The mining industry has traditionally been viewed as a male-dominated field, characterized by physical challenges and demanding work environments. However, Fathiya Selviyana, a graduate of Universitas Sriwijaya, who began her career at PT DAHANA in 2018, has demonstrated that women can excel in this sector. Her journey exemplifies that inclusivity in the mining industry is not only achievable but also essential.

Ms Selviana identifies social stigma as the primary challenge for women in the mining sector. Many people believe that mining is unsuitable for women, particularly due to the heavy workload and the hassle of balancing personal and professional life. Nevertheless, she has confronted these challenges with mental resilience and strong discipline, demonstrating that women can make significant contributions in this field.

Support from her company has also been crucial to Ms Selviyana’s success. PT DAHANA offers a career development program designed to enhance women’s technical and leadership skills. This training covers essential areas such as occupational safety and project management, enabling women to pursue strategic roles within the company. This development indicates that organizations have begun to recognize the importance of women’s contributions to the mining industry.

Her advancement to the position of Operations Superintendent at Petrosea BMB JsP DTU-1 in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, is a testament to the potential for women’s representation in leadership roles. She is a prime example of how women can not only thrive in the field but also lead with competence and effectiveness in a male-dominated industry.

However, social challenges persist beyond the workplace. The stigma surrounding women working in the mining sector remains a significant barrier. Ms Selviyana combats this by cultivating mental resilience and maintaining her focus on work. She has learned to navigate social obstacles positively, demonstrating that strong performance is an effective way to challenge stereotypes.

“Building resilience is crucial. Many women in male-dominated fields develop strong resilience. They learn to stay concentrated on their work and tackle social barriers in a constructive way. This resilience often stems from personal experiences or lessons learned through their challenges,” Ms Selviyana explains.

Leadership and interpersonal skills are also integral to Ms Selviyana’s approach to overcoming stigma. By fostering good relationships with her colleagues and showcasing her expertise in various areas, she proves that women can be reliable leaders. The trust she earns from her coworkers reflects the success of this strategy.

Ms Selviyana envisions a future where women in the mining sector enjoy greater equality. She hopes to see an increase in opportunities for women’s development, including ongoing training and mentorship programs. With supportive company policies, she believes that women will become more confident in pursuing careers in mining.

“As women, we aspire to witness more significant changes in gender equality, career opportunities, company policies, and social support. This aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita and the Ministry of SOEs, particularly regarding gender equality and empowering women’s roles,” Ms Selviyana concluded.