The Challenge A European mining company operating in a conflict-sensitive region of South America aimed to deliver social value through community initiatives. However, efforts to engage women in local programmes faced mistrust and cultural barriers, risking the credibility and success of the initiative.

Our Approach ProcureStrategic Insight reframed the engagement strategy to prioritise informal, culturally sensitive dialogue. By listening closely to community perspectives, the initiative was redesigned around women’s economic empowerment. The company supported the creation of a women’s group, providing business education and access to new markets, while ensuring the programme was aligned with local priorities.

The Impact Over 50 women joined the initiative, gaining tools to strengthen their livelihoods and independence. Trust between the company and the community improved significantly, enabling more constructive dialogue for future projects. The initiative became a recognised example of how extractive industries can deliver meaningful social value when grounded in community voice.