#035 Not Sweetheart. Not Girly. Just Qualified.
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In this episode, WiMSA Board Chair, Noleen Pauls is joined by Megan Jarvis, partner at Webber Wentzel, and Dr Jeannette McGill, mining executive and geoscientist, for a candid conversation about the realities of being a woman in mining and professional services.
They reflect on a time when women were barred from working underground, share defining career moments that demanded grit and resilience, and explore how unconscious bias still shapes workplace dynamics today. The discussion moves beyond struggle to focus on leadership, emotional intelligence, mentorship, and the power of women supporting women.
From “pull-her-down syndrome” to the importance of networks like WIMSA, this episode celebrates progress while asking the hard questions about inclusion, equality, and how industries truly change.
This is a conversation about showing up, being heard, and being recognised for one thing only: competence.
They reflect on a time when women were barred from working underground, share defining career moments that demanded grit and resilience, and explore how unconscious bias still shapes workplace dynamics today. The discussion moves beyond struggle to focus on leadership, emotional intelligence, mentorship, and the power of women supporting women.
From “pull-her-down syndrome” to the importance of networks like WIMSA, this episode celebrates progress while asking the hard questions about inclusion, equality, and how industries truly change.
This is a conversation about showing up, being heard, and being recognised for one thing only: competence.
Chapters
- 00:01 Introduction and professional backgrounds
- 01:42 Dr McGill's mining industry background and career path
- 02:40 Historical context: legal barriers for women in South African mining
- 05:17 Remarkable progress in women's participation
- 05:35 Challenges in law and client interactions
- 08:04 Ongoing challenges: working twice as hard
- 10:23 Women's strengths: EQ, resilience, and compassion
- 11:35 Unconscious gender role assumptions
- 14:05 The importance of mentorship and role models
- 16:57 Women supporting women: addressing the
- 18:49 Challenges in modern mentorship
- 22:15 Industry evolution and future vision
- 25:07 Personal defining moments and resilience
- 29:24 Conclusion and continuing contributions
