7TH YOUNG PROFESSIONALS CONFERENCE

Submit an Abstract

Abstract submissions are now open!

The Young Professionals ConferenceCommittee is inviting you to submit an abstract for presentation at the Young Professionals Conference Committee 2026.

Why submit an abstract?

• Strengthen your professional reputation.
• Showcase your organisation’s achievements and accomplishments.
• Offer the industry valuable insights, case studies, and expertise.
• Inform stakeholders, including colleagues and researchers, about your accomplishments and progress.
• Create new opportunities for collaboration to benefit the industry.

Submission process

Abstracts will be subject to peer review, the committee will decide whether to accept or decline the submissions. Relevance to the conference theme, accuracy and uniqueness of ideas, contribution significance, and presentation quality are among the selection factors. Download abstract submission template

Authors will be notified in writing of the acceptance of their abstract. Once accepted the author can submit a full paper for review. Download paper guidelines

Please note

• All accepted abstracts will be published in the conference proceedings and presented during technical sessions.
• All presenting authors are required to register and pay for conference attendance prior to publication in the conference proceedings.

Key Dates

Submission of abstracts - 4 May 2026 

Submission of papers - 22 June 2026  

SUBMIT AN ABSTRACT

Topics to be Covered

Technical papers on design, research and development and current practices and processes in the following areas; amongst others:

Sustainable Mining and Processing Practices: This theme could cover topics related to reducing the environmental impact of mining operations, promoting responsible mining practices, and exploring alternative energy sources for mining activities.

Innovation and Technology in the Minerals Industry: This theme could explore the latest advancements in technology and innovation in the mining industry, including robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

Diversity and Inclusion in in the Minerals Industry: This theme could discuss ways to promote diversity and inclusion in the mining industry and how to create a more equitable and inclusive workplace for all employees.

Skills Development and Training: This theme could focus on training and development programs for young professionals in the mining industry, including mentorship, leadership training, and upskilling.

The Future of the Minerals Industry in South Africa: This theme could explore the future of the mining industry in South Africa and the challenges and opportunities that young professionals will face in the coming years.

Social Responsibility in the Minerals Industry: This theme could examine the social impact of mining operations and how companies can promote social responsibility and sustainable community development.

Health and Safety in the Minerals Industry: This theme could explore the latest best practices for promoting health and safety in mining operations and how to create a culture of safety in the workplace.

Who Should Attend

This conference should be of value to all professionals across the entire minerals industry value chain, including:

• All metallurgical fields
• Exploration
• Geology
• Geotechnical engineering
• Leadership/management/government/community
• Mining
• Occupational Hygiene and SHE practitioners
• ICT experts
• Mechanical, electrical/electronic engineers
• Mineralogy

EXHIBITION/SPONSORSHIP

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Companies wishing to sponsor or exhibit should contact the Conference Co-ordinator.

Contact

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Gugu Charlie,
Conferences and Events Coordinator

E-mail: gugu@saimm.co.za
Tel: +27 11 538 0238
Web: www.saimm.co.za