Partners and Resources

As Canada’s leading organization for women in mining, we envision an industry that fosters, promotes and empowers women.  We see a future where the possibilities, opportunities and dreams are the same for all, regardless of gender. Our mission is to Educate, Elevate and Empower all women in mining and affiliated industries. 

NWA NWT is affiliated with the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC). It exists to empower and support Indigenous women and their families throughout the Northwest Territories. Our guiding principle is that all Indigenous ancestry will be treated with dignity, respect and equality and benefits and services will be extended to all no matter where one lives and regardless of tribal heritage.

The Government of the Northwest Territories is working to ensure that NWT residents capture and retain as much benefit as possible from mining activities in the territory. For more than 25 years, the NWT’s diamond mines have been the main driver of the territory’s private sector economy. Beyond simply employment, these mines have become reliable partners to many new and growing Northern businesses. Thanks to GNWT-led Socio Economic Agreements, this includes a commitment to developing representative workforces.

Located 200 km south of the Arctic Circle in Lac de Gras, the Diavik Diamond Mine is a flagship operation of Rio Tinto. Since commencing production in 2003, Diavik has yielded over 140 million carats of premium white diamonds through both open-pit and underground mining methods. In 2021, Angela Bigg became Diavik's first female president, a significant step towards gender diversity. The mine is also renowned for its commitment to environmental stewardship, exemplified by its award-winning wind farm and Canada's largest northern solar project. With operations set to conclude by 2026, Diavik has integrated comprehensive closure plans to restore the site responsibly.

As Canada's inaugural diamond mine, Ekati has been a cornerstone of the nation's diamond industry since 1998. Now under the stewardship of Burgundy Diamond Mines, Ekati has produced over 100 million carats of ethically sourced diamonds. The mine supports female leadership, with figures like Gaeleen MacPherson, a founding member of Women in Mining NWT, having contributed to its success. Ekati's commitment to inclusivity ensures opportunities for women across all facets of its operations. Burgundy maintains strong partnerships with Indigenous communities ensuring sustainable development and mutual prosperity.

Situated on the tundra of the Northwest Territories, the Gahcho Kué Diamond Mine is a joint venture between De Beers Canada (51%) and Mountain Province Diamonds (49%). Since its official opening in 2016, the mine has been a significant contributor to Canada's diamond output. Gahcho Kué prioritizes safety, environmental standards, and community engagement in its operations while De Beers Canada's broader commitment to diversity supports women in mining roles.

Nestled within traditional Dene territory, the Prairie Creek Project is NorZinc's flagship initiative in the Northwest Territories. The project boasts a substantial mineral resource and based on a 2021 Preliminary Economic Assessment, is projected to operate for 20 years, processing 2,400 tonnes per day and producing an average of 261 million pounds of payable zinc equivalent annually. NorZinc is committed to responsible development, ensuring environmental stewardship and community collaboration including support for greater gender diversity in its operations.