KCM Hosts Workshop to Empower Women in Mining
Konkola Copper Mines Plc has concluded a two-day Women in Mining Mentorship Workshop at Protea Hotel, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening gender diversity and leadership in the mining sector.
The event was officially opened by Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Mewett, who praised the initiative as a vital step towards broadening opportunities for women across the industry.
Mr Mewett highlighted that KCM has established a clear framework to guide the Women in Mining programme, outlining measurable targets and long-term objectives both within the company and across the wider sector.
He acknowledged the historical male dominance in mining and its influence on workplace culture, noting that meaningful change requires creating pathways for women to thrive in all roles, including executive, managerial, and technical positions.
He encouraged the participants to seize the opportunity, emphasising that visibility and representation are key to building confidence. “If they can see it, they can believe it,” he said, adding that consistent support and skills development remain essential for progress.
The workshop was facilitated by Zelepi Kaemba, Founder and Principal Training and Development Consultant at the Talent Capital Institute (TCI), who brings over 15 years of experience in professional development.
Her sessions focused on the structure and stages of effective mentorship, goal setting, and the use of practical tools to support personal and career growth.
Ms Kaemba also underscored the importance of constructive feedback in mentorship, demonstrating various feedback techniques and their role in strengthening communication. She further explored the principles of long-term mentorship, including trust, commitment, and healthy closure.
One of the standout moments of the programme was a role-play activity showcasing resilience and effective communication in mentor–mentee relationships, especially in challenging situations. The exercise illustrated the value of adaptability and emotional intelligence in professional interactions.
The workshop concluded with participants receiving certificates of completion, marking another milestone in KCM’s efforts to empower women and cultivate future leaders in the mining industry.
