The results are in! Ella Bickford and Jung Yi are the proud recipients of the 2023 IAMGOLD scholarships awarded through the Young Mining Professionals Scholarship Fund. Each of them will receive $5,000. The scholarships are designed to support the development of the next generation of mining leaders and encourage more diversity in our industry.
Ella is a Queen’s University student and has been awarded the IAMGOLD Young Female Mining Professionals Scholarship while Jung is a University of British Columbia student and has been awarded the Newcomers to Canada Scholarship. Take a peek at their profile below!
“We are very pleased to grant these two remarkable students
with a $5,000 scholarship each. Ella’s and Jung’s determination to pursue a career in mining has impressed us tremendously, and we are proud to play a part in their journey,” said Kelly Silva, Sr. Manager, Global Talent Acquisition. “Our participation in the Young Mining Professionals Scholarship Fund since its inception in 2018 is a testament to IAMGOLD’s commitment to developing the next generation of mining leaders and encouraging more diversity and inclusion within the mining industry.”
Ella Bickford, Recipient of the Young Female Mining Professionals Scholarship:
- Second-year university student
- Queen’s University
- Studying toward a Bachelor of Applied Science
- Majoring in Geological Engineering
Ella’s commitment to sustainability is truly inspiring. She has actively participated in and led sustainability projects and committees aimed at enhancing sustainable practices at Queen’s University.
Ella’s professional journey started as an Environmental Engineering Technician at ASC Environmental, where she was involved in environmental investigations and remedial site assessments. During the arduous selection process, Ella stood out to the panel for several reasons; she demonstrated critical thinking, strong communication skills and her creativity with the media assignment demonstrated thoughtful ingenuity. Ella’s thorough preparation and relevant questions to each panel member highlighted her passion and dedication.
As Ella looks ahead, she envisions a promising career in mining, with a focus on geological processing, mine remediation and pioneering sustainable innovations.
Jung Yi, Recipient of the Newcomers to Canada Scholarship:
- Third-year university student
- University of British Columbia
- Studying toward a Bachelor of Applied Science
- Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Jung continues to explore where his education will take him in the field of mechanical engineering. His diverse interests include project management in the mining sector, where he seeks to merge his technical expertise with his passion for environment conservation.
Jung enjoyed his internship at BBA Engineering as a Mechanical Consultant Intern. During his internship, Jung gained valuable insights into the complexities of his chosen field, allowing him to define his preferences and dislikes. This experience also broadened his perspective on the role of data analytics within engineering. Consequently, he intends to further his knowledge in this area by pursuing a data analytics certificate.
In Jung, we found not only a deserving student, but also a remarkable talent whose intellectual capacity promises to leave a mark on the field of mechanical engineering.
About the Young Mining Professionals Scholarship Fund
The YMP Scholarship Fund is a not-for-profit organization that helps fund and promote mining and mining-related education to Canada’s next generation of mining leaders. The scholarships are directly granted to the recipients. A total of $200,000 will be awarded through the fund in 2023. IAMGOLD has been awarding grants through the fund since its inception in 2018.