Joanne Lebert joined IMPACT in 2011 and leads the organization’s work to improve how natural resources are managed where security and human rights are at risk. Her work has focused on contributing to responsibly sourced, conflict-free minerals, and she has helped Central African governments launch and implement a regional strategy to tackle conflict minerals.

One of IMPACT’s signature projects is Artisanal Mining Women’s Empowerment Credit and Savings (AFECCOR), which supports women and men in artisanal gold-mining communities to access savings and credit in an effort to promote entrepreneurship and economic security. Through this program, IMPACT raises awareness of gender equality and leads discussions with female members of associations and their partners about household finances to challenge traditional stereotypes and gender roles. IMPACT also provides financial literacy training to women who undertake new entrepreneurial activities around mine sites, accessing credit from their association.

We gratefully thank IMPACT and other organizations committed to the responsible sourcing and production of materials that meaningfully add to the brilliance of the objects and jewels into which they transformed. Learn more about IMPACT’s work by visiting their website at www.impacttransform.org.