An industry-first approach to diversity and inclusion has seen Anglo American recognised with two awards at the prestigious 2024 QRC/WIMARQ Resources Awards for Women in Queensland.
Anglo American – which operates five steelmaking coal mines in the Bowen Basin – took out the award for Excellence in Diversity Programs and Performance for a suite of programs designed to drive female leadership.
The Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Queensland Resources award went to our Workplace Support Manger Kanae Dyas, who has pioneered a program dedicated to supporting our women while committing to zero tolerance of bullying, sexual harassment or discrimination.
Dragline operator Vanessa Southey, who works at our Dawson Mine near Moura and is in her 40th year in the mining industry, was also named a finalist in the Exceptional Tradeswoman/Operator/Technician category.
Anglo American CEO in Australia, Dan van der Westhuizen, said Kanae and Vanessa’s contributions to the mining industry were truly exceptional and their achievements were inspiring.
Speaking at today’s awards, Dan said Anglo American has been deeply honoured to have been the major sponsor of this prestigious event and sent his congratulations to this year’s finalists and winners.
“Anglo American has long been, and will long be, a passionate supporter of these awards, and to all of the winners and finalists - it’s been our privilege to celebrate your greatness and achievements,” he said.
“For Anglo American to be part of this group has been truly humbling, and something I am immensely proud of.”
Dan highlighted that this recognition has come off the back of a concerted effort over several years to increase the number of females in leadership positions across the company’s steelmaking coal operations.
“The introduction of a suite of programs – including Enabling You, RealYOU, Let’s Listen Forums and WoMine - have helped us create a more supportive environment and had a positive and sustainable impact on our company’s culture,” he said.
“I also congratulate Kanae, the passionate force behind our industry-first Workplace Support Unit, for taking out the Inclusion and Diversity Champion award.
“She has already made great strides in improving our culture; ensuring we have safe spaces for people to speak up, share ideas and accountability when it comes to psychological and cultural safety.
“Our Exceptional Tradeswoman finalist Vanessa Southey is a true inspiration as a female pioneer of the mining industry in Queensland.
“She has overcome bias, diversity barriers and personal challenges to become an authentic example of a resilient and inspirational female leader in the field.”
In his closing remarks, Dan noted that the sheer number of people involved in this event highlights the commitment and significant effort across the entire resources sector to provide a diverse and inclusive workplace where women and girls are supported to reach their full potential.
“We know that the journey towards gender equality is far from over. As a leader in this sector, I know that the buck stops with me – we must remain 100 per cent committed to fostering a culture where every person, every day across every site, feels safe, respected and empowered to be their best self at work,” said Dan.