Jutta Kikeson, a metallurgist employed at ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Yekepa iron ore concentrator plant in Nimba County, has successfully completed the International Women in Resources Mentoring Programme, a six-month global initiative aimed at empowering women in the mining sector. Kikeson was the sole participant from Liberia and among only three selected from ArcelorMittal’s global operations to join the programme.
The mentorship involved a diverse group of women from more than 40 countries and was organised by International Women in Mining, with Metisphere as a delivery partner. The programme culminated in a final week of leadership workshops, networking events, and a closing ceremony held in London between 17 and 23 October 2026, where Kikeson participated to mark the conclusion of her mentorship.
Kikeson’s selection reflects both her technical expertise and leadership potential. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering from the University of Liberia in 2019 and joined ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Young Professional Program in June 2022. Her ongoing career with ArcelorMittal has been publicly acknowledged by the company on social media platforms, highlighting her achievement and her role as a rising female professional in a male-dominated industry.
Speaking about her experience, Kikeson said, “Being selected for the program is an honor and a source of deep gratitude. 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.” She added that the mentorship taught her the importance of taking ownership of her professional growth. “This experience enables me to approach daily tasks with greater confidence and deeper insight,” Kikeson explained.
Beyond personal growth, Kikeson called on young Liberian women to pursue education and careers in technical fields free from gender stereotypes: “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’s success fits into broader efforts by mining companies worldwide, including ArcelorMittal, to foster women’s participation and leadership in resource industries traditionally dominated by men. While her exact status as the first Liberian female metallurgist at the Yekepa concentrator plant remains unverified, her achievement stands as a significant milestone for women in Liberia’s mining sector.
The continued reporting on Kikeson’s journey by outlets such as AllAfrica and The New Dawn Liberia marks a positive narrative for women’s advancement in technical and industrial careers within West Africa. ArcelorMittal Liberia’s support of such initiatives reflects the growing recognition that gender diversity strengthens the mining industry’s future.
CapeFlats.co.za will continue to follow developments in the representation and empowerment of women in mining across Africa and report on further progress by Liberian professionals like Jutta Kikeson.