FROM MINE TO FINGER - Meeting nr° 3 - SOUTH AFRICA - Geetha Maharaj x Jenna Clifford Interview

OWIT aims to advocate for Women in International Trade by conducting analysis of the value chains. For the year 2024 we are aiming at analyzing the value chain of Gems and precious metals. This endeavor involves a comprehensive examination of the roles women occupy and the underlying reasons for their positioning. In instances where a sector manifests gender bias and imbalance, OWIT endeavors to identify and accentuate factors that could instigate transformative change.
Recognizing that achieving gender balance requires a nuanced understanding of a sector's history and implicit norms, OWIT emphasizes the necessity of delving into these aspects. Without a profound comprehension of a sector's historical context, societal norms, industry customs and unspoken rules, efforts to attain gender equality may lack the contextual insights needed for meaningful impact.
Economic empowerment is a crucial aspect of gender equality.
Background:
The role of women in the gems and precious metals industry has evolved significantly over time, shaped by historical, cultural, and economic factors. Historically, this industry has been male-dominated, with women often relegated to ancillary roles such as jewelry crafting and support positions, reflecting societal norms and gender stereotypes.
Women faced significant barriers to entry in many mining operations, with limited access to resources and challenging working conditions. However, recent years have seen a gradual shift towards promoting gender-inclusive practices in mining and extraction, although these changes vary by region.
Women have traditionally played significant roles in artisanal jewelry-making and crafting, contributing to the processing and manufacturing stages of the value chain. Initiatives to enhance women's skills and empower them in these roles have emerged, offering training opportunities to improve their economic prospects.
Despite facing challenges in directly accessing markets and limited representation in gem and precious metal trading, there has been a rise in women entrepreneurs entering the trading and marketing sectors, bringing diversity and new perspectives.
Gender-based challenges such as unequal pay, limited advancement opportunities, and stereotyping persist, especially in mining, where working conditions often pose health and safety risks for women. However, efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusion have gained momentum, with companies and industry stakeholders recognizing the value of women's contributions.
Organizations have implemented policies to address gender disparities, fostering a more equitable and inclusive industry. Initiatives promoting education and skill development for women aim to empower them to take on more diverse roles. While leadership roles have traditionally been male-dominated, there is a growing recognition of the need for more women in leadership positions within the sector.
In summary, women's roles in the gems and precious metals industry have evolved from historical exclusion to more diverse participation across the value chain, with ongoing efforts to address gender disparities and empower women within the industry.
Webinar Series Title:
“Gender Dynamics in the Gems and Precious Metals Value Chain”
Each webinar can feature guest speakers, industry experts, government figures and successful women in the field to share their experiences and insights. The series aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of women in the precious metals and gems value chain across diverse countries, addressing challenges and showcasing success stories.
Suggested structure for a series of 6 - 12 webinars focusing on women in the value chain of precious metals and gems across 11 countries. This said, if we see the interest goes for also cross country but more sector specific analysis, we’ll evolve into this.
Topics / webinars that can be included:
Community impact and empowerment
Government and NGO initiatives
Market trends and opportunities
Overcoming gender stereotypes
Challenges and innovations
Creating a supportive industry culture
Role of education and mentorship
Strategies for fostering diversity