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Meet diversity champion Nevinia

Congratulations to Thiess’ Nevinia Davenport, Senior Advisor, Diversity, Inclusion and Community, for being selected as a finalist in the 2020 Women in Resources Awards (WIRA).


 
The annual awards organised by the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME) recognises individuals and organisations who promote the power of diversity in the WA resources sector.

Nevinia has helped create meaningful and lasting change at Thiess through her influence and advocacy for diversity which she learnt from a young age growing up in the Pilbara region. 
“My parents introduced me to the industry, and I grew up watching my mum working in traditionally male-orientated roles.”

“What I learnt from her example, is that if you work hard and with integrity, you earn respect and find your place.”

Since joining Thiess in 2017, Nevinia has built significant awareness of diversity and inclusion within the workplace while positioning Thiess as a leader within the WA resources sector. 

She is an advocate for creating and promoting opportunities for women to enter the resources industry. She has been involved in initiatives, including:

- Working with the Roebourne District High School to give high school students, predominantly young women, exposure to mining. The students were involved in activities such as building engine models, and in return, they left a piece of themselves and their culture through their art. 


- She has coordinated opportunities for young women and their teachers at local schools to attend the CMEWA Inspiring Girls Career seminars to hear about career opportunities in the mining industry. 


- Through her networking activities with Indigenous organisations and genuine commitment to reconciliation she has contributed to an increase in the number of indigenous applicants for Thiess roles.

“Nothing brings me more joy than seeing women and other under-represented groups access opportunities such as employment, development, progression and recognition.”

“As part of my community engagement role, I love working in partnership with Indigenous businesses and people to grow their capabilities and capacity, ultimately being a part of them giving back to their communities and people.”


Everyone matters always
She is motivated to bridge the gap and create an industry that ensures everyone matters always - regardless of their gender, religious beliefs, sexuality or ethnicity – to provide an environment where everyone can work together harmoniously.

While female participation in the mining sector has improved, more work needs to be done.

Her goal is to square the ledger on gender equality, so the focus is on supporting everyone to reach their full potential.
 
Show your support
You can show your support for Nevinia by voting for her in the People’s Choice Award, here.
 
Voting closes at 5.00 pm on Wednesday, 4 March 2020.
 
Congratulations Nevinia!