MONROVIA, Liberia, November 12, 2026 – A young Liberian metallurgist employed by ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), Jutta Kikeson, has successfully completed the International Women in Resources Mentoring Programme (IWRMP), becoming the only Liberian selected for the six-month global professional development initiative.
Kikeson was also among just three employees selected from ArcelorMittal’s global operations to participate in the program, which brings together women from more than 40 countries to strengthen leadership skills, promote career advancement, and encourage gender inclusion in the mining and resources sectors.
The initiative is organized annually by International Women in Mining (IWiM), in collaboration with its project delivery partner, Metisphere.
The six-month program featured one-on-one mentoring sessions, leadership training, virtual workshops, and international networking opportunities designed to equip women with the skills and confidence needed to advance in traditionally male-dominated industries.
Although Kikeson participated virtually from Liberia throughout most of the program, she traveled to London on October 17, 2026, for its concluding activities, including leadership workshops, networking engagements, and closing ceremonies held on October 22 and 23.
Reflecting on the experience, Kikeson described her selection as a significant professional achievement and an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of Liberian women in the mining industry.
“This achievement holds special meaning for me as I am the only participant from Liberia and one of just three individuals chosen from across ArcelorMittal. Beyond being a personal milestone, it is an opportunity to highlight the skills, potential, and capabilities of Liberian women in the mining sector,” she said.
Kikeson credited the mentorship program with strengthening her leadership confidence, communication skills, professional relationships, and ability to approach technical challenges strategically.
“Through this program, I have gained valuable knowledge, built confidence, and learned lessons that will continue to guide me throughout my career,” she stated.
Currently assigned to AML’s iron ore concentrator plant in Yekepa, Nimba County, Kikeson said she intends to apply the knowledge acquired to improve her daily technical and operational responsibilities.
“As a metallurgist, I am now better equipped to tackle technical challenges strategically,” she noted.
She encouraged young Liberian women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), stressing that gender stereotypes should not discourage them from entering the mining industry.
“I encourage young Liberian women to believe in their abilities, invest in their education, and pursue their ambitions without being held back by gender stereotypes,” Kikeson urged.
Looking ahead, she expressed her ambition to advance into leadership, strengthen her metallurgical expertise, and mentor emerging Liberian professionals.
“My goal is to continue enhancing my metallurgical knowledge and problem-solving skills while growing into a leadership role where I can drive continuous improvement, mentor emerging professionals, and nurture future Liberian talent in the mining sector,” she said.
ArcelorMittal, a gold sponsor of the international mentoring initiative, said its participation reflects its commitment to employee development, technical excellence, and greater opportunities for women across its mining operations.
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