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Diversity & Inclusion Award

For exceptional contribution towards improving diversity and inclusion within the mining industry

Origins & Conditions

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Sponsored by the Environmental and Social Responsibility Society, the Diversity and Inclusion Medal recognizes exceptional contribution towards improving diversity and inclusion within the mining industry in Canada. It recognizes the efforts of an individual who through his/her efforts has helped make the mining industry a more diverse and inclusive industry for all. In order to encourage new entrants to this arena, and thereby expand the number of contributors to diversity and inclusion, preference shall be given to those candidates who have not yet been recognized or received awards related to this area, especially within CIM.

For clarity, within the concept of this award, the following definition of diversity and inclusion is used:

Diversity is any dimension that can be used to differentiate groups and people from one another including ethnicity, gender, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, education and religion.

Inclusion puts the concept and practice of diversity into action by creating an environment of involvement, respect, connection and support. Inclusion allows the richness of ideas, backgrounds and perspective to be harnessed to create value.

The Diversity & Inclusion Award criteria and other information:

  1. The Diversity and Inclusion Award is awarded for exceptional contribution towards improving diversity and inclusion within the mining industry, i.e. recognition of either a very special initiative and or achievement or consistent achievements over an extended period (at least 3 years),
  2. The Award shall be presented annually and preference shall be given to an individual who have not yet been recognized, received awards or related to this area, especially within CIM.
  3. Each nomination is to be accompanied by a statement (no more than 500 words) clearly outlining the achievements and qualifications of the nominee.
  4. Adjudication of the award shall be made by the Awards Committee of the Environmental and Social Responsibility Society. This committee will consist of up to (7) Members:
    (a) Award champion – the Society Chair and/or designated ESRS member representative.  This person will manage receipt and review of nominations, help identify judges, etc.
    (b) Chair or designated representative of the CIM diversity and inclusion committee (DAIC).
    (c) Past recipient of the award
    (d) A Canadian Aboriginal Minerals Association (CAMA)/ESRS joint member
    (e) A Women in Mining (WIM)/ESRS joint member
    (f) CIM student ESRS member
  5. The Committee shall designate a recipient among the nominees for presentation to CIM Council, no later than the last Council meeting held prior to the annual CIM Convention.
  6. The Award shall be presented at the CIM Convention.
  7. All nominations properly presented shall remain in good standing for a period of three (3) years unless formally withdrawn over the signatures of a majority of members responsible for the nomination.
  8. ESRS members are preferred.

Winners

2021

Debra Shewfelt

As senior geologist, co-president and board member of RESPEC Consulting Inc., Debra Shewfelt draws on nearly two decades of career experience to drive the growth of a diverse team and inspire girls and young women to consider non-traditional STEM careers in mining and minerals. Her leadership at the workplace and through volunteer organizations exemplify her passion for creating equal opportunities, leading STEM educational outreach activities in communities, and advancing the inclusion of underrepresented groups such as women and Indigenous peoples. Shewfelt values mentorship as a volunteer effort, in projects such as MentorSTEP, an Indigenous female STEM mentorship program. She founded the "Girls In The Classroom—Unearthing Career Opportunities in Mining" K-12 educational outreach program (www.girlsintheclassroom.org). Her passion for environment and sustainability drives the success of a new group in the Canadian office that focuses on water, environment and alternative energy projects in communities.   

2020

David Pathe

David Pathe is the president and CEO of Sherritt International Corporation, a world leader in the mining and refining of nickel from lateritic ores with operations in Canada, Cuba and Madagascar. Pathe joined Sherritt in June 2007 as associate general Counsel and progressed through various senior roles. In 2012, he was appointed to president and CEO overseeing all of Sherritt’s operations. He has played an important role in enhancing Sherritt’s strategy to focus on strengthening its core business of being a low cost global nickel producer, balanced with its unique Cuban energy business and Cuban oil.

Pathe is committed to accelerating the advancement of women. He is a Catalyst Canada Advisory Board member and a supporter of the 30% Club campaign to promote greater gender balance on boards.

Pathe holds a B.A. from Queens University and his LL.B. from the University of British Columbia.