Founder of Women in Mining Central America, President of A2J Minerals
From the mountains of Guatemala to the bustling mining conferences of Latin America, Ana Gabriela Juárez carries with her a vision that transcends borders and cultures. Born in Guatemala, raised in Germany, and now living in Toronto, this multilingual environmental scientist speaks German as her first language while championing gender equality across three continents.
Ana’s journey into environmental sciences began with childhood dreams of becoming a veterinarian or biologist, inspired by her love for animals and nature. But it was her family’s environmental consulting business that ultimately shaped her career path. Through dedication and relentless hard work, she contributed to expanding CTA Environmental Consultants from a local operation to a global enterprise with offices in 19 countries across three continents.
“I am driven by my passion for environmental conservation and a commitment to promoting gender diversity in the mining industry,” Ana explains. “My journey has been about following my dreams and pursuing my passions with dedication and hard work.” Her father’s mentorship proved invaluable, providing guidance, support, and belief in her abilities from day one. “Since day one, my father has been my mentor, opened doors, and given me a seat at the table with our clients, and I am extending the same privilege to other women.”
The mining industry’s gender gap became increasingly apparent to Ana as she navigated her career. “There’s a low representation of women in the workforce, especially in Latin America,” she observes. Rather than accepting this status quo, she founded Women in Mining Central America nearly two years ago—an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering women in the mining sector through education, advocacy, and gender equality initiatives.
Her recent appointment as president of A2J Minerals, a Canadian-based private company focused on exploration, alongside her role as non-executive director for Royal Road Minerals, positions her at the forefront of Latin American mining leadership. The recognition of being honored with the “Women of Gold” award validates her tireless efforts to transform an industry traditionally dominated by men.
“The women in the mining industry are some of the most resilient and motivating individuals I have ever met,” Ana reflects. “Their stories have deeply moved me, and I am honored to support and work with them.” Her organization focuses on pioneering initiatives that no other women in mining organizations worldwide have undertaken—a challenging but rewarding endeavor.
Ana’s approach to change is multifaceted, recognizing that attracting more women to mining requires a fundamental shift in perspective across multiple sectors. Her Kids Club Initiative, inspired by her son, aims to educate children about environmental stewardship and geology, promoting a positive outlook on mining’s role in sustainable development.
Looking toward the future, Ana remains open to all possibilities. “I don’t want to put myself in a box, as the plans and opportunities that have come my way are beyond what I could have ever imagined,” she says, emphasizing the importance of seizing every opportunity, even when feeling unprepared.
“I think promoting and empowering women is crucial for the development of Central America’s mining sector. No one accomplishes anything alone. Success requires a team, a community, and a support system.”