Behind every part of our refinery is a team whose skills, expertise and commitment keep Sun Metals operating safely and efficiently every day. Among them are many incredible women building rewarding careers and making a valuable contribution across our business.

This International Women's Day, we're proud to celebrate the women of Sun Metals and the important role they play in helping shape our success. While the mining and metals industry has traditionally been male-dominated, the industry continues to evolve, with more women pursuing careers across operations, engineering, maintenance, laboratory services, safety and leadership.

Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing the stories of some of the talented women working across our site. They will talk about their career journeys, what inspired them to join the industry, what they enjoy most about their roles, and the advice they would give to other women considering a career in mining.

Their stories showcase the diverse pathways available at Sun Metals and highlight the knowledge, passion and dedication that help drive our business forward every day.

Meet Israa Al-Essawy

"Mining can be challenging, but it offers incredible opportunities. Focus on building your knowledge and work hard. Stay confident in your abilities."

As a Senior Laboratory Technician, Israa Al-Essawy plays an important role in ensuring laboratory data supports the safe and efficient operation of the refinery. With a background in Chemical Engineering, she enjoys applying her technical knowledge to real-world industrial challenges, analysing samples and providing accurate data that helps guide operational decisions.

For Israa, one of the most rewarding parts of her role is solving problems. She describes her work as "detective work"—investigating issues, identifying opportunities for improvement and helping the refinery operate more effectively.

"Our laboratory results don't just provide data," she says. "They help guide decisions that influence how the refinery operates."

Recently promoted to Senior Laboratory Technician after six years at Sun Metals, Israa now helps guide laboratory operations, provides technical advice on how laboratory results influence the refining process, and ensures the laboratory continues to meet strict safety and compliance standards.

Outside of work, Israa is a proud mother of three daughters and hopes to inspire them by showing what can be achieved through education, determination and hard work.

Guided by a mindset of hard work, responsibility and maintaining a positive attitude, she believes these qualities are the foundation for success both professionally and personally.

Thank you, Israa, for sharing your story. Your passion for learning, commitment to excellence and willingness to inspire the next generation make you a valued member of the Sun Metals team.