Westland Mineral Sands (WMS) is proud to highlight the achievements of two amazing interns, Kaira Lourie and Charlotte Sweney, who joined the team in 2024 through our educational and career growth programs.
Kaira, the first recipient of Westland Mineral Sands $32,500 education scholarship for her Bachelor of Science in Geology, is doing an internship during her summer break from university.
“This scholarship has really helped ease the financial burden and allowed me to get hands-on experience in the mining industry. I’ve been busy working at the Nine Mile pilot plant with lab sampling and office work, gaining valuable insights into the mining process,” says Kaira.
Originally from a dairy farm in Hokitika, Kaira is excited to return to the West Coast with new skills that will benefit her community.
Charlotte Sweney, who received the 2024 Development West Coast Tertiary Scholarship, joined our Environmental and Sustainability Team for the summer.
“This internship has been a fantastic step in my career,” says Charlotte, who’s working toward her Bachelor of Environmental Management.
Her role involves monitoring compliance, collecting samples, and contributing to sustainability research.
“Learning about the critical minerals industry and environmental stewardship has been a real highlight. As a West Coaster, I understand the importance of sustainability and look forward to bringing my new knowledge back to my home region.
WMS Managing Director Ray Mudgway says both internships are a great example of WMS’s commitment to supporting the education and growth of young talent, especially from the West Coast.
“By offering these opportunities, WMS not only helps develop the next generation of industry professionals but also contributes to a more sustainable future for both the mining sector and the West Coast community,” says Mudgway.
