Engineer Darío Zegarra, president of the IIMP, encouraged the 37 scholarship recipients to speak up and spread the message of a mining industry committed to development.

Darío Zegarra, president of the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers (IIMP), and Jimena Sologuren, president of the Organizing Committee of PERUMIN 37, welcomed the 37 young professionals who won the first edition of the PERUMIN Scholarship, a program aimed at strengthening the leadership of new generations in the mining sector. 

The virtual ceremony also featured Gustavo De Vinatea, general manager of the IIMP, Homar Lozano, president of the PERUMIN Scholarship; and Felipe Valencia-Dongo, member of the Organizing Committee.

During the opening speech, the president of the IIMP highlighted the diversity of disciplines among the scholarship recipients, stating that “our industry faces challenges on social, environmental, legal, economic, anthropological, and health fronts. For this reason, we need a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach—one that you represent today.”

Zegarra encouraged the young participants to speak up and embrace their roles as agents of change. “You are already agents of change, and we will support you in that process so that you can carry the torch of the sector’s growth. You don’t need to wait until you have many years of experience to start transforming reality. Today, we entrust you with a responsibility: to raise your voices and share the message of a mining industry committed to the country,” he stated.

Jimena Sologuren, president of the Organizing Committee, encouraged the 37 young professionals to make the most of every session they will attend on their way to PERUMIN 37. “I want to congratulate you and ask you to take full advantage of this well-deserved opportunity. Embrace it as a responsibility and help us spread the message that we need to work together to create more opportunities and well-being for all,” she said.

The scholarship recipients, for their part, expressed their gratitude for being chosen among more than 2,000 applicants. Wendy Retamozo, an environmental engineer from Apurímac, shared her excitement: "We are honored to be ambassadors and to gain an understanding that goes beyond the technical aspects. We look forward to speaking about competitiveness, innovation, diversity, territorial development, and the economy."

Daniel Yupanqui, a foreign trade specialist and entrepreneur from Lima, said: "I'm inspired to contribute to the mining sector through my experience and knowledge." Meanwhile, Carla Zaravia, a legal professional from Junín, stated: "I’m thrilled that my professional field is so closely tied to the mining sector."

Finally, Gabriela Ramírez, a representative of Enseña Perú and partner of the PERUMIN Scholarship, explained that the scholarship recipients will participate in various monthly sessions and forums to discuss and apply knowledge. They will also take part in a personalized mentoring program with leaders from the mining industry, among other activities.