• By Renthia Kaimbi

The Women in Mining Association of Namibia (WiMAN) has unveiled its flagship mentorship and coaching programme, designed to accelerate the advancement of women into leadership roles across the country's mining industry. 
The programme establishes a dedicated platform to connect early-career women with experienced mentors and coaches to build essential skills, networks and leadership pathways. It will utilise the Consolidated Copper Corp’s (CCC) online platform during its initial three years.

  
According to WiMAN, the programme stresses personalized mentoring, leadership coaching, peer network development, and shared learning opportunities.

 
Its’ core aim is to help women build lasting careers, grow confidence and unlock real opportunities within the sector.
WiMAN added that the programme aligns with the goals of the International Day for Women in Mining, which raises awareness, encourage inclusion and advocates for change towards a more diverse and sustainable mining sector. 
The day was observed on 15 June, a day highlighting the contributions, challenges and achievements of women in the industry.
WiMAN president Zenzi Awases, indicated that: “[The] programme is intentionally designed to include every woman involved in the mining sector.

 
“From seasoned professionals and small-scale miners to gemstone traders, mining-related entrepreneurs and aspiring youth. By pairing mentorship with leadership coaching and introducing STEM clubs in schools, we are not just creating opportunities, we are building a pipeline of empowered women who will shape the future of mining in Namibia and beyond.”

Yolande Stegmann, interim chief operating officer at CCC highlighted the programme's transformative potential.  “I am excited to meet the incredible women who will be part of this programme. It is not just about offering them skills.  It is about giving them the chance to build real networks, receive hands-on guidance and feel like they truly belong in an industry where they have been overlooked for too long.”