Building Momentum for Change in 2025

The first month of 2025 has already brought with it a surge of energy, resilience, and action from women around the globe, and I've felt it through conversations and moments with women in mining. At a time when global movements for inclusion are facing setbacks, women in this sector are proving that their voices, leadership, and influence are more essential than ever to shaping the future.

Recent global developments have been unsettling. The U.S. election has signalled a massive rollback of progress on women’s rights on many fronts, with one being merit-based hiring practices replacing intentional inclusion strategies—undermining years of work to address systemic inequalities. High-profile class action lawsuits have served as a reminder of the need to hold industries accountable for creating safer, more inclusive workplaces and that men and women are tired of being silent.

Yet, as someone recently told me, sometimes it takes an earthquake to shake us out of complacency. This shake-up has sparked a renewed commitment to change across industries—and mining is no exception.

The Rise of Women’s Leadership in Mining

In the face of these challenges, women are stepping up with determination. Conversations about diversity in leadership, team performance, and decision-making have reached new heights. Study after study continues to highlight the tangible benefits of diverse teams, and women in mining are leading the charge to embed these principles into corporate culture and boardrooms.

Moreover, women are not only asking for a seat at the table—they are building their own tables. Communities of women are forming at an incredible pace, creating networks that foster connection, mentorship, and collective impact. This is evident in our own growth at The Femina Collective in 2025 as we have watched our broader community grow by over 150% in the last 12 months. We are one of many movements supporting women to take up space and feel empowered to own their talent and presence. These movements are driving real change, amplifying women’s voices and ensuring they are not just heard, but acted upon.

Investing in the Future of Mining

Recently I spoke at AME Roundup to share my thoughts on the role women play in mining investment. I was delighted and validated to see the exciting shifts happening right now is the rise of non-brokered retail investor deals. This development is making it easier for women to enter the mining investment space, where historically, men have dominated decision-making roles. The numbers didn't lie - there was a massive surge in individuals putting their hard earned dollars back into mining, however it was unclear what the demographic breakdown was for those deals - though I'm sure we could all take a guess. For mining to thrive and meet the demands of the energy transition, women must have equal access to investment opportunities and decision-making power.

Women investing in mining are not only diversifying financial backing but also contributing to a more holistic approach to risk management and sustainability. As the mining industry evolves to meet critical mineral needs, we must ensure that women are positioned as investors, stakeholders, and decision-makers to drive innovation and long-term success.

A Moment of Momentum

The energy in the mining sector right now is palpable. Women are showing up with strength, conviction, and unity, proving that their power is not just individual but collective. Through community building, intentional advocacy, and bold leadership, women are making waves that will continue to ripple throughout the year—and far beyond.

This is a pivotal time for the industry, and for women’s role in it. By amplifying our voices, investing in the future, and continuing to show up for one another, we can create the change we know is possible. We aren't simply a DEI measure, we are 50% of the population, our opportunities should be equal.

As we move further into 2025, let’s harness this momentum. Let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made, acknowledge the work still to be done, and continue to challenge the status quo.

Here’s to the incredible women of mining—leading the way and shaping the future.

Dear Board of Directors

The recent class action suit has sent shockwaves through the mining industry. For some, it has reopened old wounds; for others, it has triggered past traumas or revealed the painful truth of what’s happening around us. This suit implicates two massive companies, but let’s not deceive ourselves—it isn’t just them. The outpouring of stories I’ve seen following last week’s post proves that this problem is pervasive. Yet, one sentiment kept coming up: the need for "difficult conversations."

That phrase didn’t sit well with me. What’s actually difficult in this situation is the decision to come forward—risking careers, livelihoods, and reputations. What’s difficult is enduring the aftermath: the whispers, the reputation-smearing, and the shaming. It’s not difficult—or at least it shouldn’t be—to confront perpetrators and say, "Enough is enough." It shouldn’t be difficult to address bullying, harassment, and assault, or to hold those responsible to account.

If the human cost isn’t enough to drive action, then consider the business case: the countless dollars spent on legal fees, settlements, HR investigations, and crisis management. Believing women, acting decisively, and fostering a culture of respect is simply good business. And yet, when perpetrators are removed, they often walk away with lucrative payouts and into their next leadership roles, with no accountability or consequence.

Boards hold immense power. I’ve been told before that boards "can only influence" but aren’t responsible for demanding change. I call that out as a lie. Your responsibility is to protect the company—and that means protecting its people, not just its profits. It means holding leadership accountable and refusing to turn a blind eye to systemic issues for the sake of optics or the bottom line.

So, I ask you: what will you do now? How will you use your influence, your voice, and your power to make radical, lasting change in this industry? Because this moment demands decisive action.

And to my fellow millennials rising into leadership roles: the runway ahead of us is long, and we are the ones steering this ship. We must do better—better for ourselves, for those who came before us, and for those who will come after. This is on us. Let’s not waste the opportunity to build a future that prioritizes respect, inclusion, and accountability.

The time for change is now. What are we waiting for?

The Future Boardroom: A Feminist Perspective

We’ve hosted three incredible events in our Q4 of 2024 dinner series and attended the inaugural Women Get On Board Inc. (WGOB) Vancouver Summit, where connecting with many talented women from diverse sectors brought incredible energy and insight. Amid the discussions, one theme rose repeatedly: governance and the structure of our boardrooms.

As we consider the future, the question lingers—do women fit into the current vision, or are we here to shape it?

For me, the focus has always been on the mining industry and increasing women's participation across all levels—from investment and ownership to leadership roles. The progress of women in boardrooms, especially in mining, has grown in recent years, but it’s clear that there’s still much to be done. The latest ESG Mining Company Index sheds light on the numbers, revealing that women still occupy fewer than a quarter of board seats in major mining companies. These statistics aren't just numbers; they’re indicators of a broader conversation about governance and who gets a seat at the table.

As Dr. Deborah Rosati FCPA, FCA, ICD.D, GCB.D, CCB.D often reminds us: “One woman is token, two is a voice, three is a movement.” Yet, too often, a small handful of highly qualified women are tapped to hold multiple board seats, creating visibility but at a personal and professional toll. This trend, while understandable in some respects, limits opportunities for new voices and fresh perspectives. How do we balance experience with expansion? How do we ensure that these influential women leverage their positions to open doors for others, diversifying boardrooms with intention rather than obligation?

Thinking about these questions, I believe a feminist lens in governance—a perspective that prioritizes inclusion, equity, and the courage to see value in the unexpected - is necessary. Bringing diversity to the table should go beyond a checklist and instead be part of a vision that reflects a company’s commitment to resilience and innovation. The ESG Mining Company Index emphasizes that organizations with greater gender diversity show stronger ESG performance, aligning with an increasingly purpose-driven investment landscape. We know this because we have been saying it for decades. For mining, an industry crucial to the energy transition, this connection between diverse governance and long-term sustainability is paramount.

Board roles should be more than the next step in an executive’s career; they should be purposeful and strategic, bringing together a mix of individuals to help companies thrive in evolving environments. This includes gender diversity, age diversity, race, and abilities diversity—factors that, combined, position a board to face both today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.

As we continue this conversation, my challenge to my peers and industry leaders is this: let’s not just imagine a future boardroom with greater diversity. Let’s actively build it by encouraging mentorship, championing new leaders, and embracing a governance style that’s not afraid to think differently. The future of mining and many other industries depends on it. Together, let’s make this a movement—one seat, one voice, one action at a time.

Reflecting on a Year Away: A Journey Toward Balance and Fulfillment

Just over a year ago, I made the difficult decision to step away from the financial security and prestige of an executive role in mining. I left behind the Bay Street office with its stunning lake views, the artwork adorning the walls, and the closet full of blazers and high heels. I stepped away from a brilliant team with big visions and an incredible assistant who kept my life seamlessly organized. It was a challenging and painful decision, in some ways a real blow to my ego, but change was necessary.

Over the past year, I've embarked on a journey of detoxing from corporate burn-out culture, leading to a life that feels complete and more balanced than ever.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

The Panic of Not Being Burnt Out Is Real: My body and mind were so accustomed to operating at full capacity that the absence of constant stress left me disoriented. It took months for my nervous system to settle and for me to feel normal again. As someone who prides myself on being 'high capacity', I didn't realize the level of stress I was carrying and living every day until it was gone.

The Power of Saying No: I learned the importance of protecting my time and energy. Saying no to things that did not align with my personal or professional goals helped me preserve time for family and friends and reduce unnecessary travel. It also gave my brain the ability to dream, create, and rest.

Financial Independence: It took time to detach my sense of worth from my job title and salary. I discovered that money can indeed be made outside of the corporate sphere and that my value is not tied to a position, or people's perception of what role I held.

Working Smarter: I've embraced working with projects and groups that resonate with my core values. I've learned that it's okay to walk away from situations and opportunities that feel misaligned or unfulfilling. I have one life to live, and I am committed to living it to the fullest.

This journey has led me to a place of daily joy and peace, where gratitude replaces panic. I am able to contribute to the mining industry, leveraging my influence in ways that align with my newfound values, and support women who are in need of rest and community.

While there are aspects of corporate life I miss, such as leading teams and setting strategies, I am not willing to compromise what I’ve gained this past year to return to just any role. My life now includes spending more time than ever with my children and husband, growing Femina Collective, starting a private investment club, and supporting initiatives like IRMA. These aren't passive activities; they are active choices that bring immense value to my life.

It’s hard to hear so many women describe their overwhelming busyness, placing their roles above their health, families, and friends. I'm here to tell you—it doesn't have to be that way. Life can be rich and fulfilling on all fronts, and my last year is a testament to that possibility. Here’s to more women finding their path to balance and fulfillment in whatever role and capacity gives the most joy and fulfillment.

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Carmen Turner and I talked about this transition and how Carmen worked through her own shift from corporate star to truly living her values and purpose. Check out the episode to continue the conversation.

The Pendulum Isn’t Swinging: Why We Still Need Women’s Voices in Mining

If that’s what we’re aiming for, we’ve missed the entire point of inclusion and diversity. Yet, this is often the argument I hear when I support all-women panels or advocate for higher rates of female participation in events.

“I don’t agree with all-women panels because it excludes men.”

I hear this statement far too often, and it simply doesn’t hold up. Here's why: all-male panels are still normalized, often excused with “we couldn’t find any women,” and rarely face the same scrutiny. We all agree that the best panels—whether at events, conferences, or keynotes—are diverse in gender, race, ethnicity, and expertise. But achieving that ideal requires intentional effort.

Why All-Women Panels Matter

I fully support all-women panels and events in mining because they are necessary. They shine a spotlight on women’s voices in an industry where we’re still underrepresented. Pulling together an all-female panel isn’t easy, particularly for technical and financial topics where women are fewer than in functions like Corporate, ESG, or HR. When I see an all-women panel discussing complex, technical issues rather than being relegated to topics like wellness or self-help, it’s both refreshing and affirming.

And it’s proof that the pendulum isn’t swinging in favor of women—especially not in mining.

Intentional Representation Matters

Whenever I organize a panel or event, I intentionally seek out women to fill the spots. But even this intentionality has its challenges. My own network has limitations, and I need to ensure that the women I’m including aren’t just women who look like me. Without diverse representation—across race, ethnicity, and lived experience—I haven’t truly done the work.

This intentional approach isn’t just about meeting a quota; it’s about recognizing and celebrating the incredible talent in this industry. I have the privilege of speaking with some of the smartest, most creative women in mining every day. It’s a constant reminder of why inclusion must be more than a buzzword—it must be actionable.

The Pendulum Isn’t Swinging Yet

We can confidently say the pendulum hasn’t swung in favour of women. Especially not for women of colour, Indigenous women, or others from underrepresented backgrounds. Until it becomes the norm to see women equally represented, we must keep doing the work. We need to carve out space—not just for women’s voices, but for diverse women’s voices—in every corner of this industry.

So, to those event organizers curating all-women panels: I see you, and I commend you. The work you’re doing is important. And for anyone questioning why these spaces exist, here’s your answer: they’re needed.

Let’s stop worrying about imaginary pendulums and focus on building real, meaningful representation in mining. Only then can we truly move toward an inclusive industry—one where diversity isn’t an exception but the rule.

In this episode, Beth and Carmen discuss the importance of building a supportive community during challenging times and share personal experiences about the benefits of surrounding yourself with people who believe in you and align with your goals. They emphasize being intentional about relationships, setting boundaries, and letting go of those who no longer serve you. Ultimately, they highlight the power of community in providing support, encouragement, and a strong sense of belonging.

Dear Women Coming Forward

Yesterday, I woke up to the articles being shared about your case. I opened the first one, and after reading just the opening line, I was overcome with sickness and rage. The words "urinated on and defecated in front of" are not only horrifying but should never exist in any context, let alone describe actions deemed acceptable anywhere—least of all in our industry.

You are women in mining. You are the ones who show up every day underground, driving trucks, analyzing data, making deals, supporting communities, and doing so much more. You are the women who have been shouting into the void, without protection, without support, while these heinous acts have been allowed to occur. The anger I feel toward this industry—and toward the individuals who overlook or excuse such behavior for the sake of profit—is immeasurable. To those who have said, "It’s not that bad," or have allowed you to be bullied, mistreated, assaulted, and harassed: your complicity is damning.

Where is the accountability? Where are the people being removed from their roles, their companies, and escorted not with a generous payout but to face real consequences—consequences that include the loss of opportunity and, when warranted, a jail cell? Where is the industry’s action to protect women, to eradicate these predators, and to create workplaces where dignity is non-negotiable?

To the brave women coming forward: you are extraordinary. Your courage surpasses words, and you are doing what so many of us wish we could do but feel unable to. You are carrying a torch for all of us who remain silent, afraid, or unable to speak out in an industry that often values power over justice. Your actions are a light in the darkness, and we know the road ahead will be steep. You will be called liars, exaggerators, troublemakers—anything to deflect blame and maintain the status quo.

But please, do not give up. Your bravery is a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless others. We see you. We believe you. And though many of us cannot stand beside you publicly, we are with you in spirit, in solidarity, and in shared outrage. Thank you for your courage, for your resilience, and for standing up against a system that desperately needs to change.

To the men who now have read these articles, who have seen the details of these incidents, and who choose to speak out, stand up, and say "no" to this behavior: thank you. We need you so desperately right now. Women have been saying for years that this is happening, and we are ignored. We need men to stand up to their colleagues and stand up for their female peers. Your voice is amplified in ways ours cannot yet be. Your power is tenfold compared to ours in this space. Please use it to help us turn this moment into a catalyst for radical change.

To the men reading these articles and thinking it’s all garbage—that women are asking for too much, exaggerating, or making this all up: what is wrong with you? How can you witness this pain, this injustice, and still deny its reality? Your indifference and dismissiveness perpetuate harm, and it is indefensible.

My heart physically aches for every woman involved in this case and for every woman who carries her own story but cannot speak out. We saw this with the Every Day Respect report. We knew it was happening. We hoped for change, and yet here we are. Two years have passed since that report—two years that should have been enough to protect people, to create real change, and to eliminate this pain. Two years is plenty of time to act, yet we are still enduring these horrors.

We need safety. We need inclusion. We need community. We need real consequences and accountability for those who commit these acts. We need to stop silencing and protecting those in power. We need action—action that goes beyond the words spoken on stages or the glossy photos of women in PPE. We need to confront these demons head-on and admit what is truly happening.

We can do it. We must do it. We are the only ones who can do it.

With unyielding determination and solidarity,

Beth

Reflection on Personal Leadership Journey

 I've been asked a few times recently about my leadership style or how I define myself as a leader. While I have some go-to answers—I trust my teams completely, I avoid micromanagement (maybe even a bit too much), and I love building collaborative teams—being asked to really explore the "why" behind my leadership has led to some deeper reflection. - Beth Borody

Here’s what I’ve realized:

I’m deeply committed to building my team’s capacity and confidence. I’ve thrived under leaders who believe in me, trust me to make decisions, and support me even when I stumble. That’s exactly the type of leader I strive to be. I recognize that my team’s success—or lack thereof—reflects on me as a leader. My goal is to cultivate an environment where people feel confident, capable, and proud of what we’re accomplishing together. I love celebrating their wins and amplifying their successes because when they shine, we all succeed.

I lead from my values. This is perhaps the most challenging aspect of my leadership, and it’s something I continually work on. Leading from values means accepting that not everyone will like or agree with my approach. It requires being okay with not always being the most popular person in the room. However, holding firm to my values has attracted the right people and opportunities into my life. My values provide a compass in difficult situations and help align the team’s expectations and visions, even when the road ahead isn’t clear.

Reflecting on these aspects of leadership has reminded me why I care so deeply about the role. Leadership isn’t just about managing tasks—it’s about creating space for people to thrive, fostering genuine connections, and staying true to who I am. It’s a journey, one I’m grateful to be on.

Femina Collective has solidified that showing up as my authentic self has created a space for women to do the same.  As I show up for each member as a mentor or supporter, I can watch other women shed their masks in response to my authenticity and values.  As each mask comes off, more shoulders relax, and connections deepen.  Those early in their careers can see senior women own their leadership, and more senior women can learn what the new generation of women needs from their leaders.  The power of community is the opportunity to learn from each other and appreciate how the individuality of leadership shows up.

Empowering Women to Invest in Mining

As we look at the future of Canadian mining, there’s one aspect we haven’t paid enough attention to: women’s participation at the ownership level. While we've made strides in increasing women’s representation as employees in the mining industry, from engineers to executives, we have yet to focus on equipping women to take an active role as investors and owners in the sector. This is an area ripe for growth, and it’s time we change that narrative.

Over the next decade, women’s financial influence is expected to grow significantly. According to a recent study, Canadian women are set to control approximately 50% of the country’s wealth by 2030. Yet, despite this increasing financial power, women are still underrepresented in investment decision-making, especially in sectors like mining. As we work towards building a more inclusive and sustainable economy, we need to bridge this gap by providing greater education and resources for women to confidently invest in industries like mining, where the opportunities for growth are vast.

The mining industry in Canada is on the brink of significant expansion, driven by the demand for critical minerals essential for the energy transition. Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy is a key pillar of this growth, positioning the country as a leader in producing the resources needed for batteries, electric vehicles, and clean technologies. This strategic focus presents a unique opportunity for investors—including women—to enter the market at a time of profound transformation.

However, education is key. Historically, women have not had the same access to investment knowledge or networks, particularly in male-dominated industries like mining. We need to create pathways that empower women not just to work in these industries but to own a stake in them. Ownership brings influence, and with greater participation from women at the ownership level, we can ensure more diverse perspectives in decision-making that will drive innovation and responsible practices.

According to McKinsey’s 2024 report on women in the workforce, while women’s participation in leadership roles has seen some improvement, there is still a considerable gap at the top, particularly in industries like mining. This trend extends to ownership and investment as well. Encouragingly, however, more women are seeking investment opportunities, and with the right support, they could become key players in driving the future of mining.

Aligning women’s investment opportunities with Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy is not just about gender equity—it’s about smart investing. The demand for critical minerals will only grow in the coming years, and the mining sector, with its focus on sustainable and responsible practices, presents a sound investment opportunity. Women who invest now can position themselves as leaders in an industry poised for growth, while contributing to Canada’s broader economic and environmental goals.

Resources for Women Interested in Investing

For women looking to start or expand their investment portfolios in the mining sector, there are several resources available that provide education, networking, and support:

West Coast Angel Network : This network offers education courses specifically designed for women interested in angel investing. Their programs cover the basics of investment, how to evaluate opportunities, and strategies for building a diverse portfolio. Engaging with these courses can provide a solid foundation for those looking to invest in sectors like mining.

Female Invest : This platform offers a wealth of literature and courses aimed at empowering women to take control of their financial futures. With a focus on breaking down complex financial concepts, Female Invest provides valuable insights into various industries, including mining, and helps women make informed investment decisions.

The51 : A Canadian-based initiative, The51 is a financial feminist movement that focuses on increasing women’s access to capital and investment opportunities. Through their investment fund and community, The51 supports women entrepreneurs and investors, offering a powerful network for those interested in sectors like mining.

These resources are excellent starting points for women who want to learn more about investing, particularly in industries like mining, where their influence can drive positive change.

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It’s time to shift the conversation. Women have long been part of the mining industry’s workforce, but we need to expand that vision to include women as owners and investors. By providing the right education, resources, and opportunities, we can foster a new generation of women investors who will help shape the future of mining in Canada.