It is with deep sorrow that we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Rebecca Bweupe-Siwale. She joined WAAIME in 2018, was elected to the executive committee in November 2023 and began her tenure in February 2024. Her tragic passing on June 8 left us all in profound grief.

Bweupe-Siwale was a remarkable individual whose contributions to the mining industry were significant and far-reaching. As vice president and head of digital services at FLSmidth, she led with passion, driving innovation and inclusivity in her field. Her dedication to promoting women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and her efforts in advancing diversity and inclusion within the industry left an indelible mark. Rebecca’s adventurous spirit and her unwavering commitment to her family, faith and professional community were truly inspirational.

Her biography was a testament to her expertise and commitment. She began her career in the mining industry 24 years ago as a plant metallurgist and front-line supervisor. Bweupe-Siwale joined FLSmidth in 2012 as a senior process engineer and held various positions of increasing responsibility. Her extensive experience in leading teams and driving digitally enabled operational improvements was invaluable. She held a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Copperbelt University, an MBA from Cleveland State University, and executive education from Henley Business School. She was also a 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining awardee.

Bweupe-Siwale actively participated in various technical committees and networking events. She served as the Past Chair of the SME Inclusion & Diversity Committee and co-chaired the Women of SME Breakfast event, which engaged and empowered men and women in the industry.
In accordance with her daughters’ wishes, we chose to remember Bweupe-Siwale for the vibrant and impactful life she led. Her legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the values she championed. We will honor her memory by fostering a culture of kindness, compassion and inclusivity within our organization and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. May her memory be a blessing and her legacy live on through the positive changes she brought to the world.