, I see the realities of working on-site, where women are still underrepresented in technical roles. The industry is changing, but there’s still progress to be made, and I want to be part of that change.
I believe visibility starts early. If we want more women in mining, we need to make sure they see a place for themselves, whether they’re entering from university, trade school, or transitioning from other careers. That is why I stay involved, not just as a junior engineer, but as someone who participates in industry events, student initiatives, and outreach efforts. I have led the McGill University Canadian Mining Games team, helped students prepare for competitions, and taken part in events that promote women in technical roles, among others. At CMG 2024, I was awarded a Women in Mining Canada scholarship, recognizing my contributions to the industry and student engagement.
I have been involved with WIM Montreal in strategic planning and volunteer with WIM Canada’s Partnerships Group. I want to bring my energy and experience to WIM Canada as a director, contribute where I can, and support initiatives that help more women find their place in mining.
I might not have decades of experience, but I bring fresh energy, firsthand site experience, and a drive to make a difference!
Sekai Musoki (incumbent)
Women in Mining Experience:
Sekai Musoki is a dedicated supporter of gender diversity, equity, and inclusion within the mining sector. In her capacity as a board member of Women in Mining Canada, she has been instrumental in the creation and growth of the organization’s inaugural research grant program. The program, originally centered on DEI, has expanded to include support for technical research in mining conducted by women, guaranteeing that female researchers gain recognition and opportunities in a predominantly male field. This initiative serves to attract and retain women in mining while showcasing their innovative contributions to the industry.
Description:
Sekai Musoki is a civil engineer with significant experience in the mining sector, currently part of the field engineering team at BHP’s Jansen site. Her technical expertise, along with her leadership in promoting diversity, has established her as a prominent voice in the industry.
She graced the cover of the Canadian Institute of Mining magazine, sharing her journey as an emerging leader dedicated to gender equity. Her contributions go beyond mining; she is a member of the YWCA Saskatoon board, where she is dedicated to enhancing shelter services and fostering opportunities for women in non-traditional sectors like trucking and trades. She received a nomination for the YWCA Saskatoon Women of Distinction Award in acknowledgment of her significant impact.
Sekai plays a significant role in professional development initiatives, particularly through her involvement with the Women in Mining/Women in Nuclear Saskatchewan events committee. For three consecutive years, she has served as a mentor in the WIM/WIN mentorship program.
As a dedicated champion for systemic change, Sekai’s leadership focuses on providing women in male-dominated industries with the essential resources, mentorship, and advocacy required for their success. Through her efforts in corporate, non-profit, and mentorship arenas, she persistently advances the dialogue, nurturing an inclusive and equitable future for women in mining and beyond.
Valeria Cardozo Noriega (incumbent)
Women in Mining Experience:
Valeria joined Women in Mining Canada in 2022 as a board member and also took on the role of Treasurer of the organization since then. In her role, she is responsible for managing cash, overseeing budgets, and handling the finances of the non-profit organization.
Description:
Valeria is a Senior Manager in the Audit and Assurance practice of KPMG Canada, specializing in the Energy and Natural Resources sector. She has over 18 years of experience providing audit risk and control services to large and medium-sized companies in the mining industry. Over the last two years, she has dedicated to Sustainability Reporting and Assurance, where she is passionate about driving positive change through transparent and credible ESG reporting.
Her experience includes conducting business in Latin America, particularly in Peru for over 10 years, with an additional 2 years in the United Kingdom. Valeria has championed diversity and inclusion activities through her role as President of the KPMG Latin America Network, where she served for approximately seven years. This role was instrumental in building and promoting community and business-related activities focused on Latin America in the Greater Toronto Area. In addition, Valeria has been involved in leading the first external mentorship program for senior female managers in the mining industry, launched in 2021 at KPMG.
Valeria is also a former Treasurer of Hispanics in Mining, a leading Canadian non-profit organization that advocates for, connects, and empowers Latin American professionals in the mining industry. Additionally, she has been associated with the Peruvian Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Toronto, where she served in their mining chapter and held the role of Treasurer.
Part 4 – Outgoing Board Members
Women in Mining Canada would like to sincerely thank the following Board Members, who are stepping down. Their contributions to the organisation are greatly appreciated.
Maria Vallejo Garcia
Elected April 20, 2022
Description:
Maria is an experienced business professional with a background in mining engineering with a focus on novel techniques for financial valuation, and problem-solving strategies for complex mining projects. With more than 13 years of experience, she has worked with large-cap mining companies as well as prestigious equity firms and consulting companies. Her global knowledge spans mining ventures at all stages of development and across a variety of commodities.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mining and Metallurgy Engineering from Universidad Nacional de Colombia, a Master’s degree in Stochastic Mine Planning from McGill University, and a number of certifications and post-graduate diplomas. Maria is a firm believer in the importance of the economic empowerment that education and job opportunities can bring to women in STEM. Her own story of success and empowerment is her motivation to keep working for women’s rights, opportunities, participation, and retention in the mining industry. Maria is an advocate for mental health programs, reflecting her personal commitment to the importance of recognizing mental health as a pillar for the success of women in the workplace. In addition, Maria is an executive member of Hispano Mine and a professional mentor for CIM.
Uchitta Vashist
Elected April 12, 2023
Description:
Uchitta is the Principal Operational Technology Analyst at Lundin Mining Corporation. In her role, she is responsible for technology research, evaluation, and analysis of digital technologies for automation of mining operations. Uchitta holds Masters in both Mining and Chemical Engineering from Queen’s University and has almost 5 years of experience in the mining world which includes academic research, metallurgy operations & development projects, and most recently in operational technology. Uchitta joined Women in Mining Canada as a Volunteer in 2022 with the motivation of continued involvement in initiatives that support underrepresented groups and has been part of the Chapters committee. As an international student too, Uchitta was actively involved in the community and part of multiple student leadership roles at Queens University including Vice President (community relations) of the graduate student government. She has been a continuous member of international support groups promoting diversity as deputy international commissioner and co-founder of a culture awareness and peer mentorship club which is active and growing since its inception in 2019.
Part 5 – Continuing Board Members
The following Women in Mining Canada Board Members will be continuing on, as their terms are not yet complete.
Kristl Tipton
Elected April 19, 2024
Description:
Mrs Kristl Tipton is a professional geologist who has worked in mining and exploration for over 20 years. She is currently the Manager of Global Exploration at Nutrien. Her previous experience includes 11 years with Cameco’s global exploration group as a geologist in various roles as well as senior mine geologist at the Cigar Lake Operation. She transitioned to the potash industry in 2013 with a role at Mosaic Colonsay in the continuous improvement department as a management of change coordinator. As with many in 2015, she lost her job in the potash industry and decided to complete a Master’s degree in Geological Engineering specializing in hydrogeology. After a brief position as an environmental project manager with Tervita, she moved to the Nutrien Lanigan Potash Operation as a Senior Mine Geologist. In 2023 she transitioned back to her exploration roots and is now the Manager of Global Potash Exploration at Nutrien based in Saskatoon. Kristl is a current volunteer with the Mentorship Committee at Women in Mining and Women in Nuclear Saskatchewan Inc as well as a board member with the Society of Economic Geologists’ Publication Board. She has previously served as Board Chair for the Family Service Saskatoon Foundation, and as a board member with Women in Mining and Women in Nuclear Saskatchewan Inc.
Lisa Thiess
Elected April 19, 2024
Description:
Lisa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Queensland, Australia.
Her key specialties are full cycle recruitment, HR Analytics together with business development, within her current position at DRA she is actively involved in gender diversity and inclusion initiatives across the AMER region. She has dealt comprehensively with cross-cultural issues related to international recruitment and been engaged to assist in the recruitment start-up of numerous multi -billion-dollar mining projects in various geographical locations.
She has a passion for helping young professionals within the mining industry and directly mentors mining students within her position as Co-op Liaison Manager at McGill University. Lisa is a Career Ambassador for MIHR (Mining Industry Human Resource Council) which directly assists junior mining professionals with encouragement and support.
Previously volunteering with WIM Canada before joining the Board of Directors.
Melissa Ng
Elected March 10, 2021 (first term)
Electec April 19, 2024 (second term)
Chair since April 20, 2022
Description:
Melissa is a Professional Geologist with deep rooted operational and exploration experience in the mining industry. During this time, she has held several geology positions with multiple North American mining companies in various commodities. This type of site-based rotation work has allowed her to pursue her passion while maintaining her family’s home base in Edmonton, AB. She holds an MBA from Athabasca University and a B.Sc. from the University of Alberta. She is an active member of mine rescue and emergency response and is a dynamic part of growth and change at the companies she works for. Her current role as the Chief Geologist at one of Cameco Corporation’s northern operations allows her to lead and develop young minds along their career and leadership journeys. Her personal leadership philosophy is: support those around you and allow them to become better than you ever were!
Rashida McLean
Elected April 12, 2023
Secretary since May 3, 2024
Description:
Ms. McLean has 12 years of legal, corporate governance and regulatory compliance experience in the mining, renewable energy, banking, and oil and gas sectors. She is presently Corporate Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Africa Oil Corp., a Canadian oil and gas company with producing and development assets in deepwater Nigeria; development assets in Kenya; and an exploration/appraisal portfolio in Africa, as well as Guyana. Prior to joining Africa Oil Corp., Ms. McLean served as Corporate Counsel for Lundin Gold Inc., a Canadian mining company that owns the Fruta del Norte gold mine in southeast Ecuador. Ms. McLean has been involved in a broad range of corporate transactions and corporate governance matters for several publicly listed companies. She has served as Corporate Secretary for Orca Gold Inc. a Canadian resource company focused on exploration and development opportunities, prior to the company’s acquisition by Perseus Mining Limited. She has also served as Legal Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Finavera Wind Energy Inc., now Solar Alliance Energy Inc. Ms. McLean graduated
from the University of Toronto with a B.A.(Hons) and then received her law degree from the University of Victoria. She is a member of both the British Columbia and Ontario Bars.
Sabrina Perron-Fortin
Elected April 19, 2024
Description:
Sabrina brings over 10 years of procurement experience in the mining industry. Currently she serves as a Senior Procurement Advisor at Rio Tinto, where she leads various global procurement initiatives aimed at improving ways of working. She holds a degree in Logistics and Operations management from HEC Montreal, and an MBA from the same institution. Passionate about women’s equality rights, Sabrina has demonstrated her commitment through her previous role as President of the HEC MBA Women in Leadership Club and her current position as a Board of Director of Women in Mining Canada. She is also a volunteer at the Dr. Julien Foundation, which seeks to deliver social pediatrics services in vulnerable communities, believing that our future generations will be a pillar for an even more diverse and inclusion world.
