About YMP

YMP is a global network of mining professionals dedicated to advancing the mining industry's global leadership. With chapters in Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, London, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Peru, and Arizona, YMP empowers members by offering skills, support, and industry insights to drive their careers, build essential networks, and uncover mining-related investment opportunities. Through scholarships, networking, social events, and high-profile guest speaker series, YMP supports these goals.

Each chapter hosts a range of city-specific events, including the Distinguished Speakers series, featuring industry top icons, such as Peter Munk, Pierre Lassonde, Sir Mick Davis, Mark Cutifani, Ian Telfer, Eira Thomas, Rob McEwen, Don Lindsay, Ross Beaty, and more.

 

YMP appreciates the generous sponsors and supporters of the YMP Awards:

 
 
 

The Peter Munk Award and the Eira Thomas Award

The Awards are named after two iconic entrepreneurs in the mining industry, Peter Munk and Eira Thomas.

The Peter Munk Award (male) pays tribute to the visionary founder of Barrick Gold, while the Eira Thomas Award (female) recognizes the influential mining executive known for her leadership in growing diamond miner Aber Resources.

 
Peter Munk

  • Peter Munk was a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of Barrick Gold, the world's largest gold mining company. Born in 1927, Munk revolutionized the mining industry with his focus on disciplined growth, innovation, and responsible mining. His legacy extends beyond mining, with significant contributions to philanthropy, education, and business leadership. Through his work, he inspired generations of mining professionals and set the foundation for modern gold mining.

Eira Thomas

  • Eira Thomas is a renowned geologist and mining executive with a track record of groundbreaking discoveries in the diamond industry. As a co-founder of Lucara Diamond Corp. and former CEO of Stornoway Diamonds, she played a key role in the discovery of the Diavik Diamond Mine, one of Canada’s most significant diamond deposits. With decades of leadership in exploration and mining, Thomas continues to drive innovation and sustainability in the industry, inspiring the next generation of mining professionals.