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SHAPING A SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE FUTURE IN PRECIOUS METALS

By WILMA SWARTS, Chairperson of Women in PGMs

The Women in Platinum Group Metals (WiPGMs) Association is reshaping the PGM industry. With a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, WiPGMs brings together women from across the precious metals sector, encompassing mining, refining, market analysis, and PGM product fabrication. Founded in 2019, WiPGMs recently celebrated its fifth anniversary, marking a period of remarkable growth and impact. Expanding by 67% last year, the association now comprises 212 members worldwide, each playing a pivotal role in driving a more balanced and equitable industry.
Singapore Bullion Market Association
Women in PGMS Round Table in Tokyo.
WiPGMs operates with a dual mission: to empower women within the industry and to bridge gender disparities that have historically hindered women’s advancement to senior technical and leadership roles. As a dynamic network, WiPGMs fosters collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. Its programmes and events provide members with invaluable opportunities to connect with industry experts, share insights, and build a community committed to growth and innovation.
The expansion in partnership with Moving Ahead to introduce a cross-company mentorship programme reflects WiPGMs’ commitment to creating long-lasting change. This programme pairs aspiring women in PGMs with senior industry leaders, providing them with critical insights to accelerate their careers and leadership development.
WiPGMs enjoys strong support from leading sponsors such as Johnson Matthey and Anglo American Platinum as well as global sponsorship from Metallix, Gerald and Auramet. As Ruth Leland of Johnson Matthey remarked when joining as a sponsor and board member, “Diversity, inclusion, and personal development are at the heart of JM’s values and align closely with the goals of WiPGMs.” In addition, the London Platinum Palladium Association has served as a governance sponsor since the association’s inception. This endorsement strengthens WIPGMs’ mission and provides oversight and guidance to ensure the leadership team focuses on transparent, responsible development.
Beyond expanding its membership and mentorship initiatives, WiPGMs has broadened its geographical reach, hosting events in Cape Town, London, Vienna, Singapore, Shenzhen, and New York. These in-person and hybrid gatherings offer members an unparalleled opportunity to connect, collaborate, and expand their professional networks. Through this global footprint, WIPGMs bridges local insights with international perspectives, enabling its members to adapt and thrive in diverse markets.

FUELLING GROWTH THROUGH COLLABORATION

One of WiPGMs’ core missions is to drive innovation within the PGM sector. By identifying key challenges and bringing together experts to discuss solutions, WiPGMs acts as a catalyst for progress. We believe that progress demands fresh perspectives and collaborative effort, and WiPGMs ensures that women are actively included in this innovation process. The association encourages members to embrace calculated risks, explore entrepreneurial ventures, and champion sustainable practices – all essential for a thriving PGM industry.

OUR MAY 2024 LONDON EVENT HIGHLIGHTED THIS COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION, WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS SHARING INSIGHTS ON GREEN TECHNOLOGIES AND INVESTMENTS SUPPORTING PGMS.

Our May 2024 London event highlighted this commitment to innovation, with industry leaders sharing insights on green technologies and investments supporting PGMs. Penny Freer, chairperson of AP Ventures, discussed her firm’s investments in green solutions that either directly or indirectly utilise PGMs. She emphasised the economic and environmental potential of an industry that benefits from embracing the talents of both men and women, a sentiment that underscores WiPGMs’ mission. Maria Eugenia Paravizzini Perez, head of sustainability for the start-up Jolt, shared her company’s advancements in green chemical production, showcasing the intersection of innovation and environmental responsibility.
Meanwhile, during New York Platinum Week in September 2024, Tracey Swanepoel and Krista Johnson provided insights that resonated deeply with an industry facing tough times during a commodity down cycle. Swanepoel, director of THINKspiration and author of “Leading for Engagement: 7 Sins and 7 Secrets”, spoke about leading during challenging times. Johnson, president of Johnson Matthey in the US, emphasised the importance of engaging beyond company boundaries to make decisions that benefit all stakeholders. Her message underscored the value of building trust and transparency, reinforcing WIPGMs’ dedication to collaboration and stakeholder engagement as essential components of industry resilience.
By offering a platform for such discussions, WiPGMs positions itself as a bridge between academia, industry stakeholders, and government bodies, fostering collaboration that promotes new technologies and sustainable practices. Through its diverse network, the association supports emerging talent and encourages members to contribute to the evolution of the PGM industry. The partnership with Moving Ahead further strengthens WiPGMs’ role in cultivating a pipeline of innovative thinkers and leaders equipped to shape the industry’s future.
In addition to supporting entrepreneurship, WiPGMs has actively participated in several industry forums, such as the Mining Indaba in South Africa and the International Precious Metals Institute (IPMI) Winter Meeting in Orlando. One of the highlights of our calendar is the opportunity to participate in the SMBA’s prestigious annual event, the Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference. These events allow members to network, share their expertise, and engage in discussions on critical topics affecting the PGM industry. By attending these events, WIPGMs not only enhances the visibility of women in the sector but also ensures that they are integral to conversations shaping the future of PGMs.

NAVIGATING CHANGE: EQUIPPING MEMBERS TO ADAPT TO GLOBAL MARKET DYNAMICS

The PGM sector operates within an ever-changing landscape influenced by global market dynamics, fluctuating commodity prices, geopolitical factors, and regulatory pressures on emissions and sustainability. Recognising these complexities, WiPGMs is dedicated to equipping its members with the skills, knowledge, and resilience required to adapt and thrive in this environment. Through its programmes and partnerships, WiPGMs helps women professionals stay ahead of market trends and actively shape the industry’s future.
A key component of this effort is the WiPGMs mentorship programme, which has shown substantial success in preparing women for the challenges and opportunities within the PGM industry. In the 2023/24 cycle, 38 mentees completed the programme, guided by 32 mentors. Feedback from participants highlights the programme’s impact: over 80% of mentees reported their mentors as a valuable source of guidance and support, nearly 50% felt more confident addressing career progression conversations, and 65% felt empowered to tackle complex problem-solving tasks. For 2024/5, the programme has expanded to include 52 mentees and 46 mentors. This phenomenal growth is in part thanks to the collaboration with the IPMI, who generously co-sponsors the mentor programme and extends exposure of the programme to their membership base. The growth is also reflective of WiPGMs’ ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation of female leaders and innovators in the PGM sector.
The expanded mentorship initiative aims to help participants build resilience, hone their problem-solving skills, and develop innovative solutions for industry challenges. WiPGMs’ partnership with Moving Ahead and the 30% Club further enhances the association’s ability to support women’s professional development and broaden their impact within the PGM industry. Through these collaborations, WiPGMs connects its members with a global network of resources and expertise, facilitating knowledge exchange and fostering a sense of solidarity within the international PGM community.
As the sector becomes more interconnected, WiPGMs’ efforts to build cross-border relationships and foster collaboration among its members are invaluable in navigating the complexities of global markets. Looking to the future, WiPGMs is focused on ensuring that its members are equipped to lead in a rapidly evolving industry. By fostering a diverse and supportive community, the association enables women to stay ahead of industry changes, contribute to technological advancements, and drive sustainable practices that benefit society at large.

THE ROAD AHEAD

WiPGMs is more than just an association; it is a transformative force advocating for inclusivity, innovation, and resilience within the PGM industry. By empowering women to break down barriers, drive technological advancements, and adapt to the changing global landscape, WiPGMs embodies the values of collaboration, sustainability, and progress. The association’s initiatives demonstrate the power of community, mentorship, and shared purpose in shaping a future that is both equitable and forward-thinking.
As WiPGMs enters its sixth year, its mission to foster a diverse and supportive network remains as relevant as ever. By connecting women with industry leaders, supporting emerging talent, and promoting a culture of inclusivity, WiPGMs is helping to build a PGM sector that not only meets the demands of tomorrow but also champions the values of today. Through its ongoing efforts, WiPGMs is laying the groundwork for a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future – one that celebrates the contributions of women and the collective strength of a united PGM community.
Singapore Bullion Market Association
WILMA SWARTS, DIRECTOR OF PGM RESEARCH, METALS FOCUS
Wilma Swarts is responsible for all platinum group metal research at Metals Focus with 16 years’ experience in the platinum group metals industry. She has 12 years’ experience in the PGM mining industry focused on metal sales and marketing from her time at Lonmin, where she was Head of Commercial Services. She served as non-executive director on the boards of the Platinum Jewellery Development Association, World Platinum Investment Council and Furuya Metals. She also served as chairperson of The Platinum Incubator from 2016- 2019 and is the current Chairperson of Women in PGMs. Wilma holds a MSc in International Business Administration from the University of London.
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Singapore Bullion Market Association Secretariat-Lee-Jia-Yi

Lee Jia Yi

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Before joining SBMA, Jia Yi worked as an Admin & Reporting Officer in her previous role. She holds a Diploma in Business & Social Enterprise from Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Jia Yi is responsible for managing and maintaining physical and digital files in SBMA, supporting invoicing processes, reconciling receivables and payables, coordinating meetings and conferences. Additionally, she will provide support to the team and assist the Business Director in managing the Association’s office operations and general administrative activities.

SECRETARIAT SBMA-Emily-Oh

Emily Oh

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Emily Oh is the Operations & Admin Executive, a seasoned professional who values teamwork and effective communication. She is skilled at adapting to new challenges and takes a proactive and resourceful approach to every task. Before joining SBMA, Emily had experience coordinating international travel arrangements and spearheading community initiatives. Her role at SBMA will be providing operational and administrative support for projects and other matters to the team.

SECRETARIAT SBMA Clara-Chang

Clara Chang

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS EXECUTIVE
Clara Chang joins SBMA as the Marketing & Communications Executive, enriching the team with her extensive experience in content creation, social media management, and digital marketing. Prior to joining SBMA, Clara held the position of Marketing Executive at her previous job. She holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University at Buffalo, one in International Trade and another in Geographical Information Science. Her core duties will include maintaining the SBMA website, managing the quarterly Crucible newsletter, among other responsibilities.

SBMA Committee-Photo-john-levin

Mr John Levin

Global Metals
TD Securities
John Levin is the Head of Metal Sales & Trading – APAC at the Toronto Dominion Bank’s Singapore office. Prior to this role, he devoted seven years to leading precious metal sales for the ANZ banking group in his home country, Australia. Notably, from 2009 to 2011, John played a significant role on the management committee of the London Bullion Market Association while serving as the Head of Precious Metals Sales for HSBC Global Banking and Markets in the UK.

SBMA Secretariat-Fabian-Lew

Fabian Lew

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Fabian was a Business Development and Marketing Associate before joining SBMA. He graduated from Singapore Management University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

He has joined SBMA since February, 2022.

SBMA-margare-secretariat

Margaret Wong

BUSINESS DIRECTOR

Margaret Wong, Business Director at SBMA (Singapore Bullion Market Association), brought valuable experience from her previous role at the World Gold Council (WGC). Her tenure at WGC provided her with extensive exposure to the gold community in Singapore and the broader region. This background has been instrumental in establishing strong working relationships within the industry.

Margaret’s role at SBMA encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities. She oversees office management, business support processes, finance, and administrative functions essential for the smooth operation of the team and management committee. Additionally, Margaret handles membership matters, member communications, and addresses public inquiries related to SBMA.

One of Margaret’s key responsibilities is coordinating with the Event Management Company for SBMA’s prestigious annual event, the Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference. This flagship conference plays a crucial role in the industry, making her involvement pivotal in its success.

Described as resourceful and self-motivated, Margaret Wong brings a wealth of skills and experience to her role at SBMA, ensuring efficient operations and effective engagement within the precious metals community in Singapore and beyond.

SBMA-Albert-secretariat

Albert Cheng

Chief Executive Officer

Albert Cheng joined the World Gold Council in March 1993 as a Regional Manager, becoming Managing Director, Far East in 2003. He retired at the end of March 2015 and was subsequently named its Advisor. He has also been an International Advisor to the Shanghai Gold Exchange since 2002.

His marketing career began with Dentsu Young & Rubicam, Hong Kong in the early 80’s. He began gold marketing in July 1985 when he joined the Royal Canadian Mint as a Regional Manager for Southeast Asia.

He was appointed honorary CEO of SBMA in November 2015. He is responsible for the success and strategic development of SBMA, represents the interests of the Association, and is responsible for all the legal and regulatory aspects of the work of the Association. He is the primary contact for regulators and government bodies on bullion market development.

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

CEO
YLG Bullion Singapore Pte Ltd

Pawan is the CEO of YLG Bullion Singapore and founder of YLG Bullion International. She has almost 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry and established YLG in Thailand in 2003. In 2012, she brought YLG to Singapore. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Thailand Gold Traders Association, the Thailand Futures Exchange’s Arbitration Committee, and the Rotary Bangkok committee. She holds a master’s degree in Political Science.

SBMA-Shaokai-Fan

Mr Shaokai Fan

Head of Asia-Pacific (ex China) and Global Head of Central Banks
World Gold Council
Shaokai Fan is the Global Head of Central Banks at the World Gold Council, responsible for advising governments on gold matters, and enhancing the gold market through engagement, dialogue, and thought leadership. He works directly with central banks and sovereign wealth funds on investment considerations. Prior to this position, Shaokai held multiple roles at Standard Chartered Bank, including Director for Asia Strategic Initiatives and Associate-Director for Public Sector coverage. Shaokai holds a Masters of Public Administration from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, and an undergraduate degree in finance and economics from New York University.

SBMA-Committee-Alan-Liew

Mr Alan Liew

Head of Bullion & Commodities Trading
United Overseas Bank Limited
Alan is Head of Bullion and Commodities Trading for Group Trading in Global Markets, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Alan joined UOB and started the bank’s commodities trading business in 2014, previously he spent eight years in Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) trading both precious and base metals. During his tenure at SCB, he obtained the SGE gold trader licence and was part of the pioneering team for the SGE business and the FX quantitative trading team. Prior to trading, he worked for Monetary Authority of Singapore in the Financial Risk Management Division. He holds a BSc (Hon) in Computer Science at National University of Singapore and a MSc in Financial Engineering at Nanyang Technological University.

SBMA-Committee-Nikos

Mr Nikos Kavalis

Managing Director
Metals Focus Singapore Pte Ltd
Nikos Kavalis is a founding partner of Metals Focus. He has over 20 years of experience in precious metals, having previously worked for the Royal Bank of Scotland and GFMS. Since September 2019, Nikos has been based in Singapore, where he also runs the local subsidiary of Metals Focus.

SBMA-Committee-khun nuttapong

Mr Nuttapong Hirunyasiri

CEO
MTS Gold Global Trading Pte Ltd
Nuttapong Hirunyasiri is the CEO of MTS Gold Group, one of Thailand’s top 10 companies and top 3 bullion companies. He started MTS Gold Group’s first overseas office in Singapore and has been expanding the group business internationally. He focuses on product development and innovation for gold investment, with the aim of being a leader in providing the full suite of gold investment services in the ASEAN region.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Raman-Walia

Mr Raman Walia

Executive Director, Head of Commodities Sales – APAC
JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A.

Raman is Executive Director and Head of Commodities Sales, APAC, for J.P. Morgan. He joined JPMorgan in 2008 in New York, moved to Singapore in 2011, and helped expand the precious metals business in the region. Raman has an MBA from Cornell University, and likes to travel in his spare time.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Andrew-Clarke

Mr Andrew Clarke

Head of Brink’s Global Services
Brink’s Global Services Pte Ltd

Andrew Clarke is the Head of BGS (Brink’s Global Services) for Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. He has held various leadership positions throughout his career in secure logistics and risk management with Brink’s, which started in Hong Kong in 2010. Andrew relocated to Singapore in 2018 to expand the precious metals line of business along with Brink’s portfolio of services and industries.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Kazuya-Naoki

Mr Kazuya Naoki

Head of Metals, Asia
ICBC Standard Bank Plc, Singapore Branch

Kazuya (Kaz) Naoki is the Head of Metals, Asia of ICBC Standard Bank in Singapore and is responsible for the precious & base metals sales and trading in the region. He joined Standard Bank Plc Tokyo Branch in 2008 and was relocated to its Singapore Branch in 2013 whose controlling stake was acquired by the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China in 2015. Prior to joining Standard Bank, Kaz spent 11 years focusing on commodity trading and risk management with Mitsui & Co in Tokyo, Sydney and London. Kaz has been serving on the SBMA Management Committee since 2016.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Vinh-Nguyen

Mr Vinh Nguyen

Head of Precious Metals, Asia
StoneX APAC Pte Ltd

Vinh Nguyen joined StoneX Group in Singapore at the beginning of 2008 and responsible for its APAC precious metals activities since 2019 until now.

SBMA Committee-KL-Yap

Mr KL Yap

General Manager, Singapore Refining Business Unit
Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd
KL YAP is the General Manager of Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd’s Singapore Refining Business Unit. He joined Metalor in 2013, initially in Refining Sales. In 2014, he became Refining Business Unit Manager, leading the development of a new precious metal refinery. KL was Vice Chairman of SBMA from 2017 to 2021, now serving as Chairman. With a degree in business commerce, finance, and marketing, he brings prior experience from refinery and heavy industries.