We are proud to share that Laurisha Bynoe, Senior Mine Geologist at Agnico Eagle, has been named one of Canada International Black Women Excellence (CIBWE)’s 2025 Top 100 Black Women to Watch. This honour celebrates Black Canadian women who demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation and community impact across diverse fields.
Laurisha’s interest in geology began during her childhood in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, where the island’s volcanic landscapes inspired a fascination with the natural world. That early passion laid the foundation for a career spanning more than 14 years and multiple continents – including North and South America, Oceana, Africa and Asia.
Her experience ranges from early-stage exploration to operational leadership, with each phase expanding her expertise and perspective. Among her career milestones is the rare honour of having a geological extension named after her – a testament to her technical contributions and impact in the field.
Today, Laurisha applies her expertise in geometallurgy, geology and project management to advance exploration and production at Detour Lake Mine.
Leadership and Mentorship
Beyond her technical work, Laurisha plays an active role in advancing the profession. She currently serves as Chair of the CIM Toronto Branch and is actively involved in the Dr. Leanne Baker Scholarship Program – an initiative that supports women at Agnico Eagle who show leadership potential or aspire to advance their careers. The program pairs participants with internal mentors and provides financial support for education and professional development. It is open to women across all operating regions, fostering leadership through mentorship, training and growth opportunities.
“I’ve often had people guide me along the way, and I’ve learned so much from those experiences,” Laurisha says. “Now, I want to do the same for others. Seeing someone grow in confidence and skill is incredibly rewarding.”
Through initiatives like CIM, Laurisha helps students enter the industry and build valuable networks. Her involvement in the Leanne Baker Program has also strengthened her own leadership, communication and mentorship skills – lessons she now shares with the next generation of mining professionals.
These efforts reflect Laurisha’s broader goal: to build a more inclusive mining industry where future professionals feel welcome, supported and inspired.
Championing Diversity and Representation
Throughout her career, Laurisha has navigated challenges including bias and barriers.
“You won’t always know everything, and you will face challenges,” she says. “But visibility matters. Recognition like this award shows what’s possible for women who look like me and reminds me of my responsibility to keep creating space for others. Many Black women in mining have told me that seeing me recognized encouraged them to keep going, and that’s the real power of this award.”
Looking Ahead
Now in her fifth year at Detour Lake, Laurisha sees significant opportunities ahead – for professional growth, learning and contributing to Agnico Eagle’s long-term success.
“I value Agnico Eagle’s commitment to knowledge, strong foundations and thoughtful approaches,” she says. “That aligns closely with how I approach my own career.”
As for the legacy she hopes to leave, it’s one rooted in inclusion and impact. “I want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, lifted others up, and helped make the industry more inclusive,” she says. “If the next generation feels more welcome, confident and inspired, then I know I’ve made my mark.”
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About the Black Pearls Gala: Hosted annually by CIBWE, the Black Pearls Gala celebrates the achievements of Black Canadian women across industries. Through tributes, performances and awards, it honours leadership, innovation, and community impact. Laurisha’s recognition was announced on October 25th at the 2025 gala in Brampton, Ontario, an event that brings together leaders, peers and community members to celebrate the achievements and legacies of Black women across Canada.